AssetID: 54514028
Headline: RAW VIDEO: Remains Of London's First Roman Basilica Discovered In City
Caption: The remains of London’s first Roman Basilica have been uncovered in the middle of the City of London. The ruins were found beneath 85 Gracechurch Street, near Leadenhall Market. The discovery, made by the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA), once formed part of the political and commercial heart of Roman London. The Basilica, constructed during the late 70s or 80s AD under the governorship of Agricola, was the centrepiece of the Roman Forum, serving as a hub for governance, trade, and public gatherings. Situated on elevated ground, the structure once spanned an area comparable to a football pitch, with the Basilica likely standing over two storeys high. In front of it, an open courtyard would have bustled with markets and civic activity, mirroring the commercial nature of the modern City. MOLA’s excavation revealed remarkably well-preserved foundations, some measuring over 10 metres long, 1 metre wide, and 4 metres deep. Experts believe the remains belong to the Tribunal, a raised platform where magistrates and officials would have made critical decisions shaping the city’s development. Despite previous knowledge of the Basilica’s location, the extent of its survival was unknown due to centuries of subsequent construction. The new findings present an exceptional opportunity to showcase London’s Roman heritage. Plans are now underway to incorporate the remains into a permanent public display as part of a redevelopment project at 85 Gracechurch Street. If approved, this would be the only publicly accessible site showcasing London’s first Roman Basilica. Ron Hertshten, CEO of Hertshten Properties, expressed excitement about integrating the Basilica into the new development. “This discovery offers a world-class opportunity to connect Londoners and visitors with the city’s Roman past,” he said. “With the expertise of MOLA, London Museum, and Woods Bagot, we are committed to creating an immersive experience that complements the historic character of Leadenhall Market.” Sophie Jackson, Director of Development at MOLA, described the find as one of the most significant in recent years. “It’s akin to discovering the Speaker’s Chair of the House of Commons 2,000 years into the future,” she said. “We are eager to continue our investigations and collaborate on an engaging public space that brings this history to life.” The City of London Corporation has welcomed the discovery, seeing it as a vital link in the Square Mile’s historical narrative.
Keywords: MOLA,feature,romans,london,city of london,video
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