A Roman history enthusiast expressed that she was ‘astonished’ upon learning that she was working just a few feet above a newly unearthed historical site where London was managed over 2,000 years ago.
Developers constructing an office building in the City of London stumbled upon one of the most significant archaeological discoveries ever made in the capital.
The basilica served as a meeting place for the leaders of Londinium, as it was designated by the Romans, to discuss crucial political and economic matters.
The remains of this structure, which functioned as the city hall in its era, were located beneath 85 Gracechurch Street, near Monument, and meticulously excavated by the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA).
Aman Kaur, a reception supervisor at the building, holds a deep appreciation for Roman history and was taken aback to discover that she was indeed working directly above one of the most vital buildings in the annals of the Roman Empire in Britain.
She shared with Metro: ‘I was completely surprised. I adore Roman history and to think there were the remnants of such a significant structure right below me.
‘It was exhilarating. The archaeologists allowed me to have an exclusive peek once they had secured the site. I was among the first to witness it.
‘The individual accompanying me unearthed an ancient wine bottle down there during my visit. It was simply astonishing.
‘I was always fascinated by history in school, particularly Roman history, and being a small part of this narrative is incredibly meaningful.
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‘Who would have imagined I was so near to this prominent structure while simply going about my usual workday?’
The excavation of the building, which was founded under Roman Emperor Titus, has currently revealed portions of stone walls that comprised the foundation of the basilica, which would have towered two-and-a-half stories high.
The upcoming demolition and redevelopment of the office building were guided by earlier archaeological surveys indicating the potential location of the ancient basilica.
Several small exploratory pits were established to investigate what lay beneath the concrete flooring, and on the third effort, excavating between filing cabinets led them to discover the anticipated findings.
Outside
The structure, which utilized Kent limestone partially, was envisioned to feature a forecourt along with shops and a public area equivalent to the dimensions of a football field.
If approved, the location will be accessible to the public as part of the new office project by Hertshten Properties.
Sophie Jackson from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) remarked, ‘This establishment will reveal a wealth of information about London’s origins, the reasons behind its expansion, and its selection as the capital of Britain.
‘It’s truly remarkable. It served as the hub for commerce, the venue for resolving court cases, the site where laws were enacted, and where critical decisions influencing London and the wider country were made.’
James Taylor from the architectural firm Woods Bagot mentioned adjustments were made to accommodate the historical structure.
He stated, ‘Basic changes, such as relocating the columns, were necessary to ensure the preservation of these significant stones that we unearthed.’
‘Experiencing people utilizing and relishing the space, flowing through the public hall, and descending to view the remnants will be absolutely amazing.’
Other Roman discoveries in London have captivated the public’s fascination.
Sections of an amphitheater can be viewed beneath a glass floor at the Guildhall Art Gallery.
Visitors can also explore the Temple of Mithras, another shrine located in the Square Mile.
Chris Hayward of the City of London Corporation commented, ‘The notion that Roman London lies just beneath us is, without a doubt, a remarkable feeling to experience.
‘You can truly visualize and comprehend what Roman London would have looked like during that era.’
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