Roman building uncovered in London - 3rd March 2025

Plans for a new tower block in London's City district have had to be reworked. This follows the discovery of a 2,000 year old basilica from ancient Rome.

Archaeologists had known of the basilica's existence since October 2023. However, it was only in recent weeks, following further digging, that details of the size and quality of the Roman site emerged. For Sophie Jackson, Director of Development at Museum of London Archaeology (MoLA), "This is one of the most significant discoveries made in the city in recent years."

Believed to be the first such building in Roman Britain, from CE 70-80, the basilica would have been an enormous, roofed structure. It was used for public gatherings and court hearings, as well as a centre for social and commercial activity. For the developers, Hertshten Properties, it's "a monumental piece of London's history."

Discovered in the basement of an existing office block, MoLA archaeologists dug out the basilica's foundations and walls. It was the size of a modern-day football pitch and would have stood 2-3 storeys high. Despite this, due to the rapid expansion of Roman London, or Londinium, it was demolished four decades later and replaced by a basilica five times the size.

Jackson explained, "This building will tell us so much about the origins of London, why London grew and why it was chosen as the capital of Britain. It's just amazing."

Plans for the tower block will now be amended to preserve this extraordinary find. Two storeys have been removed from the architectural project which will avoid the need to place pillars into the Roman remains. Meanwhile, new proposals for the redevelopment, designed in partnership with the London Museum, will include a public exhibition area and also an immersive experience for visitors.