The remains of a Roman mausoleum of “amazing security” have been discovered in London. It is considered the most intact structure of its kind discovered in Great Britain.
The “incredibly rare” find was discovered on The Liberty of Southwark development, next to Borough Market and London Bridge station. The Guardian writes about it.
The excavation of the tomb follows the discovery last February of one of the most extensive Roman mosaics to be found in London in more than 50 years at the same site. The find includes walls and interior ceilings. In its center is a striking mosaic, surrounded by an elevation on which the burials were located. The lowest entrance stairs have also been preserved.
The level of preservation of the interior makes this Roman mausoleum the most intact ever discovered in Great Britain, according to the Museum of London Archeology (MOLA), which led the archaeological research.
There are plans for an upcoming public display of the mausoleum, which has undergone significant changes. The second mosaic, located directly below the first, indicates that it was erected during his lifetime. The two mosaics are similar: the central flower is surrounded by concentric circles.
Although the tomb was almost completely dismantled, probably during the medieval period, there are indications that it was a substantial building, possibly two stories high, and must have been used by the wealthier Romans, perhaps as a family tomb.
Although no coffins or burial remains were found, more than 100 coins were found, as well as pieces of metal, fragments of pottery, and several roof tiles. More than 80 Roman burials have been discovered in the area around the mausoleum, including copper bracelets, glass necklaces, coins, pottery, and even a bone comb.