Archaeologists from the Museum of Archeology London (MOLA) have discovered an “incredibly rare” and well-preserved Roman mausoleum near London Bridge Central Station.
In February 2022, researchers found fragments of mosaics in this area and concluded that something much larger could be hiding in deeper layers of the terrain.
His assumptions were confirmed. During excavations, archaeologists unearthed what they described as “the most intact Roman mausoleum” ever found in the UK, “with an astounding level of preservation,” according to a MOLA statement.
Museum of London Archaeology
They found the walls, front steps, and interior ceilings of the building. The central mosaic panel was surrounded by a raised platform on which tombs were placed.
Under the mosaic, the researchers noticed another one. Their pattern was similar: a flower in the center and concentric circles around the edges.
The mausoleum was a two-storey building that was probably built for a wealthy Roman family. No coffins have been found, nor human remains, which archaeologists say were removed from there in the Middle Ages. However, 80 tombs and a large number of ancient artefacts, including pottery, jewellery, coins and glass beads, survive at the site.
Museum of London Archaeology
Antonietta Lerz, senior archaeologist at MOLA, said the site is a “microcosm of the changing fortunes of Roman London” and offers “a fascinating glimpse” into the lives of its residents.
Museum experts have created a three-dimensional model of the site and are working to determine the mausoleum’s age while preparing plans for its future public display.