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During preparations for the construction of a new skyscraper in London's financial district, archaeologists discovered the remains of a Roman basilica that was part of the forum of ancient Londinium, which existed almost 2000 years ago.
Excavations at Gracechurch Street, 85, where a 32-story office tower is planned to be built, discovered walls and foundations basilicas up to 1 meter wide and 4 meters deep. The building, erected between In 78 and 84 AD., was one of the largest public buildings in Roman London. "This is one of the most significant discoveries in London's oldest quarter", — the archaeologist notes Sophie Jackson із Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA).
The basilica was part of the forumthat was the center of trade, justice, and political life of LondiniumThe discovered remains probably belonged to tribunal – the elevated part, where management decisions were made. "This is the beating heart of the city", - says Andrew Henderson-Schwartz, Head of Public Relations at MOLA.
Further research may reveal reasons for the reconstruction of the forum 20 years after its construction, and found household items such as writing tablets, styluses and other rubbish, will allow you to recreate the daily life of Roman residents of London. Hertshten Properties, the developer of the site, agreed to incorporate the historic remains into the future office complex and create open visitor center, which will allow Londoners and tourists to see "the heart of Rome in London".
