Archaeologists in London have unearthed the ruins of a nearly 2,000-year-old Roman basilica beneath an office building at 85 Gracechurch Street, marking one of the city’s most significant discoveries. The basilica was part of London’s original forum, serving as a hub for commerce, politics, and social life.

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• A Roman basilica, dating back to around 80 C.E., was discovered under an office building at Gracechurch Street.
• The basilica was part of London’s original forum, functioning as a political, commercial, and social gathering place.
• Archaeologists unearthed large pieces of Roman masonry, including limestone foundation walls.
• The basilica’s preserved structure is much larger than anticipated, with a footprint nearly the size of an Olympic swimming pool.
• The discovery includes a roof tile stamped with an official city mark.
• Built shortly after the Roman invasion, it was one of the earliest significant structures in Londinium.
• The basilica was replaced by larger buildings after only 20 years due to Londinium’s growing population.
• The modern building construction will be adapted to preserve the ruins, including reducing the tower’s height.
• The site is set to feature a publicly accessible museum showcasing the Roman ruins.
• This discovery is part of a broader history of Roman artifacts found beneath London, such as the Temple of Mithras and a rare Roman mausoleum.