Great Britain Under Monarchy in 2075
MetaculusFeb 23, 2023
Ancient Roman Basilica Found Under London Office Block
story
Above: Gracechurch Street, London on Jan. 21, 2021. Image copyright: Thomas Krych/Contributor/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
The Facts
Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of London's first Roman basilica, dating back 2K years, beneath 85 Gracechurch Street in the capital. The basilica features substantial walls and foundations made from flint, ragstone, and Roman tile.
The discovery includes a tribunal section — an elevated platform where magistrates and political leaders made decisions about London's governance. Some wall sections reportedly extend over 32 feet long and 13 feet deep.
The basilica, built in the late 70s or 80s AD, was London's original civic center and the largest building of its type north of the Alps. It served as the political, judicial, and commercial hub of Roman London.
The Spin
Narrative A
This discovery is a crucial piece of London's ancient heritage that will, thankfully, be preserved and showcased to the public. It offers unprecedented insights into the city's Roman origins and early governance structure, and adds to the growing network of accessible Roman sites in London.
Narrative B
Integrating these remains into the development requires significant architectural modifications, including reducing height and relocating structural elements. These modifications could impact the project's commercial viability and create a monoculture of glass towers that risk eroding the area's historic character. Under current plans, it's not certain this relic will be effectively protected.
