London's 'Lasagne' of History: Uncovering the City's Ancient Secrets
London, a bustling metropolis with a rich historical tapestry, is akin to a culinary masterpiece, as revealed by TV presenter and academic Prof. Alice Roberts. The city's constant evolution, marked by the demolition of blocks and buildings to make way for new developments, has unearthed a treasure trove of archaeological discoveries.
In recent years, London has unveiled its earliest theatre, the first basilica, and a rare mausoleum near the Shard, alongside a luxurious Roman villa. But it's the 20 colorful frescoes, found smashed into 10,000 pieces in a Roman pit, that take center stage in the new BBC Two series, 'Digging for Britain'.
Prof. Roberts, the show's host, describes the excitement of witnessing these discoveries as they emerge from the earth. The team, led by the Museum of London Archaeology (Mola), uncovered a unique signature on one of the fresco pieces, a rare pigment that hints at the artist's identity.
Sophie Jackson, the group's director of development, reflects on the thrill of working in London, where the past is layered upon itself. Unlike other archaeological sites, London's layers must be 'unpacked in the reverse order they happened'.
The city's waterfronts, in particular, have yielded remarkable findings. The construction of the Bloomberg European headquarters unearthed thousands of Roman objects, including what's believed to be the UK's oldest handwritten document. Jackson explains that the site's proximity to the waterfront allowed archaeologists to study the changing population, with early inhabitants traced back to Gaul.
These discoveries have led to the theory that Roman London was divided into distinct zones or quarters, each home to different nationalities. For instance, north Southwark boasts a Gaulish tradition, while other areas house various groups.
The choice of dig sites is influenced by planned developments. London's historic core, the Square Mile, often proves most productive for archaeologists. Jackson expresses a desire to explore beneath Upper and Lower Thames Street, where Roman waterfronts and medieval buildings await discovery.
Despite the allure of uncovering ancient secrets, the Mola team's work in Wapping last year revealed a 'little microcosm of a whole community'. Tonnes of objects, from Roman times to Victorian periods, were found in former cesspits and brick-lined wells, challenging the notion of Sailor Town as overcrowded and dangerous. This discovery showcases the diverse nature of the area's inhabitants.
Alex Banks, a senior archaeologist, describes the work in Wapping as a departure from the typical TV portrayal of archaeology. Instead of gentle brushwork, they employ diggers and machinery, ensuring meticulous recording and care.
In 2024, Banks was part of a team that unearthed what's believed to be the first Roman bed found in Britain, at an ancient cemetery in Holborn. This rare find, dating back almost two millennia, is currently being treated and prepared for further study and display.
Jackson emphasizes the significance of archaeology in connecting people to their place in London's 2,000-year-old history, offering a visceral connection to the past through tangible artifacts.
