‘A moment of pride’: Most intact Roman tomb ever to be discovered in Britain found in Southwark

An incredibly rare Roman tomb has been uncovered following an excavation at a site in Southwark.

It has been described as the most intact Roman tomb ever to be discovered in Britain, with experts calling it “completely unique”.

It was uncovered at The Liberty of Southwark development in Southwark Street, a stone’s throw away from Borough Market and London Bridge railway station.

Antonietta Lerz, senior archaeologist at the Museum of London Archaeology, who led on the dig, said: “This relatively small site in Southwark is a microcosm for the changing fortunes of Roman London.

“From the early phase of the site where London expands and the area has lavishly decorated Roman buildings, all the way through to the later Roman period when the settlement shrinks and it becomes a more quiet space where people remember their dead.

“It provides a fascinating window into the living conditions and lifestyle in this part of the city in the Roman period.”

The remains of the tomb include the walls and interior flooring.

The site is being redeveloped as The Liberty of Southwark, a complex of offices, homes and shops in a joint venture by Landsec and Transport for London.

At the centre of the tomb is a striking mosaic surrounded by a raised platform, on which the burials were placed.

Archaeologists said the mausoleum would have been used by wealthier members of Roman society. It may have been a family tomb or perhaps belonged to a burial club, where members would have paid a monthly fee to be buried inside.

More than 100 coins were also discovered and the area immediately surrounding the mausoleum contained more than 80 Roman burials, which included personal items such as copper bracelets, glass beads, coins, pottery and even a bone comb.

Southwark councillor Catherine Rose said: “The rediscovery of this Roman mausoleum and mosaics is a testament to the rich tapestry of our past.

“It is a moment of pride for Southwark, as we pay homage to the ingenuity and artistic brilliance that graced our borough in the Roman times.

“We are extremely grateful to the archaeologists, historians and all those involved in unearthing these extraordinary remnants.

“As a council we are committed to preserving and promoting these archaeological treasures, ensuring that they are accessible to the local community and beyond for generations to come.”

Pictured top: Archaeologists working on the newly-discovered Roman tomb (Picture: MOLA)