Experts at the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) say that a newly-excavated Roman mausoleum in Southwark, to the south of the City of London, “provides a fascinating window into the living conditions and lifestyle in this part of the city in the Roman period”.

The initial discovery in February 2022 revealed “some of the largest Roman mosaics found in London for over 50 years”. Further excavation has now revealed a monumental mausoleum, which is thought to date back 2,000 years and is said to be “completely unique”.

The mausoleum is also thought to be the oldest ever unearthed in the UK and was uncovered hidden beneath the rubble of building works in the City of London.

Archaeologists say that the monumental mausoleum has low walls, entrance stairs and an interior floor intact.

The floor comprises two mosaics consisting of small red tiles – each has a flower enclosed in a pattern of circles.

The team also uncovered more than 100 coins scattered across the floor.

The team only found the second mosaic after excavating beneath the first one, which, they say, suggests that the mausoleum floor was raised at least once while in use for burials.

No remains or artefacts were uncovered from the main site, but personal possessions such as copper bracelets, coins, glass beads and a bone comb were found nearby in 80 burial sites in the mausoleum.

Lead archaeologist of the site is Antonietta Lerz from The Museum of London Archeology (MOLA).

You can read more about the discovery at the MOLA website, including a video of the site.

Images: copyright MOLA.