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Yahoo
17-07-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Tower of London dig unveils possible links to Black Death
The first major excavation at the Tower of London in 30 years has uncovered what experts believe could be a Black Death burial site, hidden for centuries beneath the chapel where Anne Boleyn is buried. Archaeologists have found the remains of at least 20 individuals beneath the Chapel of St Peter Ad Vincula, including a collection of burials from the 14th century in what could have been a mass grave. Wiping out around three million people, out of an estimated six million in England at the time, the Black Death swept the country in the 14th century. Alfred Hawkins, curator of historic buildings at Historic Royal Palaces (HRP), which manages the Tower of London, described the findings as a 'generational opportunity to enhance our understanding of the evolution of the Chapel of Saint Peter ad Vincula and the buildings which stood before it'. Some of the remains, from the 12th and 13th centuries were buried in coffins, which HRP says may indicate 'high-status' burials. Alongside the coffins, a fragment of a burial shroud was found, an exceptionally rare discovery as textiles often do not survive in such conditions. Two further burial sites have also been discovered that contain 13th century charcoal pots, similar artefacts have only been found once before at an archaeological site elsewhere in England. The dig also unearthed signs of three successive chapels constructed on the site, with evidence of fire damage, medieval stonework, and rare artefacts dating back to the reign of Henry I in the 12th century. Carried out ahead of the installation of a new lift to improve accessibility to the chapel, the excavation was approved and monitored by Historic England. Dr Katie Faillace, an archaeologist based at Cardiff University's School of History, said: 'The new excavations provide the opportunity to transform our understanding of the Tower's community. 'Our work uses a biomolecular technique known as isotope analysis, which tells us about health, diet and mobility in the past, all from a tiny fragment of a tooth. 'This cutting-edge method has unparalleled potential for reconstructing the experiences of the people who lived and died at the Tower, allowing us to build a rich picture of individuals' lives.' The dig is the first major one of its kind on this specific part of the Tower, and enables a redrawing of the map of the medieval fortress which attracts almost three million visitors a year. Dr Jane Sidell, principal inspector of ancient monuments at Historic England, welcomed the findings. She said: 'Together we've struck a balance between creating lift access to a fascinating part of the Tower of London, with the complexity of carefully managing a hugely significant and archaeologically rich site.' She added: 'We're already gaining insight into the residents of the Tower in a way we have never been able to do before. 'But this is just the tip of the iceberg – there is so much more to learn through further analysis about the people as well as the buildings of one of England's most evocative historic monuments.' Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Telegraph
17-07-2025
- Science
- Telegraph
Tower of London dig unveils possible links to Black Death
The first major excavation at the Tower of London in 30 years has uncovered what experts believe could be a Black Death burial site, hidden for centuries beneath the chapel where Anne Boleyn is buried. Archaeologists have found the remains of at least 20 individuals beneath the Chapel of St Peter Ad Vincula, including a collection of burials from the 14th century in what could have been a mass grave. Wiping out around three million people, out of an estimated six million in England at the time, the Black Death swept the country in the 14th century. Alfred Hawkins, curator of historic buildings at Historic Royal Palaces (HRP), which manages the Tower of London, described the findings as a 'generational opportunity to enhance our understanding of the evolution of the Chapel of Saint Peter ad Vincula and the buildings which stood before it'. Some of the remains, from the 12th and 13th centuries were buried in coffins, which HRP says may indicate 'high-status' burials. Alongside the coffins, a fragment of a burial shroud was found, an exceptionally rare discovery as textiles often do not survive in such conditions. Two further burial sites have also been discovered that contain 13th century charcoal pots, similar artefacts have only been found once before at an archaeological site elsewhere in England. The dig also unearthed signs of three successive chapels constructed on the site, with evidence of fire damage, medieval stonework, and rare artefacts dating back to the reign of Henry I in the 12th century. Carried out ahead of the installation of a new lift to improve accessibility to the chapel, the excavation was approved and monitored by Historic England. Dr Katie Faillace, an archaeologist based at Cardiff University's School of History, said: 'The new excavations provide the opportunity to transform our understanding of the Tower's community. 'Our work uses a biomolecular technique known as isotope analysis, which tells us about health, diet and mobility in the past, all from a tiny fragment of a tooth. 'This cutting-edge method has unparalleled potential for reconstructing the experiences of the people who lived and died at the Tower, allowing us to build a rich picture of individuals' lives.' The dig is the first major one of its kind on this specific part of the Tower, and enables a redrawing of the map of the medieval fortress which attracts almost three million visitors a year. Dr Jane Sidell, principal inspector of ancient monuments at Historic England, welcomed the findings. She said: 'Together we've struck a balance between creating lift access to a fascinating part of the Tower of London, with the complexity of carefully managing a hugely significant and archaeologically rich site.' She added: 'We're already gaining insight into the residents of the Tower in a way we have never been able to do before. 'But this is just the tip of the iceberg – there is so much more to learn through further analysis about the people as well as the buildings of one of England's most evocative historic monuments.'
The Irish Sun
16-07-2025
- General
- The Irish Sun
Tower of London mystery as archaeologists unearth 50 human bodies from ‘rushed' burials in ‘biggest dig' in 4 decades
ARCHAEOLOGISTS have uncovered the remains of up to 50 people in the Tower of London. Historians believe that many of bodies were likely to be those of victims of the Black Death. 3 The remains of 50 people have been uncovered as part of an excavation dig at the Tower of London (stock image) Credit: Getty Built in the 11th century, the Tower of London is widely regarded as one of Britain's most iconic landmarks. Originally the formidable fortress of William the Conqueror, the location has a nearly thousand-year history. Over the centuries, it has served as a royal palace, a prison, an armoury, a treasury, and even a zoo. A major excavation project is currently underway near the Chapel Royal of St. Peter and Vincula, a corner of the grounds near the White Tower. Read More On Archaeology The dig is part of preparatory works to install a lift to improve accessibility to the chapel. However, during the dig on the oldest part of the complex, a major discovery was made behind an unsuspecting plywood door. The project, which is the biggest excavation done at the castle in 40 years, uncovered dozens of bodies within the foundations laid down over many centuries. Up to 50 bodies uncovered Historians believe the bones belong to ordinary people who lived and worked at the Tower, rather than the Lords and Ladies who once inhabited it. Most read in Science Alfred Hawkins, curator of historic buildings at Historic Royal Palaces, described the project as "hugely important". 'At the palace we have evidence for what Henry VIII did and what Edward I did — but what we don't know about is people who were living, working, worshipping, and dying at the Tower," he told 'Once in a century' Pompeii discovery as ancient luxury SPA is saved from ashes with thermal baths & stunning mosaic The site is also the final resting place of famous figures throughout British history, including Thomas More, Anne Boleyn, and Catherine Howard, all of whom were executed on Henry VIII's orders. Recent excavation works have explored some three and a half metres underground, revealing parts of the castle that date to the 12th century and the Tower's beginnings. 'It is literally a generational opportunity. Historic Royal Palaces (HRP) have never done an excavation like this and we won't do it again,' Hawkins added. He clarified that the HRP was running the dig with Pre-Construct Archaeology, an independent firm, with advice from Historic England. A test dig was carried out six years ago, uncovering two bodies but now there are said to be at least 25 burials in the area running the width of the chapel. Now, the remains of as many as 50 people are believed to have been uncovered. Despite the Tower's infamous history with brutal deaths, including the beheadings of Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, and Lady Jane Grey, it appears these bodies did not have a violent end. 3 Historians have suggested that the bodies may be those of early victims of the Black Death Credit: HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES/PRE CONSTRUCT ARCHAEOLOGY Victims of the Black Plague Historians believe that some of the bodies may have been early victims of the plague. They cited how the burials appear to have been 'rushed' and estimate they date from the 14th century. This would mean the burials occurred before Edward III implemented strict rules regarding the handling of the plague dead. DNA testing will show if they died from the Black Death, which reached London in 1348. Caused by the bubonic plague, the was spread by fleas carried by rats and had a devastating impact on the city. Within months, the Black Death killed up to half of London's population. Graveyards were overwhelmed and basic city services collapsed as a result. 3 Assistant Curator Alfred Hawkins described the discovery as a 'generational opportunity' Credit: Historic Royal Palaces Other bodies unearthed in the dig appear to have been treated more carefully, with one of the discoveries including grave goods in the form of jars akin to incense burners. These were filled with charcoal, which was a custom derived from Norman Europe. According to experts, this may indicate a member of the ruling class or a foreign traveller. Two Tudor bodies were uncovered in the vicinity in 2019, including a woman, aged between 35 and 50, whose burial in a coffin suggested high status. This theory has been backed by isotopic analysis that suggests she had a good diet. Her remains were found alongside those of a boy of about 13, who appears to have been born outside London and was unwell. Archaeologists have also discovered stained and painted glass, sewing needles, a pendant, a ring, and four cannon balls at the site. More on archaeology The And the Plus, the An ancient lost city from 3,500-years-ago that played home to the oldest civilization in the Americas' was uncovered in Peru. And
Scottish Sun
16-07-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
Tower of London mystery as archaeologists unearth 50 human bodies from ‘rushed' burials in ‘biggest dig' in 4 decades
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) ARCHAEOLOGISTS have uncovered the remains of up to 50 people in the Tower of London. Historians believe that many of bodies were likely to be those of victims of the Black Death. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 The remains of 50 people have been uncovered as part of an excavation dig at the Tower of London (stock image) Credit: Getty Built in the 11th century, the Tower of London is widely regarded as one of Britain's most iconic landmarks. Originally the formidable fortress of William the Conqueror, the location has a nearly thousand-year history. Over the centuries, it has served as a royal palace, a prison, an armoury, a treasury, and even a zoo. A major excavation project is currently underway near the Chapel Royal of St. Peter and Vincula, a corner of the grounds near the White Tower. The dig is part of preparatory works to install a lift to improve accessibility to the chapel. However, during the dig on the oldest part of the complex, a major discovery was made behind an unsuspecting plywood door. The project, which is the biggest excavation done at the castle in 40 years, uncovered dozens of bodies within the foundations laid down over many centuries. Up to 50 bodies uncovered Historians believe the bones belong to ordinary people who lived and worked at the Tower, rather than the Lords and Ladies who once inhabited it. Alfred Hawkins, curator of historic buildings at Historic Royal Palaces, described the project as "hugely important". 'At the palace we have evidence for what Henry VIII did and what Edward I did — but what we don't know about is people who were living, working, worshipping, and dying at the Tower," he told The Times. 'Once in a century' Pompeii discovery as ancient luxury SPA is saved from ashes with thermal baths & stunning mosaic The site is also the final resting place of famous figures throughout British history, including Thomas More, Anne Boleyn, and Catherine Howard, all of whom were executed on Henry VIII's orders. Recent excavation works have explored some three and a half metres underground, revealing parts of the castle that date to the 12th century and the Tower's beginnings. 'It is literally a generational opportunity. Historic Royal Palaces (HRP) have never done an excavation like this and we won't do it again,' Hawkins added. He clarified that the HRP was running the dig with Pre-Construct Archaeology, an independent firm, with advice from Historic England. A test dig was carried out six years ago, uncovering two bodies but now there are said to be at least 25 burials in the area running the width of the chapel. Now, the remains of as many as 50 people are believed to have been uncovered. Despite the Tower's infamous history with brutal deaths, including the beheadings of Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, and Lady Jane Grey, it appears these bodies did not have a violent end. 3 Historians have suggested that the bodies may be those of early victims of the Black Death Credit: HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES/PRE CONSTRUCT ARCHAEOLOGY Victims of the Black Plague Historians believe that some of the bodies may have been early victims of the plague. They cited how the burials appear to have been 'rushed' and estimate they date from the 14th century. This would mean the burials occurred before Edward III implemented strict rules regarding the handling of the plague dead. DNA testing will show if they died from the Black Death, which reached London in 1348. Caused by the bubonic plague, the was spread by fleas carried by rats and had a devastating impact on the city. Within months, the Black Death killed up to half of London's population. Graveyards were overwhelmed and basic city services collapsed as a result. 3 Assistant Curator Alfred Hawkins described the discovery as a 'generational opportunity' Credit: Historic Royal Palaces Other bodies unearthed in the dig appear to have been treated more carefully, with one of the discoveries including grave goods in the form of jars akin to incense burners. These were filled with charcoal, which was a custom derived from Norman Europe. According to experts, this may indicate a member of the ruling class or a foreign traveller. Two Tudor bodies were uncovered in the vicinity in 2019, including a woman, aged between 35 and 50, whose burial in a coffin suggested high status. This theory has been backed by isotopic analysis that suggests she had a good diet. Her remains were found alongside those of a boy of about 13, who appears to have been born outside London and was unwell. Archaeologists have also discovered stained and painted glass, sewing needles, a pendant, a ring, and four cannon balls at the site. More on archaeology The remains of a lost Roman city have been uncovered on a popular holiday island. And the lost tomb of a 1,700-year-old king was uncovered in Mayan temple. Plus, the eerie "hybrid" skull that belonged to a "half human, half neanderthal girl". An ancient lost city from 3,500-years-ago that played home to the oldest civilization in the Americas' was uncovered in Peru. And AI has deciphered a hymn on a 4,000-year-old clay tablet, which is said unlock the mystery of the ancient city of Babylon.
The Sun
16-07-2025
- General
- The Sun
Tower of London mystery as archaeologists unearth 50 human bodies from ‘rushed' burials in ‘biggest dig' in 4 decades
ARCHAEOLOGISTS have uncovered the remains of up to 50 people in the Tower of London. Historians believe that many of bodies were likely to be those of victims of the Black Death. Built in the 11th century, the Tower of London is widely regarded as one of Britain's most iconic landmarks. Originally the formidable fortress of William the Conqueror, the location has a nearly thousand-year history. Over the centuries, it has served as a royal palace, a prison, an armoury, a treasury, and even a zoo. A major excavation project is currently underway near the Chapel Royal of St. Peter and Vincula, a corner of the grounds near the White Tower. The dig is part of preparatory works to install a lift to improve accessibility to the chapel. However, during the dig on the oldest part of the complex, a major discovery was made behind an unsuspecting plywood door. The project, which is the biggest excavation done at the castle in 40 years, uncovered dozens of bodies within the foundations laid down over many centuries. Up to 50 bodies uncovered Historians believe the bones belong to ordinary people who lived and worked at the Tower, rather than the Lords and Ladies who once inhabited it. Alfred Hawkins, curator of historic buildings at Historic Royal Palaces, described the project as "hugely important". 'At the palace we have evidence for what Henry VIII did and what Edward I did — but what we don't know about is people who were living, working, worshipping, and dying at the Tower," he told The Times. 'Once in a century' Pompeii discovery as ancient luxury SPA is saved from ashes with thermal baths & stunning mosaic The site is also the final resting place of famous figures throughout British history, including Thomas More, Anne Boleyn, and Catherine Howard, all of whom were executed on Henry VIII's orders. Recent excavation works have explored some three and a half metres underground, revealing parts of the castle that date to the 12th century and the Tower's beginnings. 'It is literally a generational opportunity. Historic Royal Palaces (HRP) have never done an excavation like this and we won't do it again,' Hawkins added. He clarified that the HRP was running the dig with Pre-Construct Archaeology, an independent firm, with advice from Historic England. A test dig was carried out six years ago, uncovering two bodies but now there are said to be at least 25 burials in the area running the width of the chapel. Now, the remains of as many as 50 people are believed to have been uncovered. Despite the Tower's infamous history with brutal deaths, including the beheadings of Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, and Lady Jane Grey, it appears these bodies did not have a violent end. 3 Victims of the Black Plague Historians believe that some of the bodies may have been early victims of the plague. They cited how the burials appear to have been 'rushed' and estimate they date from the 14th century. This would mean the burials occurred before Edward III implemented strict rules regarding the handling of the plague dead. DNA testing will show if they died from the Black Death, which reached London in 1348. Caused by the bubonic plague, the was spread by fleas carried by rats and had a devastating impact on the city. Within months, the Black Death killed up to half of London's population. Graveyards were overwhelmed and basic city services collapsed as a result. 3 Other bodies unearthed in the dig appear to have been treated more carefully, with one of the discoveries including grave goods in the form of jars akin to incense burners. These were filled with charcoal, which was a custom derived from Norman Europe. According to experts, this may indicate a member of the ruling class or a foreign traveller. Two Tudor bodies were uncovered in the vicinity in 2019, including a woman, aged between 35 and 50, whose burial in a coffin suggested high status. This theory has been backed by isotopic analysis that suggests she had a good diet. Her remains were found alongside those of a boy of about 13, who appears to have been born outside London and was unwell. Archaeologists have also discovered stained and painted glass, sewing needles, a pendant, a ring, and four cannon balls at the site. More on archaeology The remains of a lost Roman city have been uncovered on a popular holiday island. And the lost tomb of a 1,700-year-old king was uncovered in Mayan temple. Plus, the eerie "hybrid" skull that belonged to a "half human, half neanderthal girl". An ancient lost city from 3,500-years-ago that played home to the oldest civilization in the Americas' was uncovered in Peru. And AI has deciphered a hymn on a 4,000-year-old clay tablet, which is said unlock the mystery of the ancient city of Babylon.
