Archive · 23 Dec 2025
Archaeologists Uncover Mediaeval Graves at Tower of London
Archaeologists have found over 20 old graves and special items at the Tower of London.
These graves are from a long time ago, between the 12th and 14th centuries.
Some people might have died from a sickness called the plague.
They also found pieces of old buildings and special things like burial cloths and pots with charcoal.
This helps us learn more about the people who lived and died there a long time ago.
The work was done to make the chapel more accessible to visitors.
Archaeologists uncovered over 20 previously unknown burials near the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula at the Tower of London.
The burials date from the 12th to 14th centuries, with some possibly linked to a plague outbreak.
Four burials were found in coffins, suggesting the individuals may have had high social status.
Rare grave goods, including burial shrouds and pots with charcoal, were discovered.
The excavation was conducted to facilitate the installation of a new lift for visitor access to the chapel.
- Who
- Archaeologists and researchers from Historic Royal Palaces
- What
- Uncovered more than 20 previously unknown burials and artifacts
- When
- During recent excavations, with findings dating back to the 12th-14th centuries
- Where
- Near the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula at the Tower of London
- Why
- To conduct archaeological investigations before installing a new lift for visitor access
- Location
- Tower of London, near Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula
- Number of Burials
- More than 20
- Periods Represented
- 12th to 14th century
- Significant Finds
- Burial shrouds, pots with charcoal, remains of earlier buildings
- Project Oversight
- Historic Royal Palaces