The Roman stone coffin being removed on the A47. (Image: National Highways)
Workers discovered an Ancient Roman tomb that was unearthed during roadworks in Cambridgeshire.
The artefact is predicted to have remained untouched for over 1,500 years. Following the initial discovery, a team from Headland Archeology dug up the 1,650 lb (750 kg) find.
The incredible coffin was found near the A47 road as National Highways works turned the single-lane road into a dual carriageway. Upon digging, a Roman cemetery was discovered, much to the workers’ delight.
The archaeologists lifted the tomb out of the ground using engineering skills and historical preservation techniques, and it remarkably was recovered fully intact.
Chris Griffin, who leads the National Highways program in the east region, told Archeology News: “While our main focus has been on building a road to improve journeys for road users, it’s been extremely satisfying to play a part in uncovering such an unusual archaeological find.”
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The Roman Tomb under excavation. (Image: National Highways)
A plan is underway in the UK to ensure the recording and safekeeping of old or historic items found during roadworks or other construction.
Expert teams like Headland Archaeology are partnering with National Highways to protect potential treasures.
Mr Griffin said: “At National Highways we take great care in recording and safeguarding the country’s heritage that is uncovered by our works. Archaeology belongs to the communities we serve and by working alongside Headland Archaeology, we are delighted to be able to conserve and protect this incredible find for future generations.”
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David Harrison, the project manager from the team who dug up the ancient tomb, called the coffin “a fascinating find” for the area.
“Its careful excavation and recording, both in the field and the laboratory, allows us to continue to learn how our Roman ancestors lived and died,” he added.
The archaeological discovery will take centre stage in the new season of ’s Digging for Britain, which aired January 7.
The new season highlights some of the most important finds from the past year across the country, with the Roman tomb being one of the most unique discoveries in 2024.