Wessex Archaeology has released its first online video showing the remarkable excavation of a rare Roman coffin.
The limestone coffin, weighing three metric tonnes was discovered as part of the excavation of a Roman cemetery containing over 300 burials next to a substantial Roman settlement on Boscombe Down in 2007.
When archaeologists lifted the lid off the coffin they were surprised to discover that it had not filled with soil. Instead, they looked down on the skeleton of a woman who was cradling a young child in her arms.
The video captures the excitement of the significant discovery – and the exhilaration of the team as they realise the unique environment within the coffin had allowed the preservation of the leather and cork slippers of the lady, as well as the child’s calf skin shoes.
