The remains were discovered during the construction of the railway.
Archaeologists discovered 425 bodies in a late Roman cemetery in southern England, including about 40 beheaded skeletons.
The discovery was uncovered by a team of roughly 50 archeologists during a dig near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, on the route of the multi-billion pound high-speed train link that is presently under construction, according to HS2.
Around 10% of the bodies had their heads cut off. Many had their heads between their legs or adjacent to their feet.
Archaeologists speculated that the beheaded bones may have been misfits or criminals, despite the fact that decapitation was a “normal, albeit marginal, burial rite” throughout the late Roman Empire.
The unearthed remains will be studied by the experts over the following few years, providing an opportunity to learn more about Roman civilization’s past habits, diets, and beliefs.
“All human remains uncovered will be treated with dignity, care, and respect and our discoveries will be shared with the community,” said Helen Wass.
The crew also discovered over 1,200 coins, as well as various lead weights, showing that this was a trade and business location.
In addition to the usual suspects like spoons, pins, and brooches, the site also revealed gaming dice and bells, indicating the presence of both secular and religious pursuits.
From 43 until 410 CE, the Romans ruled Britain.
“The excavation is significant in both enabling a clear characterization of this Roman town but also a study of many of its inhabitants,” added Richard Brown, Senior Project Manager.
Since the construction of the HS2 line from London to Birmingham began in 2018, more than 100 archaeological sites have been discovered.
Through their excavation work, archeologists have been able to find a wealth of information about life in Roman Britain nearly two thousand years ago.
Image Credit: HS2
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