Medieval Dungeon Discovered Beneath Leicester Market
Archaeologists have found remnants of a medieval dungeon under Leicester’s market square, which was once referred to as the “vilest prison.” This discovery was made by the University of Leicester Archaeology Service (ULAS) during their excavation of the new Market Square site. The dungeon likely belonged to Gainsborough Chambers, a civic edifice first mentioned in 1533.
One surviving complaint from a prisoner of that era illustrates the grim conditions. The individual mentioned being sent to “the meanest prison called Gainsoborough,” lacking basic comforts like a bed or companionship. Dr. Gavin Speed, who leads the ULAS team, remarked, “I think we can safely assume that it wasn’t very comfortable.”
The chamber, which served various functions until its demolition around 1748, was used for judicial duties, mayoral activities, feasts, and other celebrations. The recently uncovered thick stone walls highlight the building’s architectural significance. “Leicester is one of the most archaeologically studied cities in the country, but this area has been relatively untouched until now,” Speed noted.
The excavations have also revealed 2,000 years of human activity. Among the findings was a tomb of a Roman infant beneath the floor of a timber building dating back nearly 1,800 years. Speed commented that while this behavior might seem odd from a modern perspective, it likely made sense to the Romans.
In addition, the ULAS team discovered Roman pottery, medieval market surfaces paved with stones, and evidence of two Roman buildings at the site. The first was a timber structure that contained the infant burial. Later, stone buildings were erected directly above it. Notable artifacts, such as Roman tesserae, pottery, coins, and jewelry, were also associated with these stone structures.
Mayor Peter Soulsby expressed that these findings illustrate the site’s historical significance over the ages. “ULAS is collaborating with contractors to gather as much information as possible from the site. We hope to showcase some of the archaeologists’ extraordinary discoveries for public enjoyment,” he remarked.
