Archaeologists Identify Rare Medieval Execution Cemetery in Buckinghamshire

Archaeologists Identify Rare Medieval Execution Cemetery in Buckinghamshire
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Archaeologists have uncovered more than 70 bodies at a medieval burial site believed to have been used for executed criminals near Buckingham, a discovery that sheds new light on medieval justice practices, the BBC reported.
The remains were found at West End Farm on Brackley Road during archaeological work carried out ahead of a planned development.
Initial excavations in 2018 revealed about 40 skeletons, while subsequent investigations have raised the total to at least 73 individuals buried across 34 graves, according to Buckinghamshire Council. Experts say most of the remains belong to adult males, with some juveniles and adolescents also identified.

No female skeletons were found. Many of the bodies were laid in an east–west orientation, though the site shows no clear burial order. Notably, 26 skeletons were discovered with their hands bound behind their backs, a detail archaeologists say strongly supports the interpretation of the site as an execution cemetery.

Scientific analysis indicates the burials date back to at least the late 13th century. Skeletal evidence points to signs of hardship, including childhood stress, healed injuries, and diseases such as tuberculosis. Only a few artefacts were recovered, suggesting personal belongings were removed before burial.

Local officials described the find as a rare insight into a marginalised group in medieval society. Further post-excavation research is planned to deepen understanding of the site and the lives of those buried there.