Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of at least 73 individuals in Buckingham, England, at a medieval cemetery believed to have been used for executed criminals.
Medieval Execution Cemetery Unearthed in Buckingham
The remains, comprising approximately 40 men and boys, were first discovered in 2018 at West End Farm, on Brackley Road, during preparatory work for a development project. Buckinghamshire Council confirmed the latest report detailing at least 73 individual bodies across 34 graves.
Analysis of the burials revealed that 26 skeletons were found with their hands tied behind their backs. The burials were predominantly of adult males, with some juveniles and adolescents, but no females were identified.
Further examination of the remains showed signs of childhood stress, healed fractures, and diseases such as tuberculosis. A limited number of artifacts were recovered, suggesting valuables were likely removed from the bodies before burial. Two buckles were found – one dating to the late Roman period and another to the post-medieval period.
Carbon dating of one skeleton places its age in the late 13th Century. The unusual layout of the graves, the lack of grave goods, and the evidence of bound hands strongly suggest the site served as an execution cemetery, a historically rare type of burial ground used for criminals.
These sites were often located on parish boundaries and represent a marginalized segment of medieval society, according to Buckinghamshire Council. Councillor Peter Strachan, responsible for planning and regeneration, stated the discovery offers a rare glimpse into the county’s past.
Post-excavation analysis is now underway, with results to be published to ensure a comprehensive record of the discovery. Further research will continue to enhance understanding of the site, the individuals buried there, and life in Buckinghamshire during the Saxon and medieval periods.
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