Hundreds of dismembered skeletons found during construction work on HS2

A team of around 50 archaeologists have made the startling discovery of decapitated Roman skeletons during an ongoing excavation at Fleet Marston, near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.

Archaeologists digging along the HS2 high-speed rail line have made a chilling discovery of 40 decapitated Roman skeletons.

The dismembered bodies were found with their skulls between their legs and were among 425 bodies.

The team of around 50 archaeologists made the discovery during an ongoing dig at Fleet Marston, near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, The Express reported.

One possible explanation for the unusual find is that the decapitated skeletons may have belonged to criminals or outcasts.

However, the bones will need to undergo proper analysis before a full conclusion can be drawn.

This will be supplemented by scholars who hope to uncover new insights into Roman civilization.

It is understood that while beheading may be a horrific act in modern times, the Romans saw it as a “normal, albeit marginal, funeral rite” in the late Roman period.

Over 1,200 coins and several lead weights were also found at the site, which may suggest that the excavated area was once a thriving place for trade and commerce.

And a treasure trove of household objects including spoons, pins and brooches was also discovered.

Gambling dice and bells have also been found, which could mean that the Romans played here and participated in religious activities.

Helen Wass, Heritage Manager at HS2 Ltd, said: “The HS2 Archeology program has enabled us to learn more about our rich history in Britain.

“The large Fleet Marston Roman Cemetery will allow us to get a detailed look at the people of Fleet Marston and the wider Roman landscape of Britain.

“Any human remains discovered will be treated with dignity, care and respect and our findings will be shared with the community.”

Richard Brown, Senior Project Manager for COPA, said: “The excavations are important both to allow a clear characterization of this Roman city but also a study of many of its inhabitants.

This excavation lasted over a year and was carried out by a team from Cotswold Archeology and Oxford Archeology (Copa).

They were working on behalf of an HS2 subcontractor.

And that’s not the only shocking discovery archaeologists have made along the HS2 line.

In fact, Fleet Marston is just one of more than 100 archaeological sites that have been excavated since 2018.