Hundreds of Bodies Recovered from Ancient 'Execution Cemetery'

The remains of nearly 100 bodies have been discovered at an ancient cemetery which archaeologists believe was the site of an extensive execution operation (per Bucks Free Press).

The ghoulish site was first discovered in Bucks, England, in 2018, but excavations and further analysis only recently concluded. A report submitted to theBuckinghamshire Historic Environment Record earlier this month revealed that, even after almost a decade of investigative work, researchers were unable to determine the order and layout of the execution site.

A total of 73 bodies were found dispersed among 34 graves. Twenty-six of the deceased had their hands tied behind their back. Most of the bodies belonged to adult males. A few of the deceased were juveniles and adolescents, but none were women. An analysis of the bones revealed that the deceased suffered from a plethora of ailments, such as healed fractures; childhood stress injuries; and diseases like tuberculosis.

Site Notably Lacked Artifacts

The site boasted a notable lack of artifacts, indicating that all valuables were removed before burial. However, carbon dating on two belt buckles found at the site revealed that one dated back to the late Roman period while the other the late Medieval period. Carbon dating on one of the skeletons revealed it to be from the late 13th century. Along with the lack of valuables, the bound hands of the deceased and the bodies’ peculiar placement in an east-west formation indicates that the site was used as an execution cemetery.

“Our archaeology team has worked tirelessly to ensure this remarkable site was properly investigated,” said Bucks councillor Peter Strachan, Cabinet Member for Planning and Regeneration. "The discovery of what is likely a medieval execution burial ground offers a rare glimpse into Buckinghamshire’s past.”

Strachan added: "We are committed to preserving and sharing these findings with the local community so that everyone can appreciate the depth of our county’s history. I thank members of the local community and local councillors in Buckingham for their tireless interest in this site—this dedication has helped to maintain momentum in discovering so much more about what happened to these people in our past.”

The council will next oversee the burials’ post-excavation analysis, after which the results of the discovery will be published. Strachan and the researchers hope that further work will continue at the site, providing greater insight into ancient life in Buckinghamshire.