‘Spectacular’ archaeology breakthrough as remains of a late-Roman woman discovered in Essex and set to go on display

A high-status woman from the late Roman period has been unearthed at the site of the former Essex County Hospital in Colchester, with archaeologists describing the find as "spectacular".

The individual, dubbed the "Lexden Lady", was interred in an ornate lead coffin at the Lexden Road location, where construction of 120 homes is currently underway.

The burial came to light during the concluding phase of excavation work at the development site.

Archaeologists from the Colchester Archaeological Trust have been examining the remains, which represent one of the most significant Roman discoveries in the city for some time.

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The woman's remains were accompanied by a collection of precious objects, including hairpins crafted from jet and uncommon glass vessels.

Scientific examination of residues within the coffin revealed the presence of frankincense and gypsum, providing insight into post-mortem rituals performed on the deceased.

One of the glass containers held traces of exotic resins, further demonstrating the elaborate care taken in preparing her body for burial.

Researchers believe the interment was meticulously arranged, with each element suggesting considerable wealth and social standing.

The combination of these funerary items paints a picture of sophisticated burial practices in Roman-era Colchester.

Adam Wightman, the trust's director of archaeology, said: "This is one of the most fascinating Roman burials we have worked on in Colchester in recent years."

He added: "The decorated coffin is a beautiful object in its own right.

"But it is the combination of the coffin, the grave goods and the scientific evidence that makes this burial so compelling."

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Robert Masefield, archaeology director at Tetra Tech Consulting Ltd, described the discovery as "the most spectacular" he had encountered throughout decades of excavating Roman burial sites.

."The young woman was clearly cherished by her family and by her community," he added.

The Lexden Lady and her decorated coffin will go on public display at Colchester's Roman Circus visitor centre this Saturday.

Analysis of her remains suggests she was aged between her late twenties and early thirties when she died, and experts believe she may have spent her formative years in Colchester itself.

The exhibition will showcase not only the physical artefacts but also the findings from scientific studies that have shed light on how she lived.

Visitors will have the opportunity to view the display for the next twelve months.

A section of Roman road was also uncovered at the same Lexden Road site back in 2021.

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