73 bodies found at medieval burial site in Buckingham
Investigations into the site show evidence of executions dating back to the 13th century
A newly released report has shed light on a medieval burial site in Buckingham, offering an extraordinary glimpse into a cemetery thought to date back to the 13th century.
The site was first uncovered in 2018 during archaeological evaluations ahead of planned developments. Since then, Buckinghamshire Council’s archaeology team has worked closely with partners to investigate and analyse the significance of the remains.
According to the report, which has been submitted to Buckinghamshire Historic Environment Record, 73 individual bodies have been found across 34 graves at the site. Researchers noted unusual burial practices, with some skeletons showing signs of bound hands. Most of those buried were adult men, though juveniles and adolescents have also been identified. No female skeletons were discovered.
Further investigations revealed signs of childhood stress, healed fractures, and illnesses such as tuberculosis. Grave goods were scarce, with just two items recovered: a buckle from the late Roman period and another from the post-medieval period. Carbon-dating a skeleton provided a date in the late 13th century.
The lack of artefacts, unusual burial techniques, and evidence of bound hands suggest the site was likely an execution cemetery, historically used for criminals. Researchers noted that such grounds were typically located along key routes or parish boundaries.
Buckinghamshire Council’s archaeology team was instrumental in monitoring fieldwork, liaising with contractors, and managing excavation reports, ensuring the site was meticulously recorded for future understanding.
Councillor Peter Strachan, Cabinet Member for Planning and Regeneration, said: “Our archaeology team has worked tirelessly to ensure this remarkable site was properly investigated.
"The discovery of what is likely a medieval execution burial ground offers a rare glimpse into Buckinghamshire’s past. 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 next stage in the investigation involves post-excavation analysis and publishing results to ensure a detailed record of the discovery is available.
Researchers are continuing to study the site to deepen the understanding of Buckingham’s past and the lives of those buried during the Saxon and medieval periods.