A 1930s office building in London was set to be demolished until archaeologists discovered remnants of the city’s first Roman basilica in its basement.

Built around 80 AD, the basilica was part of Londinium’s forum and served as a key site for political and commercial decisions.

The discovery, located at 85 Gracechurch Street, is one of Britain’s most significant Roman finds.

Archaeologists uncovered well-preserved walls, Roman pottery, and tiles, including one stamped with ‘London,” NBC News has reported.

The site will be incorporated into new office building plans and opened to the public for an immersive experience of Roman London.

Written by B.C. Begley