A supply-base (c. AD 43–52)

Abstract

The archaeology of the first permanent settlement of London is described. New roads were laid out c. AD 48 leading to a site that may have served as a supply-base on the north bank of the Thames. This was set out following a grid-plan around a central area where the forum was later established. Various features illustrate the importance of the managed traffic of military supplies. The topographic, ritual, and political importance of the Thames crossing at London Bridge is stressed, and the evidence of foundation burials and deposits associated with the early layout of the settlement summarized.