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Archaeologists have uncovered over 70 bodies at a medieval burial site believed to have been used for executed criminals. The initial discovery took place in 2018 at West End Farm on Brackley Road in Buckingham, revealing the remains of approximately 40 males and boys dating back to at least the 13th century. This significant find emerged during preparatory work ahead of planned development in the area.
According to Buckinghamshire Council, recent investigations have identified at least 73 individual skeletons scattered across 34 graves. The burials display no precise ordering, though most bodies were laid out in the traditional east-west alignment. Notably, 26 of the skeletons were found with their hands bound behind their backs, reinforcing the idea that these individuals were likely executed criminals. The group consists mainly of adult males, along with some juveniles and adolescents, while no female remains have been recorded.
Further examination of the remains indicated evidence of childhood stress, healed bone fractures, and illnesses such as tuberculosis. Only a few artefacts were recovered from the site, implying that personal valuables were taken before burial. Among the limited finds were two buckles: one dating from the late Roman period and another from the post-medieval era. Carbon dating of one skeleton placed it in the late 13th century, providing a timeframe for the cemetery’s use.
Peter Strachan, Buckinghamshire Council’s councillor for planning and regeneration, described the site as “likely a medieval execution burial ground” that offers a rare glimpse into the county’s history. The unusual burial layout, absence of grave goods, and evidence of hand bindings support this interpretation. Execution cemeteries such as this one, often positioned on parish boundaries, tend to represent a marginalized portion of medieval society. Ongoing analysis and research will ensure that the findings are thoroughly documented and provide greater insight into life during the Saxon and medieval periods in Buckinghamshire
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