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Medieval leprosy hospital walls unearthed in Lincoln
4 Oct
Summary
- Archaeologists found walls of an early English leprosy hospital.
- The hospital housed up to 20 people with leprosy in the late 11th century.
- Unprecedented square features for housing were discovered at the site.
Archaeologists from Time Team have uncovered the remains of a medieval leprosy hospital in Lincoln, believed to be one of England's earliest and largest. The dig on the South Common focused on the site of the Hospital of the Holy Innocents.
This hospital, dating back to the late 11th to early 12th centuries, likely accommodated up to 20 individuals suffering from leprosy. Researchers discovered previously unexcavated square features believed to be housing structures, marking a significant find.
The discovery is part of a larger, three-year project supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The hospital's remains were initially identified last year during a Local Landscapes and Hidden Histories project.
Over 100 volunteers participated in test pit excavations, which led to the uncovering of what are thought to be the medieval boundary walls of the historic hospital complex. This project promises further insights into medieval life and healthcare.
