The last Roman Londoner?

The man buried in this stone coffin was born in the late 4th century. Britain had been part of the Roman empire for 300 years, and few people could have imagined life without Roman government. But by the time he died, in the early 5th century, Rome had lost control of Britain, and Saxons were settling around London.

The man was about 5 feet 6 inches (1.68m) tall, and suffered from joint disease in his back. At some stage in his life he broke three ribs, perhaps through a fall or violent blow. They healed well – but as the photograph shows – not in a perfect alignment

Radiocarbon dating tells us that he probably died between AD 390 and 430. He was in his late 30s or early 40s.

The limestone sarcophagus was probably cut to shape near the quarry in Lincolnshire, and transported by boat to London. Its occupant must have been wealthy and highly respected.

The sarcophagus was damaged by builders in the 19th century. Part of the stone was cut away, and the man's skull was removed.