A new report into burials at a historical site in Buckingham has been published, unearthing a fascinating insight into the extraordinary find which dates back to at least the 13th century.

The site, which appeared to hold a large number of historic human remains, was first discovered in 2018, when archaeological evaluation work was carried out on the site ahead of development.

Buckinghamshire Council’s archaeology team took the lead on liaising with partners to begin the process of carrying out investigations and analysis into the precise date and significance of the finds.

The latest report, submitted to the Buckinghamshire Historic Environment Record (HER) confirms that at least 73 individual bodies have been found across 34 graves. No clear order or layout has been discovered. Most burials were in a traditional east-west position, but many were placed in unusual ways. Most strikingly, 26 skeletons were found with their hands tied behind their backs. The burials were predominantly adult males, with some juveniles and adolescents, but no females were identified.

Further analysis revealed signs of childhood stress, healed fractures, and diseases such as tuberculosis. Only a small number of artefacts were found at the site. This suggests valuables were removed before burial. Two buckles were recovered, one dating to the late Roman period and one dating to the post-medieval period. Carbon-dating of one skeleton provided a date in the late 13th century

The unusual layout, lack of grave goods, and evidence of bound hands strongly suggests this was an execution cemetery, a rare type of burial ground historically used for criminals. These sites, often located on routeways or parish boundaries, represent a marginalised sector of medieval society.

Buckinghamshire Council’s archaeology team played a vital role throughout this project. The team liaised with contractors, monitored fieldwork, advised on next steps, and approved excavation reports for inclusion in the Historic Environment Record. Without this involvement, the site would not have been discovered, excavated, or accurately recorded.

Councillor Peter Strachan, Cabinet Member for Planning and Regeneration, said:

“Our archaeology team has worked tirelessly to ensure this remarkable site was properly investigated. The discovery of what is likely a medieval execution burial ground offers a rare glimpse into Buckinghamshire’s past. We are committed to preserving and sharing these findings with the local community so that everyone can appreciate the depth of our county’s history.

I thank members of the local community and local councillors in Buckingham for their tireless interest in this site – this dedication has helped to maintain momentum in discovering so much more about what happened to these people in our past.”

The next step is for post-excavation analysis to be completed and the results published, to ensure a proper record of the discovery is made. Further research will continue to enhance understanding of the site, the individuals buried there, and life in Buckinghamshire during the Saxon and medieval periods.