Archaeological Discoveries at Medieval Leprosy Hospital in England

Archaeologists in England have discovered new remains at one of the country’s oldest medieval leprosy hospitals. The excavation took place at South Common in Lincoln, a historic city approximately 140 miles north of London. This site once hosted the Hospital of the Holy Innocents, founded in the late 11th or early 12th century.

Uncovering History

The recent three-day excavation, reported by Jam Press, was conducted by the British television program “Time Team.” Researchers revealed traces of medieval walls and possible living quarters. The hospital operated for nearly 500 years, accommodating up to 20 leprosy patients, officials stated. This builds on earlier excavations where volunteers unearthed walls, surfaces, and artifacts from the former hospital.

This time, archaeologists found traces of small, square structures that might have served as living quarters or enclosed yards for patients. These structures had not been excavated before. The findings provide insight into the lives of leprosy patients during the Middle Ages, indicating who could afford care.

You had to have resources to enter the hospital, similar to securing a place in a private care facility today, according to Professor Carenza Lewis from the University of Lincoln.

Historical records suggest that patients lived in separate structures with small yards. Lewis noted that these areas were likely individual buildings with enclosed plots of land.

Impact of Leprosy

Leprosy, known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic bacterial infection affecting skin, nerves, and eyes. If untreated, it causes severe disfigurement but is treatable with antibiotics today. The Hospital of the Holy Innocents once housed leprosy patients and highlights the historical impact of the disease.

Ongoing Research

This excavation is part of a three-year research project led by Anglia Ruskin University. The goal is to learn more about the people who lived and worked at this medieval hospital. Tim Taylor, “Time Team” creator, expressed that Lincoln’s archaeological history is significant, and this site offers a chance to explore it further.

The discovery in Lincoln follows a similar find last year in York, England. A sinkhole revealed remains from one of northern England’s largest medieval hospitals, believed to be St. Leonard’s Hospital, dating back to the 12th or 13th century.