Medieval Leprosy Hospital Yields New Archaeological Discoveries

Archaeologists in England have unearthed new remains at one of the country's oldest and largest medieval leprosy hospitals, shedding light on the lives of those afflicted by the disease centuries ago. The recent excavation, conducted by the British television program “Time Team,” focused on South Common in Lincoln, the site of the Hospital of the Holy Innocents, founded between the late 11th and early 12th centuries.

During a three-day dig, researchers discovered remnants of medieval walls and potential living quarters. These findings build upon an excavation from the previous year, which uncovered walls, building surfaces, and artifacts connected to the former hospital. The hospital, which operated for nearly 500 years, could house up to 20 leprosy patients at a time.

This latest excavation revealed traces of small, square features that archaeologists believe may have been individual living quarters or enclosed yards for patients. These structures have not been excavated previously, offering a rare glimpse into the living conditions of leprosy patients during the Middle Ages.

Professor Carenza Lewis of the University of Lincoln suggested that admission to the hospital likely required financial resources, comparing it to modern private care homes. Historical records indicate that patients may have resided in separate buildings, each with a small yard, or 'curtilage.'

Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the skin and nerves. While it can cause disfigurement if untreated, it is curable with antibiotics and still exists today.

The ongoing excavation is part of a three-year research project led by Anglia Ruskin University, aiming to gather more information about the individuals who lived and died at the medieval hospital. Tim Taylor, creator of “Time Team,” stated that the site holds the potential to reveal significant aspects of Lincoln's archaeological history.

This discovery follows a similar find in York, England, last year, where a sinkhole exposed the remains of St. Leonard's Hospital, believed to date from the 12th or 13th century.