Exploring Kent's Past

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Monument details

Summary

In the 13th century, structure L13 was constructed on the site. A number of clay floors and ovens were excavated within the building. 81 pits dating to this time were also excavated most predated the structure. Slightly later, in 15th century, structure L14 was built.

Monument Types

• OCCUPATION SITE (Early Medieval or Anglo-Saxon to Medieval - 410 AD to 1539 AD)

Full description

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Between July and October 1982 The Canterbury Archaeological Trust excavated upon the site of the current 1-6 and 10-11 Marlowe Arcade prior to redevelopment of the area. The sitecode was MT82.
The earliest features dated to the pre- and Roman period. At the end of the Roman period a deposit of 'dark earth' built up over the area. Signs of occupation were represented by structures S30-2, which cut the latest Roman street metallings and the dark earth deposit. A gap in occupation then seems to have occurred with little evidence other than pits being found until into the Norman period. During this time the Roman structures were substantially robbed for stone.

In the 13th century, structure L13 was constructed on the site. A number of clay floors and ovens were excavated within the building. 81 pits dating to this time were also excavated most predated the structure. Slightly later, in 15th century, structure L14 was built. Later activity had truncated the building and no floor levels survived. It is thought to have been a latrine or possible have had some industrial use as it was associated with a pit and chute. A number of pits and some clay quarries were also dug at this time within area MT, as was a well.

Post Medieval features included some masonry walls a group of shallow post-holes and a scatter of pits and some cellars. The earlier well was still and use and modified with a lead draw pipe. The Marlowe Theatre was built on the site in the middle of 19th century and was finally closed in 1982.

Andrews, G., 1985, The Archaeology of Canterbury: An Assessment (Unpublished document). SKE30429.

Blockley, K., Blockley, M., Blockley, P., Frere, S. and Stow, S., 1995, Excavations in the Marlowe Car Park and Surrounding Areas. Part 1: The Excavated Sites (Monograph). SKE29969.

Sources and further reading