Archaeologists uncover medieval leprosy hospital quarters in Lincoln

Archaeologists working at South Common in Lincoln have identified previously unknown features of the Hospital of the Holy Innocents, one of England's oldest leprosy hospitals. The short excavation uncovered traces of medieval walls and small, square structures that appear to have served as individual quarters or enclosed yards for patients. Historical records indicate the hospital, founded in the late 11th to early 12th century, could accommodate up to 20 leprosy sufferers, possibly segregated by wealth, as suggested by the separate curtilages.

Professor Carenza Lewis of the University of Lincoln explained that admission likely required resources, likening it to a private care home. The investigation is part of a three-year research programme coordinated by Anglia Ruskin University and involves the television team behind "Time Team." Similar discoveries were made last year in York at the presumed site of St. Leonard's Hospital.