Monument record 11333 - Possible Pre-fourteenth Century Gate, Abbey Square Gateway

During 2012 excavations at the Abbey Square gateway of the Chester Cathedral precinct, a structure made of large sandstone blocks in ashlar construction was recorded at 1.2m below ground level (1). The structure was thought (by the excavators) to have been a potential precursor gateway to the standing fourteenth century gateway, although no finds were associated with the structure or related deposits. The excavators also suggested that there was a possibility the structure might represent in situ Roman remains (1). Please note that there is some disagreement between the city archaeologist and the excavators regarding this monuments interpretation, and that the former believe that a Roman date is likely.

<1> L - P Archaeology, 2013, Archaeological Watching Brief Report for land at Chester Cathedral, R3422 (Client Report). SCH7025.