The Phoenix Initiative, Coventry’s Millennium project, has awarded an important archaeological contract for the excavation of the city’s original 13^th century Cathedral, to Northamptonshire Archaeology Unit.

Northamptonshire, who were in competition with many other large units from across the country for the £250,000 contract, have a proven track record in dealing with complex urban archaeology sites.

Work on the site just off Priory Row, opposite holy Trinity Church is planned to start in mid-April, following the demolition of Holy trinity Community Centre. It is expected to take about 6 months.

The archaeology of this site is integral to the history of Coventry. Built in the 12^th/13^th centuries, the city’s original Cathedral is thought to have been built on the site of an even earlier church founded by Lady Godiva, (1043). It was also the only Cathedral to have been destroyed by King Henry VIII. Eventually, in the 18^th/19^th centuries the site became a graveyard for Holy Trinity Church.

The Phoenix Initiative has at last provided the city with the opportunity to excavate the site, right down to the original floor level, and reveal what may remain of the Cathedral’s walls and columns. The findings will then be interpreted as part of a new sunken garden – forming the top end of the Phoenix Initiative.

Conservation Officer George Demidowicz said,

"We’re very pleased to welcome the Northamptonshire unit onto this project. I know they’re as excited as we are over the prospect of such a large medieval dig, and one that means so much to the city’s history, the next few months will hopefully reveal a few surprises for us all. The work we’re undertaking here isn’t unique to Coventry though, there are no other excavations like this happening at the moment anywhere in the country!"