Archaeologists have uncovered more than 70 bodies at a medieval burial site used for executed criminals.
The historical site near West End Farm in Buckingham was first discovered in 2018, when archaeological evaluation work was carried out ahead of a development.
A fresh report now confirms at least 73 individual bodies have been found across 34 graves.
No clear order or layout was identified, with most burials noted to be in a "traditional" east-west position - though others were placed in more unusual ways.
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A total of 26 of the skeletons were found with their hands tied behind their backs.
The remains were mostly of adult males, with some juveniles and adolescents, but no females were identified.
Further analysis revealed signs of childhood stress, healed fractures and diseases such as tuberculosis.
Only a small number of artefacts were found at the site, suggesting valuables were removed before burial, Buckinghamshire Council said.
The remains discovered were mostly of adult males
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Two buckles were recovered, with one dating to the late Roman period and one to the post-medieval period.
Analysis of one skeleton suggested it dated back to the 13th century.
Archaeologists believe the lack of grave goods, unusual layout and evidence of bound hands "strongly suggests" the site was an execution cemetery, a rare type of burial ground historically used for criminals.
Buckinghamshire Council councillor, Peter Strachan, said: "Our archaeology team has worked tirelessly to ensure this remarkable site was properly investigated.
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The historic site was uncovered near West End Farm, Buckingham
|"The discovery of what is likely a medieval execution burial ground offers a rare glimpse into Buckinghamshire’s past.
"We are committed to preserving and sharing these findings with the local community so that everyone can appreciate the depth of our county’s history.
"I thank members of the local community and local councillors in Buckingham for their tireless interest in this site – this dedication has helped to maintain momentum in discovering so much more about what happened to these people in our past."
Archaeologists will next carry out post-excavation analysis and publish the results of their findings.
Further research will then be carried out to better understand the site and the individuals who were buried there.
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