A UK couple renovating a 900-year-old church into a home discovered over 80 human skeletons beneath the floor. Instead of removing them, they built around the remains, preserving the church’s history while adding modern comforts
A renovation project that was supposed to turn a medieval church into a dream home took an extraordinary turn for one UK couple when they found more than 80 human skeletons buried beneath the church floorboards.
Lucy and Rhys Thomas were transforming the 900-year-old St. Peter’s Church in Peterstone Wentlooge, Wales, when the eerie discovery emerged.
Archaeologists told the couple they might find five or six skeletons under the ancient church, a site first built back in 1142. Instead, workers unearthed dozens more than expected.
“We were told there might be a few bodies,” Lucy, a mother of five, told British media outlet Metro. “But once we started digging it became clear there were many, many more than we first envisioned.”
Historical burial practices help explain the find. In medieval times, it was common for churches to serve as burial sites, especially for wealthy or influential people, meaning remains could be found directly beneath the flooring.
Rather than removing the remains, the couple chose a respectful approach. Many of the skeletons were buried in family groupings—husbands and wives, parents with children—which influenced their decision. The Thomases left the remains in place and worked their home design around them.
The project took four years, during which they preserved much of the church’s character, including the original walls, tower and bells. Engraved stone floor tiles now serve as part of an outdoor patio, while underfloor heating covers the burial area. The finished home features modern amenities such as a bar and hot tub.
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