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| This 1746 map shows the probable site of the burial of John Duke. |
Walking along the streets of London, with its over 2,000 years of history, you can never know exactly what, or who, you are walking on.
Historically, in Britain, individuals who died by suicide, which was considered a crime, executed criminals or other 'outcasts' were often denied burial in consecrated church ground and interred at crossroads, with a stake through their heart. It was believed that the junction of roads would confuse the spirit of the deceased and prevent them from returning to haunt the living.
The crossroads at which they were interred were usually the closest to their home or the murder site.
Three high profile crossroads burials.
Although there were many burials at crossroads, records have been lost or destroyed, making a true count of how many impossible. Below are the three that I can find information about.
