Archaeologists expect a fascinating insight into the history of Colchester as a Roman settlement when they excavate the old Post Office site.
The Colchester Archaeological Trust hopes to begin 12 weeks of work on the Head Street site in late May.
Howard Brooks, project director, said he was expecting to find a wealth of Roman material on the site, which stands on the west side of the Roman town.
The dig should reveal remains of the fortress dating from AD43, buildings which survived the Boudican fire of AD61 and on top of that, remains of the Roman army retirement town.
Nearer to the surface will be Saxon and medieval remains.
Mr Brooks said: "There should be lots there. We aren't expecting any major surprises, but you never know!"
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