Unearthing a Treasure Trove: Ancient Skeletons Interred with Shoes and Jewels Discovered Amidst Construction
A remarkable discovery! A recent excavation near Rome has revealed a captivating necropolis dating back centuries Immerse yourself in history as 67 skeletons rest in 57 beautifully adorned tombs, shedding light on ancient burial practices
During a two-year excavation to construct a solar power plant near Rome, a team unearthed an ancient Roman necropolis. The site contained 67 skeletons interred in 57 intricately decorated tombs. The discovery left archaeologists perplexed, as the necropolis was believed to have originated between the second and fourth centuries. Adding to the mystery, the skeletons were found adorned with gold jewelry and wearing luxurious leather footwear. The tombs were also intricately designed to resemble dwellings, adding another layer of intrigue to the find.
Authorities were surprised by the discovery on a 52-acre plot of land near the ancient city of Tarquinia, north of Rome, despite the area's reputation for such findings.
The remains were buried just under the surface of the earth at a depth of about 20 inches.
Emanuele Giannini
Silver rings embellished with amber and engraved initials, valuable gemstones, terracotta pottery, coins, polished glassware, talismans, and even pieces of clothing were unearthed alongside the opulent necklaces and earrings.
"Several skeletons were uncovered still adorned in their luxurious hosiery and footwear," shared Emanuele Giannini, the head excavation archaeologist on site, in an interview with CNN. "The presence of these treasures, coupled with the absence of any signs of physical exertion on the bones, leads us to believe that these individuals were not local laborers, but rather members of the elite Roman families hailing from urban centers."
A 2,300-year-old mosaic crafted from shells and coral has recently been unearthed in Rome. Giannini explained that methods of "pre-emptive archaeology," including field surveys and trial trenches, were employed to detect possible ancient structures beneath the surface.
"According to Giannini, there was a vague notion that a treasure might be hidden there, based on historical sources referring to a postal station for travelers in the vicinity. It was a popular stop for Romans seeking food and rest, but the scale of the discovery is unprecedented."
This aerial shot shows the area, which could have been an ancient postal station or rest stop for weary travelers.
Emanuele Giannini
The array of funerary items placed near the remains, along with the opulent decorations and linings found inside the tombs, suggest to archaeologists that the occupants sought to replicate celestial environments reminiscent of their earthly homes. Many tombs were adorned with intricate cloth linings or encased in tiles or terracotta pieces resembling miniature houses.
Giannini noted another remarkable detail: the majority of the unearthed tombs were communal, constructed for a minimum of two individuals with probable familial ties. Some skeletons were discovered entwined with each other.
"Building tombs for entire family nuclei is a typical ancient Roman trait," he said, "but these are outstanding in their inner decor, which shows wealth and status."
Archaeologists say the discovery of 67 skeletons dressed in their finery across in 57 tombs is "unmatched."
Emanuele Giannini
The shallow tombs, discovered just 20 inches below the surface, seemed to almost protrude from the grass, yet had gone unnoticed by anyone. The exceptional preservation of the site is due to the presence of huge limestone blocks that prevented ploughing, seeding, and modern farming in the area, leaving it undisturbed for centuries, according to Giannini.
Newly discovered artifacts from the 2022 archaeological dig at Santa Severa Castle in Santa Marinella are currently being preserved and showcased. However, the origins of the uncovered skeletons are being analyzed through forensic testing before they are displayed to the public. After 50 years of neglect, the ancient Roman palace has reopened to the public.
Whatever their genesis, authorities are certain more hidden wonders will come to light as digs for the solar park move to another nearby site.
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Archaeologists believe occupants of the tombs wanted to recreate heavenly spaces similar to their earthly homes.
Emanuele Giannini
"We are excavating a large rural area for land redevelopment, balancing the need to avoid damaging unique wonders with the goal of increasing clean energy production," Margherita Eichberg, art heritage superintendent of the provinces of Viterbo and southern Etruria for Italy's Culture Ministry, told CNN. The necropolis area will be cordoned off for safety reasons and will not be included in the solar park, with no public access.
"This is the allure and beauty of Italy: Every dig reveals incredible wonders from the past that require preservation."
