Remains of Structures More Than Two Thousand Years Old Found in Rome's Suburbs
In the suburbs of Rome, Italian archaeologists have discovered a large archaeological complex with remains of burials, a shrine, and ritual pools, whose age exceeds two thousand years. The finds date from the 5th century BC to the 1st century AD and primarily belong to the Republican era of Ancient Rome, reports Arkeonews.
At the center of the excavated area, a well-preserved ancient road from the 3rd century BC was found, which at that time ran along a waterway to the Aniene River. Later, in the 1st century BC, its branches were reinforced with stone masonry. However, over time, the path lost its significance — this is evidenced by burials from the 2nd-3rd centuries found around it, which was likely caused by changes in the landscape.
At the end of the road, archaeologists unearthed a small chapel with plastered walls, an altar, and a niche for a statue. Researchers determined that it was built on a site of sacrifices to the gods. Found statuettes, bronze coins, and animal figures indicate that the shrine was dedicated to the Roman god Hercules and functioned in the late 3rd or 2nd century BC.
Additionally, limestone burials with two tombs, dating from the 4th to the early 3rd century BC, were found on the site. In one of them, a sarcophagus, burial urns, and various household items were discovered, while the other contained benches along the walls with male remains. Scientists suggest that both tombs were originally connected and belonged to a wealthy family.
Archaeologists also found two large pools, 28 and 21 meters long. One of them contained water, but the exact purpose of these structures is not yet known. It is hypothesized that they might have been used for religious rites.
As researchers note, all these finds help to better understand how ancient Romans used this area for both ritualistic purposes and daily life.
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