Ancient relics unearthed in Rome during tunnel construction
An extraordinary discovery has been made in Rome, where tunnel construction is underway in preparation for the Holy Year. Relics from the Julio-Claudian dynasty have been found.
5 July 2024 16:16
The Italian Ministry of Culture announced the discovery between the Castle of the Holy Angel and the Vatican. Previously, remains of an ancient laundry were found in the same area of Piazza Pia.
Discoveries in the capital of Italy
As explained by the Italian Ministry of Culture, during the relocation of the laundry ruins, traces of a garden that directly overlooked the banks of the Tiber were found. It is a structure behind a travertine wall with terraces over the river. There was also a portico with columns, of which only the foundations remain.
Other archaeological discoveries currently being made in the area, including Vatican Radio's headquarters, are roof decorations depicting mythological scenes. The archaeologists emphasize that all these finds, dating from the era between the reigns of Emperor Octavian Augustus and Nero, are of immense significance and value.
Italian media note that the results of these excavations cause admiration and also confirm that almost every construction site in Rome encounters remnants from ancient times. The announcements also ensured that this discovery will not cause delays in constructing the car tunnel.
A treat for archaeologists
Ancient literary sources provide many details about these finds. Philo of Alexandria, a Jewish writer and philosopher who died in 50 AD, wrote that Emperor Caligula received a delegation of Jews from that city—victims of religious intolerance—in the Gardens of Agrippina along the Tiber.
The historical description of the meeting place allows experts to conclude that it was discovered at Piazza Pia.
