Ancient Rome unearthed: Julio-Claudian artefacts stun archaeologists

A remarkable discovery has been made in Rome, where a tunnel is being constructed in preparation for the Holy Year. Artifacts from the Julio-Claudian dynasty have been found.

The Italian Ministry of Culture reported the discovery between the Castel Sant'Angelo and the Vatican. Earlier, in the same area of Piazza Pia, remains of an ancient laundry were found.

As explained by the Italian Ministry of Culture, traces of a garden extending directly to the banks of the Tiber were found during the relocation of the laundry ruins. The garden is behind a travertine wall and terraces above the river. There was also a portico with columns, of which only the foundations remain.

Other archaeological discoveries currently made in the vicinity—including near the headquarters of Vatican Radio—are roof decorations depicting mythological scenes. Archaeologists emphasise that all these discoveries, dating from the period between the reigns of Emperor Octavian Augustus and Nero, are of immense importance and value.

Italian media note that the results of these excavations evoke admiration and confirm that almost every construction site in Rome reveals remains from ancient times. Communications also assured that this discovery would not cause delays in constructing the car tunnel.

Many details about these findings can be traced in ancient literary sources. The Jewish writer and philosopher Philo of Alexandria, who died in AD 50, wrote that Emperor Caligula received a delegation of Jews from that city—victims of religious intolerance—in the Gardens of Agrippina on the Tiber.

According to experts, the historical description of the location of this meeting allows them to conclude that it was discovered at Piazza Pia.