Tomb discovery in ancona unveils secrets of ancient italics
Archaeologists from the University of Bologna have successfully discovered and partially studied a tomb in a larger necropolis in Ancona Province, Italy. The artefacts raise further questions about what life in this region was like thousands of years ago.
Ancona caught the attention of archaeologists from around the globe back in 2018. That’s when a cemetery was discovered in Corinaldo, which from the outset promised a very large number of artefacts. It continues to be the subject of research, which occasionally brings about new discoveries.
A 2600-year-old tomb
Archaeologists from the University of Bologna are credited with the latest discoveries. They have discovered and partially studied a burial site dating back to the 7th century BCE.
The tomb, measuring approximately 3.8 metres by 2.2 metres, contained numerous artefacts. So far, 150 decorative items have been extracted, including fragments of a two-wheeled chariot, a bronze helmet, kettles, and decorated vessels. According to the archaeologists, such items unequivocally suggest that a high-ranking individual was buried in the tomb.
Interestingly, the burial site dating back to the 7th century BCE should be associated with the Piceni tribe. These ancient Italic people lived along the Adriatic coast from the 9th to the 3rd century BCE.
However, the discovered tomb contained items considered characteristic of the Piceni and associated with the Etruscans. Although they lived around the same period, they inhabited much more northern and western areas. Researchers are unsure what this signifies, but some suggest it may indicate good trade relations between the two peoples.
"Corinaldo can proudly claim the title of the land of Princes. This discovery confirms the historical and cultural value of the Nevola archaeological area, which will allow us to understand, and perhaps rewrite, the history of our community. From the outset, this administration decided to invest significant resources in the excavation campaign and research because the importance of what is emerging, and we hope more will emerge, is truly significant," said Gianni Aloisi, Mayor of Corinaldo.
