2,600 year old Tomb belonging to a Prince found in Italy!
Archaeologists from the University of Bologna have made an incredible discovery in the Corinaldo Necropolis, located in Italy’s Ancona province. This remarkable find follows the 2018 revelation of the “Prince of Corinaldo” tomb, adding another chapter to the region’s rich historical narrative.
Photo Credit: Città di Corinaldo
A Glimpse into the Past
The newly uncovered tomb dates back 2,600 years to the 7th century BCE and is associated with the Picentes, an ancient Italic people who once thrived along the Adriatic coast. This civilization is known for its extensive trade relations with neighboring cultures, including the Etruscans. The tomb itself, located in a large circular pit, is a testament to the high status of its occupant. Measuring around 3.8 by 2.2 metres, the tomb was filled with more than 150 ornate artefacts, including a bronze helm, finely decorated vessels, cauldrons, and even a two-wheeled chariot. These artefacts suggest the presence of a funerary banquet, a custom indicating the tomb’s owner was likely a figure of considerable importance.
The Picentes and Their Legacy
The Picentes occupied a region known as Picenum, which was eventually annexed by Rome in 268 BCE. Known for their wealth and connections, the Picentes left behind a legacy that continues to intrigue historians and archaeologists alike. The artefacts discovered in the tomb not only reveal the lifestyle of the Picentes elite but also their cultural connections with the Etruscans, as evidenced by several Etruscan-origin items found within the site.
Photo Credit: Città di Corinaldo
The Corinaldo Necropolis: An Archaeological Treasure
The Corinaldo Necropolis, situated in the town of Nevola, has been an active archaeological site since 2018 under the ArcheoNevola Project. This project, spearheaded by the University of Bologna’s Department of History, Culture, and Civilization, in partnership with local authorities, has been crucial in uncovering the region’s ancient past. The latest discovery includes a large circular ditch with a diameter of 30 metres, housing the quadrangular tomb. Among the items found were skewers, an iron axe for cutting meat, and various pottery items used for serving food and drinks, all pointing to the significance of the funerary banquet tradition.
Photo Credit: Città di Corinaldo
A New Chapter for Corinaldo
Mayor Gianni Aloisi of Corinaldo has proudly proclaimed the town as the “land of the princes,” highlighting the discovery’s importance in rewriting the local history. The artifacts unearthed will eventually be restored and displayed in a public museum, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich history of the Picentes and their influence on the region.
The Corinaldo Necropolis continues to be a site of immense archaeological value, revealing not just the artifacts of the past, but the stories of the people who once walked these lands. As these discoveries are presented to the public, they offer a deeper understanding of Italy’s ancient history and the cultural connections that shaped it.