What’s New
An extraordinary archaeological discovery has emerged from the heart of Trento, northern Italy, with the uncovering of a monumental necropolis beneath Santa Croce Street. Spanning from the 9th to 6th century BCE, this find adds new layers of historic significance to the area, already well-known for its rich Roman history. Features of note include striking funerary stelae towering up to 2.40 meters high, marking the principal tombs.
Why It Matters
This revelation shines a light on the diverse, rich cultural tapestry that thrived across Europe during a time of significant transformation in the first millennium BCE. The necropolis is a testament to the prosperous civilizations that once inhabited these areas, offering insights into the trade, interactions, and cultural exchanges between groups such as the Etruscans, Phoenicians, Greeks, and Celts.
Details
Over 200 tombs have been meticulously documented, revealing metal artifacts including weaponry and intricate ornaments—symbols of societal identity and status. The archaeological context benefits from exceptional preservation, attributed to the fluctuating riverbed conditions the region has experienced, allowing experts to recreate detailed views of ancient funerary practices. This vividly illustrates the elite class that resided in the Trent basin and demonstrates their influence and societal standing.
Leading the Investigation
Dr. Elisabetta Mottes leads the archaeological endeavours from the Archaeological Heritage Office of the Autonomous Province of Trento. Field operations receive coordination from Drs. Michele Bassetti and Ester Zanichelli of Cora Società Archeologica di Trento. Significant efforts in artifact restoration and micro-excavation techniques are led by experts Susanna Fruet and Dr. Chiara Maggioni.
Cultural Connectivity
This site crucially highlights connections between the Alpine peoples and those of the Po Valley through periods of vibrant cultural growth and symbiotic exchanges, as articulated by Superintendent Franco Marzatico. These findings resonate with the diverse interactions among civilizations during a historically transformative era, underpinning the narrative of shared culture and mutual discovery throughout history.
This story was first published on jpost.com.