Fascinating find

170 Etruscan tombs discovered in Florence

The discovered necropolis consists of six shaft tombs in which the ashes of the deceased were kept in terracotta vases and grave goods.

(Bild: AFP/Pascal Pochard-Casabianca (Symbolbild))

A remarkable archaeological discovery was recently made in the municipality of Bagno a Ripoli in the province of Florence. During construction work for a new sports center, a necropolis with almost 170 graves was discovered.

This dates back to an ancient Etruscan community. The finds provide an insight into the life of the Villanova community, which predates the Etruscan culture.

Graves with bodies also found
The discovered necropolis consists of six shaft tombs in which the ashes of the deceased were kept in terracotta vases and grave goods. Other graves containing dozens of bodies were also found.

Mirrors, combs, earrings and vases found
The artifacts discovered include oil lamps, personal items such as mirrors, hairpins and combs, as well as game pieces, dice, glass balm and gold earrings.

Fascinating insight
The Commissioner for Archaeology, Art and Landscape of the City of Florence explained that the tombs found cover a period of several centuries. They provide a fascinating insight into the life of the community 2000 years ago.