An extraordinary archaeological discovery has come to light in the village of Lio Piccolo, just north of Venice, Italy, where a rare engraved Roman gemstone was found during an underwater excavation. The remarkable find, engraved with a captivating mythological figure, is considered an unusual artifact, particularly in an underwater environment. Archaeologists believe that the quality of the jewelry suggests it might have belonged to wealthy Romans who frequented the area.
The underwater excavation, led by Carlo Beltrame and Elisa Costa from Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, has revealed a cut agate gemstone of historical significance. According to Italy 24 Press News, similar precious gems have only been found in two other locations – Torcello and Barena del Vigno – making this discovery in Lio Piccolo all the more exceptional.
Lio Piccolo, historically known as a fishing site, has revealed more than just its maritime past. Researchers uncovered a structure submerged 11 feet below the water’s surface, featuring a brick base and oak walls, dating back to the 1st and 2nd century CE. Initially believed to be used for conserving and farming oysters, further investigations revealed that it functioned as a holding tank for oysters before their consumption.
The presence of valuable frescoes and fragments of black and white mosaic, as well as a brick paving laid on poles, has led archaeologists to speculate about the purpose of this structure. In the 1980s, amateur archaeologist Ernesto Canal, who discovered the site, interpreted it as a prestigious villa. However, Beltrame clarified that the basin and floor plans indicate fluctuations in sea levels and local subsidence, providing crucial markers for studying the area’s environmental changes.
The engraved gemstone offers a glimpse into the lives of ancient Romans who once resided or visited Lio Piccolo. Its exquisite craftsmanship and depiction of a mythological figure point to the affluence and sophistication of those who may have owned such jewelry.
While the gemstone’s mythological figure remains a subject of curiosity and research, its discovery highlights the importance of underwater archaeology in uncovering hidden historical treasures. The underwater excavation in Lio Piccolo represents an ongoing effort to piece together the rich tapestry of the past and understand the cultural and societal aspects of ancient civilizations.
As researchers continue their investigations, the rare Roman gemstone will likely become a focal point for scholars and history enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the connections between wealth, art, and mythology in the ancient world. The find also emphasizes the value of preserving archaeological sites in submerged environments, as they hold valuable insights into human history that might otherwise remain concealed beneath the waters of time.
