Remains of a luxurious villa from the Roman Empire period have been discovered in the Castel di Guido area on the outskirts of Rome, the capital of Italy. CNN reported this.
According to reports, in February of this year, local residents informed law enforcement agencies about suspicious activity observed in the area. During the investigation, carabinieri identified traces indicating illegal excavation work at ancient archaeological sites.
According to investigation data, a group of individuals entered the area using an excavator and attempted to uncover a large underground structure. Although the excavation work was quickly stopped, the remains of a previously unknown ancient villa were brought to light as a result.
Archaeologists have so far identified a large hall with an atrium and a water collection basin, as well as mosaic floors decorated with complex geometric and plant-like patterns in black and white.
Representatives of the Italian Ministry of Culture stated that this area was historically part of the Lorium settlement, which was frequently visited by Roman emperors. Specialists suggest that the villa may have belonged to members of the upper class of the Roman aristocracy.
Additionally, during the excavations, marble decorations and fragments of a statue related to Silvanus, the god of nature in Roman mythology, were also found.
Officials reported that some parts of the site were damaged as a result of the illegal excavations. Archaeological research is currently ongoing. In the future, the area is planned to be opened to visitors by special appointment.
