Archaeologists have uncovered a rare, untouched Etruscan tomb in the Caiolo section of the San Giuliano Necropolis, a vast burial ground located just north of Rome. The find was made during excavations led by Baylor University, under permit from Italy’s Ministry of Culture, in close cooperation with the local heritage office and Marturanum Regional Park.
Ancient tomb sealed from the late 7th century
The rock-cut tomb, sealed since the end of the 7th century BCE, dates to the late Orientalizing period, a time marked by growing artistic influence from the eastern Mediterranean. It remained completely intact, an exceptional find in a necropolis where more than 500 known tombs have been looted or damaged over centuries.
“It’s very rare to find an untouched tomb,” said Dr. Barbara Barbaro, director of archaeology for the local heritage authority. “That’s what makes the discovery in this case so unique. A completely intact context is not only key for preservation, but also gives us a whole picture of life through the lens of funerary ritual.”
Tomb contents remain in the original position
Once the heavy slab sealing the chamber was removed, archaeologists entered a remarkably preserved burial site. Dozens of ceramic vessels, some finely painted in traditional Etruscan-Geometric style, were still in place. Several were arranged near the entrance, likely positioned during a pre-sealing ritual.
On a stone bed to the left, a basin and bronze ornaments believed to have belonged to the deceased remained undisturbed. Experts are currently documenting the chamber before beginning full excavation. This slow, layered approach ensures the context of the tomb is preserved before any items are removed for study.
Part of a broader heritage effort
The discovery is part of a long-term research and restoration effort in the Queen’s Tomb area of the necropolis. The site features monumental structures such as the 10-meter-tall Queen’s Tomb (Tomba della Regina), identified by its twin entrances and decorative Doric-style façades.
Recent efforts by the Superintendency encompass restoration and excavation activities at additional nearby tombs, such as the Tomb of the Salamander and a newly uncovered multi-chambered cube tomb discovered in 2023.
In March 2024, archaeologists recovered a red carnelian scarab depicting a warrior on horseback from a looted chamber, adding to the evidence of the area’s cultural richness.
International and local support behind the dig
Excavation is directed by Prof. Davide Zori of Baylor University, working in close collaboration with Dr. Barbaro’s team. The project also receives support from the Municipality of Barbarano Romano and the Marturanum Regional Park.
Barbaro explained that looters have targeted the necropolis of San Giuliano for centuries. She also added that to find a sealed tomb in this context is incredibly rare. It not only protects heritage, but it also provides us with a broader understanding of ancient life through funerary practices.
She added that protecting such discoveries from illegal trade remains a top priority. They are “happy to have taken away material from those who would like it illegally for a few. A heritage that will instead tell a beautiful story for everyone!”
The tomb’s contents will be preserved and studied before being presented in future museum exhibitions. Researchers believe the find will offer important insight into Etruscan social customs, art, and burial traditions.
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