In the Tuscan town of San Casciano dei Bagni, one of the most important archaeological sites of recent decades was discovered between 2021 and 2022. Right next to the modern thermal baths, an ancient sanctuary associated with healing waters, functioning from Etruscan times to the late Roman Empire, was uncovered. The complex, dubbed “Bagno Grande,” contained extraordinary finds in the mud and hot water – hundreds of coins, numerous votive offerings, and perfectly preserved bronze statues.
A breakthrough came with the discovery of an altar dedicated to the god Apollo, confirming the site’s healing properties. Other deities associated with health, including Hygieia and Aesculapius, were also worshiped at the sanctuary. The faithful would leave offerings there to pray for healing or in gratitude for their recovery, as evidenced by bronze representations of body parts.
The biggest sensation was the discovery in 2022 of 24 bronze statues in an exceptional state of preservation. Their exceptional condition is the result of the action of hot water and an oxygen-free environment that protected the metal from deterioration for two thousand years.
The discovery from San Casciano is also a unique testimony to the peaceful coexistence of the Etruscans and Romans. The inscriptions on the finds are written in both Etruscan and Latin, demonstrating that, despite political tensions, both worlds were able to cooperate in the spheres of religion and worship. Today, this find is considered one of the most valuable archaeological discoveries of the 21st century and provides an important source of knowledge about the spirituality, medicine, and culture of ancient Italy.
