Extraordinary find in ancient Liternum

In Giugliano, Italy (near Naples), on the site of the former Roman settlement of Liternum, archaeologists have made a spectacular discovery – they have uncovered a 2,000-year-old necropolis with a unique tomb, probably belonging to a gladiator.

Among the graves, a marble inscription was found commemorating a gladiator – although his remains have not been found, it is believed that he was cremated or his ashes were transferred. The burial site itself indicates that these warriors enjoyed greater respect in Roman society than is often assumed. This and other discovered graves have been dated from the 1st BCE to the 3rd century CE.

The discovery also includes ornate interiors of tombs, richly decorated plasterwork, carefully crafted niches for urns, coins, lamps and other everyday and ritual objects.

Archaeologists will continue work in the necropolis.