The ancient Etruscan and Roman settlement of Bagno Grande in San Casciano dei Bagni, located in the Italian province of Siena, continues to amaze archaeologists. Recent excavations have uncovered a true treasure trove.
Recently, researchers presented the findings from the work conducted in 2024. Among the discoveries were various items offered to deities, bronze statues, and even preserved eggs that have survived to this day.
Artifacts that are over 2,300 years old have been remarkably preserved due to the hot thermal water (averaging 40 degrees) and clay mud.
During the work carried out from June to October, a temenos—the protective wall that once surrounded several buildings, including a temple built around a sacred pool—was unearthed.
The Treasures of San Casciano: What Was Found
Archaeologists discovered four intact bronze statues and bronze snakes, one of which measures one meter in length. Researchers also found golden crowns, weapons, gemstones, and jewelry. In 2022, over 20 bronze statues were found at the same site, five of which were undamaged.
Present at the presentation of the 2024 excavation results at the Bagno Grande sanctuary were Minister of Culture Alessandro Juli, Mayor of San Casciano Agnese Carletti, and President of the Tuscany region Eugenio Giani.
"There are endless surprises here," said Jacopo Tabolli, a professor at the University for Foreigners of Siena, who has been leading the search since 2019 alongside Emanuele Mariotti, the excavation director, and Ada Salvi, who is responsible for supervision.
Among the remarkable finds are preserved chicken eggs, some still containing yolks. Approximately 10,000 coins were also discovered, stacked as if they had been placed in large containers that "dissolved" over the centuries.
Details about the discoveries and new research directions in San Casciano will be shared in a program set to air on Rai Storia in February 2025.