Italian authorities have recovered rare Etruscan treasures dating back to the 3rd century B.C., stolen from an Etruscan necropolis in Umbria.
The haul, valued at over €8 million ($8.5 million), includes eight urns, two sarcophagi, and personal items such as bronze mirrors and a perfume bottle still fragrant with its ancient contents.
The artefacts were discovered on private land in Città della Pieve, about 150 kilometers (90 miles) north of Rome, by two entrepreneurs who unearthed the treasures during excavation work. Described as “amateurish” by prosecutors, the pair reportedly stumbled upon the burial chambers but mishandled attempts to sell their finds on the black market.
Rare Etruscan Artefacts
The recovered treasures showcase the sophistication of Etruscan culture, which thrived in central Italy 2,500 years ago before being assimilated into the Roman Empire. Among the finds:
- A sarcophagus containing the skeleton of a woman in her 40s.
- Urns adorned with vivid depictions of Greek mythology and female figures with preserved red and gold detailing.
These relics add to the scarce documentation of Etruscan daily life and craftsmanship, offering a rare glimpse into their advanced artistic legacy.
Clumsy Looters Caught Online
The suspects, unfamiliar with the illicit art trade, drew attention to themselves by posting photos of their discoveries online. Authorities launched an investigation involving phone wiretaps, stakeouts, and drone surveillance. Their undoing came when one of them posted a Facebook picture holding one of the artefacts.
Perugia Chief Prosecutor Raffaele Cantone described the pair as inexperienced, stating they “had nothing to do with professional tomb raiders.” The duo now faces up to 10 years in prison for theft and trading in stolen goods.
A History of Rich Discoveries
This isn’t the first significant find in Città della Pieve. In 2015, another Etruscan tomb belonging to the “Pulfna” family was uncovered by a farmer who reported it to authorities and received a €100,000 ($105,000) reward. Nearby, in 2022, archaeologists unearthed ancient bronze statues at San Casciano dei Bagni, a Tuscan village known for its historic thermal baths used by both Etruscans and Romans.
This latest recovery underscores the enduring value and allure of Italy’s ancient heritage—and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
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