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Ten slabs inscribed with Caracalla's name have recently been unearthed in Turkey. The slabs were reused as foundation stones for a house in 1950, preserving the inscriptions from erosion. The inscriptions, written in Latin, may have been an official reply or edict. The exact text of these inscriptions has not been released. They were found in the ancient Roman city of Takina, near modern-day Yarişli, Turkey (pictured on the map alone). 🏛️ Summary of the Discovery In October 2025, archaeologists announced the discovery of ten inscribed stone slabs beneath a now-abandoned house in Yarışlı village, near the ancient city of Takina in Burdur Province, southwestern Türkiye. The slabs contain fragments of a formal Roman imperial letter issued under Emperor Caracalla (r. AD 198–217), making this one of the rarest epigraphic finds in the region. 📜 Key Details: Inscription type: A formal imperial letter, probably a public edict or notice from Caracalla to local officials. Material: Ten stone slabs reused as building material in a village house built in the 1950s. Language: Latin, with formulaic imperial phrasing typical of Roman bureaucratic correspondence. Origin: Stones were removed from the ruins of Takina, a Roman-era city in the Yeşilova district, and transported by villagers who were unaware of their historical significance. Preservation: The slabs remained hidden in plain sight for decades, becoming part of the house’s foundation and walls. 🧭 Historical Significance This find is exceptional for several reasons: Rare surviving imperial letters: Most Roman imperial communications were written on bronze or parchment and have not lasted. Stone inscriptions of letters are rare and usually reserved for important edicts or honors. Epigraphic insight: The slabs offer a glimpse into the language, tone, and structure of Roman imperial correspondence, including salutations, decrees, and local references. Reuse of antiquities: The case highlights how ancient materials were repurposed in rural architecture, inadvertently preserving historical artifacts. 🔍 Additional Context on Takina Takina (also spelled Takinia) was a Roman settlement featuring civic infrastructure, temples, and inscriptions. Although it was not as prominent as nearby cities such as Sagalassos or Kibyra, it still played a role in regional governance. The discovery of Caracalla’s letter indicates that Takina had enough status to warrant direct communication from the emperor. https://arkeonews.net/the-lost-letters-of-caracalla-ten-inscribed-slabs-unearthed-beneath-a-turkish-village-home/

A large hoard of Roman coins has been discovered in North Wales. The hoard, possibly the largest ever found in Wales, consisted of 15,000 coins, weighing more than 130 lbs. 🏺 Discovery of Over 15,000 Roman Coins in North Wales (August 2025) In August 2025, metal detectorists David Moss and Ian Nicholson uncovered a massive hoard of over 15,000 Roman coins buried in two ceramic vessels in a field near Wrexham, North Wales. The find is being hailed as potentially the most significant Roman coin hoard ever discovered in Wales. 🪙 Key Details: Date of discovery: August 2025 Finders: David Moss and Ian Nicholson, experienced detectorists Location: Undisclosed field near Wrexham, North Wales Number of coins: Estimated over 15,000 Coin type: Copper-alloy radiates, likely dating to the late 3rd century AD, possibly around the reigns of emperors such as Gallienus and Claudius II Context: Coins were found in two ceramic pots, buried together, suggesting intentional deposition — possibly for safekeeping during a period of instability Post-discovery: Moss reportedly slept in his car with the coins for three nights to protect them before delivering them to the National Museum Cardiff Legal status: The hoard has been reported under the Treasure Act and is undergoing assessment 🧭 Historical Significance: This discovery illuminates the economic and social conditions of late Roman Britain, especially in a region not previously known for significant Roman settlement. The presence of such a large hoard might suggest local wealth, military activity, or reactions to political uncertainty during the Crisis of the Third Century. The coins are currently being conserved and cataloged. https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/roman-coin-hoard-wales-00102246# https://herald.wales/national-news/possible-record-breaking-discovery-of-15000-roman-coins-in-north-wales/

New insights into the philosophical origins of Stoicism are being gained through the study of the scrolls from Herculaneum. One of the scrolls, known as PHer. 1018 and pictured above, contains Philodemus’ “History of the Stoa.” This work explores the origins of the Stoic school, founded by Zeno of Citium. https://greekreporter.com/2025/10/15/deciphered-herculaneum-scroll-ancient-greek-founder-stoicism/ A previous post on the Stoics and Zeno of Citium.

A hoard of 450 Roman silver coins, several silver bars, and gold artifacts, including a gold coin and a ring have been found in the Northern German city of Borsum, Germany (located on map below). From the article it is unclear the dates of the coins discovered or the nature of the hoard (for safe keeping, plunder by a barbarian tribe, etc). https://www.heritagedaily.com/2025/10/roman-silver-treasure-unearthed-near-borsum/156151

Pictured above: Rose petals are dropped from the oculus of the Pantheon to celebrate the Pentecost. Firefighters climb to the top of the dome every year and release tens of thousands of red petals, which then flutter down 43 meters into the rotunda. These petals represent the descent of the Holy Spirit. Below is an informative short video on the Pantheon. Other posts about the Pantheon:

Remains of a large stone-lined basin have been discovered in the ancient Roman city of Gabii. This structure was constructed around 250 BCE. Located just 11 miles from Rome, Gabii was a rival city with its own temples, civic buildings, and fortifications. Gabii lost population and importance as Rome expanded. Gabii became an ally of Rome around the late 6th century BCE, likely during the reign of Tarquinius Superbus, the last Roman king. According to Livy (Ab Urbe Condita, Book 1.53–54), the alliance was sealed through a clever stratagem: Sextus Tarquinius infiltrated Gabii, gained trust, and then betrayed the city to Rome. After this, Gabii entered into a formal treaty with Rome—one of the earliest known Roman foedera—with the terms inscribed on a bull’s hide and displayed in the Temple of Semo Sancus. This alliance marked Gabii’s shift from a rival to a subordinate partner, and it kept some independence for a while, even sending troops to Roman campaigns. However, by the early Republic, Gabii’s influence had dropped sharply, and it was eventually incorporated into the Roman state. 🏛️ Discovery Overview A team led by Prof. Marcello Mogetta (University of Missouri) discovered a large stone-lined water basin in the ancient city of Gabii, 11 miles east of Rome. The basin, partly carved into bedrock, dates to roughly 250 BCE, with signs that some parts could be older. Its central location near Gabii’s crossroads indicates it may have been part of the city’s forum, providing rare insight into early Roman civic architecture. 🧱 Architectural Significance The basin is one of the earliest examples of Roman monumental architecture beyond temples and walls. It reflects Roman adaptation of Greek urban planning, including terraces and civic spaces inspired by the Agora and Parthenon. 🏺 Cultural and Ritual Context Artifacts discovered in the basin—lamps, perfume containers, inscribed cups—may have served as ritual offerings associated with its closure around 50 CE. A nearby thermal anomaly, possibly a temple or civic building, is planned for future excavation. 🏞️ Preservation and Research Italy’s Ministry of Culture has designated Gabii as an archaeological park, now part of the Musei e Parchi Archeologici di Praeneste e Gabii. The Gabii Project, now led by Mogetta, continues to excavate and interpret the site’s civic and religious development. https://phys.org/news/2025-10-hidden-centuries-archaeologists-unearth-ancient.html#google_vignette https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/antiquity/article/reimagining-urban-success-rhythms-of-activity-at-gabii-800-bcad-600/4746096A023058FFB45304D2FD8C49F9

Charlton Heston’s speech as Marc Antony in “Julius Caesar” in 1950:

This is a highly technical article that demonstrates, for the first time, that researchers have detected levels of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone in the skeletal remains of women from the 1st to the 19th century AD – some of whom were buried with fetuses. In ancient Rome, childbirth was perilous for both mothers and infants. Here's what the evidence suggests: 👩‍🦰 Maternal Mortality Estimates indicate that Ancient Roman maternal death rates during childbirth may have reached 1.4% per case, or 14 deaths per 1,000 births. Compared to 1997, when the rate had dropped sharply in the United States to 7.7 deaths per 100,000 live births — or 0.077 deaths per 1,000 live births — thanks to medical advances, improved hygiene, and better prenatal care. The highest female death rates occurred between ages 15–29, the main childbearing years. Longevity only improved for females after they left their prime childbearing years. Tombstone inscriptions (see below), like that of Rusticeia Matrona from Mauretania, explicitly state childbirth as the cause of death. Rusticeia Matrona probably lived during the Roman Imperial period, most likely between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD, based on the archaeological context of her tombstone inscription found at Ain Kebira in Mauretania (modern Algeria). Although the exact date of her life isn't given in the inscription, scholars link it to the Roman presence in North Africa, especially when Mauretania was a Roman province. 👶 Infant Mortality Infant mortality in ancient Rome ranged from 15% to 35%, meaning up to one-third of babies died soon after birth. Surviving past age five was a major milestone; only then was a child considered likely to reach adulthood. 🧪 Contributing Factors Insufficient antiseptic practices, limited anatomical understanding, and dependence on midwives and religious rituals made childbirth very dangerous. Women often gave birth multiple times—elite Roman matrons might have 6 to 9 children over their lifetime. 🧬 Breakthrough in Bioarchaeology Researchers have, for the first time, successfully detected sex hormones—estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone—in ancient skeletal remains of women dating from the 1st to the 19th century AD. This includes individuals buried with fetuses, suggesting they died during pregnancy or shortly after childbirth. 🔍 Method and Significance Hormonal traces were detected in bones and teeth, which retain biochemical signals much longer than previously believed. This creates a new way to identify pregnancy and postpartum status in archaeological settings, providing insights into maternal mortality and reproductive health in ancient populations.. 🏛️ Implications for Archaeology The method could transform how archaeologists analyze female burials, particularly those with fetal remains. It introduces a biochemical aspect to osteological analysis, complementing traditional morphological and genetic approaches. https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/10214986/1/Hemer_Author Accepted Manuscript_ First successful detection of oestrogen.pdf https://www.newscientist.com/article/2499833-pregnancy-test-for-skeletons-could-help-reveal-ancient-mothers/

Although not as well known as other cities like Pompeii and Herculaneum that were destroyed by Vesuvius in AD 79, the city of Stabiae was able to recover somewhat soon after the eruption. The Villa of San Marco in Stabiae was covered in ash, however, and has been well preserved (see video below). Stabiae, shown below, was impacted by Vesuvius in AD 79.

A Roman gravestone, removed from Italy during WWII and relocated to a backyard in New Orleans, Louisiana, will be returned to Italy (see video below). Here is a translation and explanation of the inscription: 🪦 Latin Inscription: D(is) M(anibus) / S(e)x(to) Congenio Vero / mi(liti) cl(assis) p(raetoriae) Mi(senensis) natio(ne) Bes(sso) / vixit an(nis) XLII mi(litavit) an(nis) XXII / Tutela (triere) Asc(l)epio / fece(runt) Atilius Carus / et Vettius Longi/nus heredes / b(ene) m(erenti) 📜 Translation: "To the spirits of the dead. For Sextus Congenius Verus, soldier of the praetorian fleet Misenensis, from the tribe of the Bessi [i.e., a Thracian]. He lived 42 years, served 22 in the military, on the trireme Asclepius. Atilius Carus and Vettius Longinus, his heirs, made this for him, well deserving." 🧭 Contextual Notes: · D.M. (Dis Manibus): A standard Roman funerary dedication meaning “To the spirits of the dead.” · Sextus Congenius Verus: The deceased, a Roman sailor. · Classis Praetoria Misenensis: The elite imperial fleet stationed at Misenum, near Naples. · Natio Besso: Indicates he was ethnically Bessian — a Thracian tribe from the Balkans. · Trireme Asclepius: Named after the Greco-Roman god of medicine, suggesting the ship may have had ceremonial or medical significance. · Atilius Carus and Vettius Longinus: His heirs, likely fellow sailors, as Roman soldiers were not legally permitted to marry until later imperial reforms. · Bene merenti: “Well deserving” — a common epitaph honoring the deceased’s service and character. This stele is a rare and poignant example of Roman naval funerary practice. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/a-married-couple-in-new-orleans-found-a-stone-in-their-backyard-it-turned-out-to-be-an-ancient-roman-soldiers-gravestone-180987485/ https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-15182737/A-long-lost-ancient-Roman-artifact-reappears-New-Orleans-backyard.html

Below is an excellent article and short video of the Equites (members of the equestrian class): The Roman Equites (Latin: equites, meaning “horsemen”) were originally the cavalry class of the Roman Republic. Over time, they developed into a wealthy, non-senatorial elite—similar to an upper-middle class—that played important roles in administration, finance, and imperial service. 🐎 Who Were the Equites? Origins: Began as Rome’s cavalrymen—wealthy citizens who could afford horses and arms. Republic Era: Served in military and judicial roles; often acted as jurors and tax collectors (publicani). Imperial Era: Evolved into a bureaucratic and commercial elite, overseeing imperial finances, provincial administration, and military logistics. Status: Ranked below senators but above ordinary citizens. Required a minimum property qualification (often 400,000 sesterces). Macrinus was the first Roman emperor to come from the equestrian order, never having held senatorial rank before his accession. 🏛️ Macrinus (picture above): Full name: Marcus Opellius Macrinus Reign: April 217 – June 218 CE Background: Born in Caesarea in Mauretania (modern Algeria). Rose through the ranks as a legal and financial administrator. Served as Praetorian Prefect under Emperor Caracalla. After orchestrating Caracalla’s assassination, Macrinus was proclaimed emperor by the army. 🏛️ Summary of the Equestrian Class Membership was based on wealth, not birth or political office. Required a minimum property qualification (often 400,000 sesterces). Equites held key roles in: --Finance (e.g., tax collection, banking) --Administration (e.g., provincial governance, imperial bureaucracy) --Military command, especially under emperors who favored equestrian officials over senators. 📜 Distinction from Senators Senators: Hereditary or appointed elite with political power. Equites: Wealthy, influential, but typically excluded from high political office unless elevated. https://share.google/KMC5RtqxBlWYlt11f

The pathway from the Imperial Palace to the imperial box at the Colosseum will now be accessible to the public. This hidden emperors’ route is known as the “Commodus Passage.” The Commodus Passage—a long-hidden imperial corridor beneath the Colosseum—is scheduled to open to the public for the first time on October 27, 2025, marking a major milestone in Roman archaeology and conservation. 🏛️ Historical Significance Named after Emperor Commodus (161–192 AD). The passage linked the imperial box inside the Colosseum directly to the outside world, enabling emperors and elite dignitaries to enter unseen by the public. It was not part of the original Flavian construction (72–80 AD), but was added later by excavating underneath the amphitheatre’s foundations. 🧱 Restoration and Features Rediscovered and excavated in the 19th century, but remained closed to the public until now. Restoration completed in September 2025, funded by the Colosseum Archaeological Park and Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP). Visitors will see: Marble-clad walls with traces of ancient metal clamps. Stucco vaults depicting mythological scenes (e.g., Dionysus and Ariadne). Painted plaster showing arena spectacles. A tactile map and video reconstructions to aid accessibility. 🚶 Public Access and Experience Entry will be limited to small groups of eight, similar to the panoramic elevator system. About 30 meters of the passage are currently open, with plans to extend access further in 2026. Visitors can observe live restoration work through a glass door at the end of the tour, combining public engagement with conservation efforts. https://www.ansa.it/english/news/2025/10/07/commodus-passage-opens-to-public-for-first-time_015e0962-c0cf-4dbe-9a1c-02bc9f253aff.html Below is an excellent video by Ryan Garrett about this tunnel and he examines other possible roles of this tunnel.

Roman wooden writing tablets were discovered in ancient Isarnodurum (modern-day Izernore, France). 🪵 Discovery Context Excavated in 2020 by Inrap (National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research) at Chemin des Trablettes. Found in waterlogged wells that preserved organic materials like wood, seeds, and pollen due to the absence of light and oxygen. The site revealed a mixed-use Roman district combining residential and artisanal zones, including a woodworking workshop. ✍️ Writing Tablets: Form and Function At least 15 wooden writing tablets were recovered, with many in fragmentary condition. These tablets served as school notebooks, official documents, and financial records, circulating widely across the Roman Empire. One tablet still bears visible ink inscriptions—a rare survival—currently undergoing epigraphic analysis. Some tablets were triplex codices, with multiple leaves and hollowed sections for wax or ink writing. 🪚 Evidence of Local Manufacture The presence of slats, offcuts, and a raw tablet suggests local production, likely using softwoods like fir or spruce. The workshop also created other wooden items—combs, pyxides (cosmetic boxes), and spindle whorls—using boxwood, ash, hazel, and maple. The proximity to forest resources allowed craftsmen to work with green wood, which is easier to shape. 🧒 Daily Life and Literacy These tablets, alongside children's wooden soles and domestic artifacts, reflect a literate, family-oriented community. Roman Craft Workshop Discovered in Ancient Isarnodurum with Writing Tablets Still Bearing Ink and Rare Children’s Wooden Soles Archaeologists Unearth a Roman Woodworking Workshop with Inked Tablets and Children’s Shoes in Isarnodurum - Arkeonews https://www.thehistoryblog.com/archives/74289

A damaged Egyptian mummy from 300 BCE, which was damaged during 19th-century unwrapping and examination in Britain, is set for restoration. It belongs to the Derby Museum. The cartonnage, or funeral mask, indicates that the mummy was of high social status. 🏺 Egyptian Mummy Pa-Sheri: Restoration and Historical Significance A 2,300-year-old Egyptian mummy named Pa-Sheri, dating to around 300 BCE during the Ptolemaic period, is undergoing restoration after severe damage caused during the 19th-century unwrapping and examination in Britain. Pa-Sheri has been part of the Derby Museums collection since at least 1859, and his remains were recently transferred to the University of Lincoln for conservation work. 🔍 Damage and Victorian Interference X-rays revealed extensive internal damage: head, pelvis, and limb parts were removed, and arm bones were rearranged into the chest cavity. His outer wrappings were reattached, concealing the invasive treatment, likely performed either for scientific curiosity or during so-called “mummy unwrapping parties”, a grim Victorian fad. 🎨 Cartonnage and Social Status Pa-Sheri’s painted cartonnage (funeral mask) is richly decorated with hieroglyphics, vibrant pigments like Egyptian Blue and orpiment yellow, and intricate illustrations. These features indicate he had a high social status in ancient Luxor, possibly belonging to the elite class. 🛠️ Restoration Approach Conservation students Ella Maude and Ella Monteiro, under the supervision of senior technician Josephine Mackenzie, are employing a minimal intervention strategy—preserving the mummy’s current condition while stabilizing damage. Techniques include consolidating flaking plaster and paint, cleaning fragile surfaces, and replacing aged supports beneath the mask. 🏛️ Exhibition and Ethical Reflection Pa-Sheri will be displayed alongside another mummy, Pypyu, in Derby’s new exhibition Displaced: From the Nile to the Derwent, which explores how Egyptian artifacts arrived in British museums. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp8wxpw1rg8o

There have been several previous posts about Ancient Rome’s trade with India (see below). Here is an excellent video by Invicta on the subject: 🌍 Indo-Roman Trade: A Comprehensive Overview From the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE, the Roman Empire engaged in vibrant trade with India, mainly using maritime routes through the Red Sea and Egyptian ports like Berenice and Myos Hormos. The Tamil kingdoms of Chera, Chola, and Pandya in southern India played a key role in this trade network, exporting valuable goods to the Roman Empire. 📦 Principal Commodities Traded Indian Exports: Pepper, cinnamon, ginger, ivory, incense, precious gems (pearls, rubies), fine textiles. Roman Imports to India: Gold and silver coins, wine, glassware, coral, and luxury items. Indian merchants largely insisted on payment in precious metals, prompting a substantial transfer of Roman coinage to the subcontinent. 🪙 Coin Hoards: Archaeological Evidence Roman coins discovered throughout South India offer critical physical evidence of this exchange: Major Sites: Arikamedu, Pattanam, Karur, and notably, the Kottayam district. Kottayam Finds: The Poonjar Hoard, uncovered in 1945, includes four gold aurei featuring emperors Nero, Claudius, and Antoninus Pius. Nearby, a single Claudius coin was found at Idamakuduru near Poonjar. These finds are significant for revealing Roman coin circulation deep within Kerala, away from immediate port zones. Chronology: The coin hoards mainly date from the early to mid-Roman Imperial period (1st–2nd centuries CE), aligning with the peak of Indo-Roman trade. Local Adaptations: Some coins were defaced and re-minted by Indian authorities to assert sovereignty, while others were melted down or imitated locally, illustrating integration into indigenous economies. 🏛 Economic and Cultural Impact Professor Raoul McLaughlin estimates that import taxes, such as the tetarte levied on Indian goods as they entered Roman Egypt, contributed up to 25–30% of the entire Roman budget, financing military ventures and public programs. This highlights the economic significance of Eastern trade in maintaining Roman imperial power. Writers like Pliny the Elder voiced concern about the large quantities of Roman gold flowing to India, emphasizing the extensive scale of this trade. The discovery of coin hoards inland, especially in Kerala’s Kottayam district, also suggests well-established distribution networks beyond ports—likely using river routes and overland trade paths to spread Roman goods and currency further into the Indian subcontinent.

A second Roman statue found at Heraclea Sintica near Petrich, Bulgaria, will go on display. (Below is a thread about the discovery of the first statue.) The second marble statue unearthed at Heraclea Sintica has been fully restored and is now displayed at the National Archaeological Museum in Sofia. Discovered by Prof. Lyudmil Vagalinski’s team, the statue dates back to the 2nd century AD, probably during the reign of Marcus Aurelius, and originally stood in the city’s central square for about 200 years. Reneta Karamanova led the restoration, using carbon rods from Italy to stabilize cracks. In October, the statue will be moved to the Archaeological Museum in Petrich for permanent display. Although the figure's identity remains unknown, it was clearly revered, possibly representing a prominent citizen. After a 4th-century earthquake, pagan locals hid it to protect it from early Christian iconoclasm. https://bntnews.bg/news/the-second-statue-discovered-at-heraclea-sintica-has-now-been-restored-photos-1350601news.html https://bnt.bg/news/archaeologists-discover-a-second-marble-statue-in-the-ancient-city-of-heraclea-sintica-see-video-and-pictures-332121news.html

An iron arrowhead was found in the skeletal remains of a suspected Parthian warrior unearthed in a Parthian cemetery in Liyarsangbon, Iran. Below are images of the arrowhead in well-healed leg wound. 🏺 Summary: Parthian-Era Trauma and Burial at Liyarsangbon 📍 Archaeological Context Site: Liyarsangbon Cemetery, in the Alborz Mountains of Guilan Province, northern Iran. Period: Parthian Era (247 BCE – 224 CE), a time of regional warfare and cultural synthesis. Burial: A crypt grave containing an adult male, aged 30–35, buried on his left side with flexed legs. ⚔️ Weaponry and Grave Goods Artifacts: Iron sword Arrowheads Spearhead Pottery vessels, including one with soot and bird remains—possibly ritualistic These items suggest the individual was likely a warrior or held martial status. 🦵 Healed Leg Wound Injury: Embedded three-bladed iron arrowhead in the right tibia. Healing Evidence: Dense bone growth around the arrowhead No signs of infection or extensive remodeling Interpretation: The individual survived the injury for a significant period, indicating resilience and possibly informal care. 🧪 Analytical Methods Osteological analysis confirmed trauma and healing. The typological study associated the arrowhead with Parthian military design. Contextual comparison with other burials in Iran and Mesopotamia reinforced the martial interpretation. 🏛️ Cultural Significance The burial reflects the militarized nature of Parthian society, especially in frontier zones. The healed wound provides rare evidence of trauma survival in antiquity. The assemblage helps improve understanding of Parthian identity, warfare, and mortuary practices. Study finds ancient Parthian man shot by an arrow which was never removed International Journal of Osteoarchaeology | Wiley Online Library Weaponry and a Healed Wound From the Parthian Era (247 bce to 224 ce): Insights From the Liyarsangbon Cemetery, Guilan, Iran

Archaeologists from Zadar, Croatia, continue their work on a Roman shipwreck near Sukošan in Barbir Bay. The shipwreck, dating to the first or second century AD, was first discovered four years ago when a 2,000-year-old wooden plank was found. Excavations have uncovered hundreds of olive pits on board (see below), suggesting the shipwreck was used in agricultural transport of nearby estates. 🛶 Summary of the Barbir Bay Roman Shipwreck Discovery 📍 Location & Discovery Site: Barbir Bay, near Sukošan, Croatia Discovery Timeline: First identified in 2018 by archaeologists from the International Centre for Underwater Archaeology in Zadar (ICUA Zadar) after spotting a timber plank with an iron nail. Full Excavation: Completed in 2025 after four and a half years of research. 🧱 Ship Details Date: 1st–2nd century CE Length: Approximately 12.5 meters (about 40 feet) Construction: Constructed from three different types of wood, each chosen for specific structural roles. Preservation: Exceptionally well-preserved, including rare upper works—an uncommon survival among ancient shipwrecks. 🧺 Cargo & Function Primary Use: Cargo transport vessel Contents Found: Hundreds of olive pits onboard Grape pits, peach pits, and walnut shells in the harbor area Implication: Likely used to ferry agricultural produce from nearby estates. 🌊 Final Voyage & Burial Probable Cause of Sinking: Suspected storm damage Preservation Strategy: After photogrammetric documentation, the wreck was reburied with geotextile and sand to preserve its integrity. Featured in National Geographic’s Lost Treasures of Rome and PBS’s Changing Seas in 2024 (see video below) Plans underway to create a 1:10 scale model for display at the Zadar Centre for Underwater Archaeology. 🏛️ Historical Context & Significance This shipwreck provides a rare insight into Roman maritime logistics along the Adriatic coast. Barbir Bay itself was part of a Roman harbor complex, likely serving estates and settlements in Dalmatia. The vessel’s sturdy construction and preserved cargo indicate a well-developed trade network, potentially connected to Roman villa economies or municipia provisioning routes. The use of multiple wood types reflects sophisticated shipbuilding knowledge—perhaps echoing techniques seen in Mediterranean navis onerariae (merchant ships). The presence of olive and grape remains aligns with the Roman emphasis on oil and wine as staple commodities, often transported in amphorae. https://allthatsinteresting.com/barbir-bay-croatia-roman-shipwreck https://www.croatiaweek.com/extraordinary-2000-year-old-roman-shipwreck-discovered-in-croatia/ Croatia was an ancient production center for olives: Zadar, Croatia, was a key Roman center for production and trade across the Empire.

Excavations have started at a Roman harbor near Cuijk in the Netherlands on the Meuse (Mass) River. The site, dating to the 4th century AD, is linked to a Roman fort believed to have been used for military supply and trade. 🏛️ Roman Underwater Excavation at Cuijk (Ceuclum), River Maas A rare and ambitious underwater excavation is taking place in Cuijk, Netherlands, uncovering a 4th-century Roman harbor structure submerged in the River Maas. This site provides a rare glimpse into late Roman logistics, military infrastructure, and frontier life—and it's being livestreamed for the public. 🔍 Key Discoveries Harbor Structure: A 7x40 meter Roman quay with well-preserved wooden pilings, part of a military and trade network connected to a nearby fort. Artifacts Found: Ceramic vessels, glass fragments, leather goods, metal tools, and imported stone. Organic materials preserved by waterlogged sediment: seeds, wood, and possibly food remnants. Historical Context: Cuijk served as a key point on the Lower Rhine frontier, essential for supplying troops and supporting river trade during Rome’s diminishing presence in the area. 🛠️ Excavation Techniques Divers utilize boreholes, geophysical surveys, and underwater suction systems to extract sediment without harming fragile remains. Timbers are documented and lifted for conservation. The project is led by Vestigia, Baars-CIPRO, MSDS Marine, and Mergor in Mosam, with support from citizen scientists. 🌊 From Preservation to Rescue Originally protected in place since 2006, the site experienced erosion due to increased river traffic and propeller wash. In 2025, Dutch authorities shifted to full recovery to prevent irreversible loss, aligning with a new national strategy for underwater heritage. 📺 Public Engagement The excavation is livestreamed at romeinenonderwater.nl, featuring daily video diaries and real-time footage from diver helmet cams. This transparency turns the dig into a cultural event, encouraging public involvement in rediscovering Roman history. 🧠 Broader Significance Few Roman harbor sites have been excavated in situ in the Netherlands. The Cuijk harbor shows how Rome supported frontier defense and civilian life through river logistics. It bridges military, economic, and daily life narratives at the empire’s edge. A livestream is available: Romans underwater – A dive into the past https://nos.nl/artikel/2583705-live-meekijken-bij-romeinse-onderwateropgraving-in-de-maas-zoiets-komt-maar-weinig-voor Roman Harbor Structures in the Maas: Underwater Excavation Yields Rare Finds – Live Streamed - Arkeonews

There have been numerous previous posts (see below) about Dura-Europos. Here is an excellent review video by Garrett Ryan, one of the most insightful content creators and educators on YouTube. Here is the video by Historum Militum about the Sassanian siege of Dura-Europos in AD 256 that is believed to have involved poison gas.

A “waiting bench” at the Villa of Mysteries in Pompeii has been unearthed. This is a bench where a Roman master usually receives his “clientes,” people of lower social status who had ties of some sort with an eminent figure of local society during the morning, as part of the ritual known as the “salutatio.” In exchange for favors, help in legal matters, and small or large loans, they hoped to secure political support. 🪑 Ancient “Waiting Bench” Unearthed at Pompeii’s Villa of the Mysteries Recent excavations at the Villa of the Mysteries in Pompeii have uncovered a public bench outside the villa’s main entrance, likely used by clientes, laborers, and beggars waiting for an audience with the Roman master of the house. This bench, made of opus signinum (crushed ceramic and lime mortar), reflects the Roman social custom of the salutatio, where lower-status individuals sought favors in exchange for political support. 🖋️ Graffiti and Social Insight Some of those waiting carved graffiti into the walls—names, dates, and idle markings—providing a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people excluded from the villa’s opulent interior. Director Gabriel Zuchtriegel highlights the contrast between elite privilege and public patience, comparing the bench to a crowded modern waiting room. 🏛️ Excavation Highlights The dig uncovered the villa’s grand entrance, decorative rooms in the Third Pompeian Style, and still-buried remnants of slave quarters. Stratigraphic layers from the AD 79 eruption remain intact, preserving pumice and pyroclastic deposits. Agricultural features such as shallow basins (conchette) were also identified, suggesting Roman rural land use. 🚧 Legal and Preservation Efforts Excavations resumed after demolishing illegal structures over the site, thanks to collaboration between the Archaeological Park and the Public Prosecutor’s Office. A fundraising initiative is underway to support continued research and site enhancement. https://pompeiisites.org/en/comunicati/pompeii-an-ancient-waiting-bench-uncovered-at-the-famous-villa-of-the-mysteries/ Video on discovery. Translations available.

Although this is an older story, I found it fascinating. A ceramic bowl, which was thought to be the earliest nonbiblical reference to Christ, was found in Alexandria, Egypt, in 2008 during underwater excavations. The bowl dates to the first century AD. Inscribed on the cup is “DIA CHRSTOU O GOISTAIS” “Through Christ the magician/chanter.” Here are some alternative interpretations: https://arkeonews.net/2000‑year‑old-jesus-cup-unearthed-in-alexandria-could-it-be-the-earliest-material-reference-to-christ/ The earliest known nonbiblical reference to Jesus comes from the Jewish historian Flavius Josephus, who wrote around 93–94 AD in his work Antiquities of the Jews. In Book 18, Chapter 3, he presents a passage called the Testimonium Flavianum, which describes Jesus as: “a wise man, if indeed one ought to call him a man… He was one who performed surprising deeds and was a teacher of such people as accept the truth gladly… He was the Christ…” However, this passage remains controversial. Most scholars agree that Christian scribes later edited it, though many believe it retains an authentic core written by Josephus himself. Another early reference comes from Tacitus, a Roman historian, who wrote around 116 AD in his Annals. He mentions: “Christus, from whom the name [Christian] had its origin, suffered the extreme penalty during the reign of Tiberius at the hands of one of our procurators, Pontius Pilatus…” Tacitus was hostile to Christianity, which makes his account especially valuable as an independent Roman source. There is also a possible reference from Thallus, a historian writing around 52 AD, who reportedly mentioned the darkness at Jesus’ crucifixion. His works are lost, but later writers like Julius Africanus cite him. So, while Josephus is often cited as the earliest surviving non-Christian reference, Thallus might have been earlier—though only indirectly preserved.

Archaeologists have unearthed in Northeastern Albania, a Roman-era mausoleum that dates from the third or fourth century AD. One of the inscriptions on the walls honors Jupiter. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/archaeologists-in-albania-unearth-tomb-belonging-to-an-upper-class-roman-who-died-1700-years-ago-180987341/

Here is a short video on the find: https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/1-600-year-old-coin-hoard-found-in-complex-tunnel-system-under-galilee-dates-to-last-jewish-rebellion-against-romans A previous post about the struggle of the Romans with the Ancient Jews:

A short video of a Mithraeum in Britain