Gladiator’s Tomb and Mysterious Traces of the Roman Empire Unearthed in the Ancient Roman City of Liternum

In Giugliano, Campania, Italy, Liternum, the silent witness of ancient Rome, has been unveiled like a time capsule with recent archaeological excavations. The Imperial era remains rising from beneath the soil bring the secrets of this ancient colony to the present day. Among the most striking discoveries of the excavations are two magnificent burial areas whispering from the dusty pages of history, a time-defying mausoleum, and a marble epitaph telling the epic story of a gladiator.

Since its establishment in the late 2nd century BC, Liternum held an important place in the heart of the Roman Empire. Especially with the construction of Via Domitiana, this colony, which experienced its golden age in the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, turned into a bustling trade center. The excavations, carried out with the meticulous work of archaeologist Dr. Simona Formola, revealed mysterious structures previously protected in a large area of 150 square meters.

The most remarkable findings of the excavation site were two high-status burial areas thought to belong to the wealthy and noble families of Rome. These structures, which preserve a large part of their original cladding, reveal the magnificence of the funeral ceremonies of the period. In addition, a quadrangular mausoleum built with the opus reticulatum technique proves that Liternum’s necropolis was used for generations. This mausoleum, with sides three meters long, attracts attention with its plastered niches where cinerary urns were placed.

Nearly twenty tombs unearthed in the excavations showcase the different burial traditions of ancient Rome. Human burials in cappuccina tombs, ad enchýtrismos burials in large ceramic vessels, and meticulously prepared box-shaped tombs reflect Liternum’s multicultural structure. Grave goods, including coins, oil lamps, and ceramic vessels, provide valuable information about the lifestyle and social interactions of the Liternum community.

However, the most exciting discovery of the excavations was a marble epitaph bearing the name of a gladiator. This rare find offers a unique perspective on how gladiators were perceived in Roman society. It also reveals that Liternum was not only a residential area but also the final resting place of gladiators after their struggles in the arena.

Superintendent Mariano Nuzzo emphasizes that the Giugliano region is entering a rich period of archaeological discoveries. The quality and preservation of the structures in Liternum allow us to better understand the history and cultural context of this ancient city.

These discoveries also bring new questions about the spatial organization of the Roman colony. In particular, new hypotheses are being generated about the settlement of the ancient Via Domitiana, which is traditionally surrounded by necropolises. As excavations continue and new findings are examined, the secrets of Liternum will be further illuminated, and more comprehensive information about Roman life in Campania will be obtained.

The directorate continues its commitment to protecting and passing on this invaluable cultural heritage to future generations. The remains of Liternum will continue to be a gateway to the fascinating world of ancient Rome for both the scientific community and visitors.

Superintendency for Archaeological Heritage, Fine Arts, and Landscape for the Metropolitan Area of Naples

Cover Image Credit: Soprintendenza Archeologia Belle Arti e Paesaggio per l’area metropolitana di Napoli. (Superintendency for Archaeological Heritage, Fine Arts, and Landscape for the Metropolitan Area of Naples)