lived there more than 1800 years ago

According to scientists’ calculations, the former Roman settlement had an area of ​​15 hectares

Johannes Bergemann

In Italian Cilicia, during excavations, archaeologists found the remains of a Roman house with mosaics dating back to the II-IV centuries AD. The structure was part of a Roman village with an area of ​​15 hectares.

Archaeologists from the University of Göttingen (Germany) have been exploring the area in Cilicia for more than 20 years to study life and trade in ancient Roman times. writes Arkeonews.

In 2023, a team led by Dr. Johannes Bergemann conducted a geophysical survey of the soil surface near the city of Vizzini. The obtained data showed “anomalies” in the geomagnetic field and helped to create detailed images of the subsurface without preliminary excavations.

The measurements led the research team to the remains of the building, which were later excavated. It turned out that the structure had dimensions of 30 by 13 meters and was located shallowly below the surface of the earth.

Inside the premises, archaeologists found almost 100 square meters of mosaic floor. Some of the frescoes were destroyed due to tillage, Johannes Bergemann said.

Further research showed that there were also other rooms near the house that were used between the 2nd and 6th centuries AD.

According to scientists, the locals had “high wealth”. This is evidenced by the features of the buildings – they were found there columnsbuilt of rounded bricks, plastered and probably painted.

In their appearance, these parts of the premises resembled the columns that were in Pompeii, destroyed by the volcanic eruption.

Johannes Bergemann

In addition, archaeologists have unearthed remains at this site marble fountains and “luxurious” Roman pottery called Terra Sigillata.

According to scientists’ calculations, the settlement occupied approximately 15 hectares – on this territory there were large rural buildings and villas, as well as Roman agricultural objects. It is believed that the settlement was formed due to long-distance trade, which was widespread in the Roman Empire.

“This system of settlements, which were connected to the interior by intercity roads, lasted only a few centuries. The house we found near Vizzini is an important testimony of this era.”says Johannes Bergemann.

A team of archaeologists presented their finds during an event at the city hall of Vizzini on October 16.

It will be recalled that in Jordan, scientists discovered secret tomb with artifacts – previously the movie “Indiana Jones” was shot near it.