Etruscan bronze treasures and human remains found in ancient Italian well

Archaeologists excavating the ancient Etruscan city of Kainua near Marzabotto, Italy, have discovered a ritual well containing remarkably well-preserved bronze objects and human remains. The excavation, led by the University of Bologna in collaboration with the Ravenna Archaeological Group, uncovered two bronze female statuettes and a rare bronze bowl/plate at the bottom of the well.

The artifacts, which date to between the late sixth and early fifth centuries BC, have retained much of their original metallic luster due to the low-oxygen underwater environment. Researchers believe these items were deliberately deposited as votive offerings, possibly during ceremonies related to the foundation of the city. The well is located within the city’s sanctuary district, near temples dedicated to the deities Tinia and Uni.

In addition to the bronze objects, the remains of two adults—a man and a woman—were found at the site. While the bronze items are thought to be ritual offerings, archaeologists suggest the human remains may have served a different function related to the ritual closing of the structure.