Roman archaeological sites uncovered in Austria and Rome reveal extensive ancient production

Archaeologists from the University of Vienna, led by Dr Basema Hamarneh, uncovered the remains of a large Roman ceramic production complex in the Austrian town of Hannersdorf. Two kilns have been excavated, and geomagnetic surveys indicate that as many as a hundred additional kilns may lie beneath the field. The workshop dates to the 1st–2nd centuries AD and likely supplied pottery to a wide region of the Roman province of Pannonia.

In Rome, work to reinforce a historic wall at Villa Celimontana exposed a well‑preserved 2nd‑century AD Roman building. Archaeologists uncovered eight rooms, including five largely intact, with elaborate mosaics, painted ceilings and opus sectile decorations. The find, overseen by the Soprintendenza Speciale di Roma, suggests the structure was a high‑status residence or important public building, adding new insight into the history of the Celio hill.

Both discoveries expand knowledge of Roman‑era industrial and architectural activity in Central Europe.