Ancient statues, coins, jewels, and still-intact eggs from Roman and Etruscan times have been unearthed from thermal baths in southern Tuscany, Italy, as announced by the country’s culture ministry. The ongoing excavation in San Casciano dei Bagni, a town located around 100 miles north of Rome, has led to remarkable discoveries over the past few years.
The town had a shrine associated with hot water springs known for their healing properties dating back to the 3rd century B.C. Etruscans and Romans used to make offerings at the site, which are now being uncovered by archaeologists.
Among the recent findings, found nearly 16 feet below the surface, are bronze sculptures depicting both male and female figures, including a sculpture of a man cut in half lengthwise. Additionally, thousands of coins, a gold crown and ring, precious stones, and other sculptures have been recovered.
The excavation also revealed thousands of egg shells, some of which were still intact with the yolk inside, along with twigs adorned with plants and pine cones, all believed to be offerings made at the sanctuary.
The artifacts from San Casciano are thought to have been preserved by the warm mud of the springs over the centuries. Plans are underway to exhibit these discoveries in a new museum set to open in the town in late 2026.
