There were exactly one thousand, in round numbers, the gold coins contained in the Roman amphora, each weighing 4.5 grams. In addition, in the container were three earrings, three rings and the fragment of an ingot.

Kane Khanh | Archeaology
November 21, 2023

The Roman Treasure of Como

There were exactly one thousand, in round numbers, the gold coins contained in the Roman amphora, each weighing 4.5 grams. In addition, in the container were three earrings, three rings, and the fragment of an ingot. The Superintendency has completed the analysis of the Roman treasure discovered in Como at the beginning of September, in the excavation of the former Cressoni theatre. A find defined from the beginning as “epochal”, with finds from the first imperial age up to the fifth century.

The 1000 coins kept in the soapstone vase date back to 472-474 after Christ. To analyze the material contained in the container, a micro-excavation was carried out in the laboratories of the Superintendence which required weeks of work. “The withdrawal of the coins was carried out with a stratigraphic criterion in order to allow the reconstruction of the piles present inside the container,” the experts explain.

As the excavation continued, the archaeologists couldn’t contain their excitement. The discovery of such a significant Roman treasure was a dream come true. The soapstone vase, with its delicate engravings and ancient aura, held within it a glimpse into the past. The coins, meticulously stacked in piles, revealed the wealth and prosperity of that era.

The experts carefully removed each coin, marveling at the craftsmanship and the history they held. The inscriptions on the coins told stories of emperors, conquests, and the daily lives of the Romans. Each coin was a tiny window into a world long gone.

Among the coins, the three earrings and three rings added an intriguing touch to the discovery. Who wore these pieces of jewelry? Were they lost or intentionally hidden? The fragment of an ingot hinted at the presence of a skilled metalworker, perhaps someone who crafted these treasures themselves.

Weeks turned into months as the experts painstakingly examined and documented every detail of the Roman treasure. Each item was carefully photographed, measured, and cataloged. The team worked tirelessly to unravel the mysteries concealed within the amphora.

Finally, the analysis was complete. The Superintendency had gathered a wealth of knowledge about the Roman treasure. Their findings would not only contribute to the understanding of the past but also capture the imagination of people around the world. The discovery of this ancient treasure was truly “epochal” and would forever be remembered as a significant moment in history.