Roman Villa and Drainage Systems Discovered During Construction!

In a remarkable find near Monastero, a suburb of Aquileia in northeastern Italy, archaeologists have uncovered significant Roman and Late Antique structures during the construction of a new cycling path along the Via Gemina. These discoveries offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of one of northern Italy’s most important Roman cities.

Photo Credit: Soprintendenza Archeologia, belle arti e paesaggio – Friuli Venezia Giulia

Discoveries Funded by EU Recovery Programmes

The project, supported by the European Union’s Next Generation EU initiative and Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), has brought to light residential and production complexes from Roman times and Late Antiquity. These findings illuminate the development and organisation of ancient Aquileia, once a thriving commercial and military hub connecting Rome with Emona (modern-day Ljubljana) and Tergeste (Trieste).

Commissioned by the Municipality of Aquileia and carried out by ArcheoTest s.r.l., the excavation work has been led by archaeologist Dario Gaddi and scientifically overseen by Serena Di Tonto from the Soprintendenza Archeologia, Belle Arti e Paesaggio del Friuli Venezia Giulia. Initial exploratory trenches, begun in January, confirmed the high archaeological potential of the area, first studied in the 19th century. Subsequent large-scale excavations were undertaken to fully explore the extent and chronology of the site.

Highlights of the Discoveries

Among the standout finds is a Roman-era residential complex featuring part of a preserved peristyle—a colonnaded courtyard that was typical of Roman homes. Originally used for production purposes, the complex later shifted to agricultural use in Late Antiquity, possibly linked to a nearby monastery. This evolution reflects the changing economic and social landscape of the region over centuries.

Another intriguing discovery is a grain processing facility, evidenced by a large grinding stone and deep grooves worn into the floor from extensive use. Additionally, advanced drainage systems incorporating amphoras were unearthed, demonstrating the ingenuity of Roman engineering. A funerary area was also discovered, containing a ceramic pot with bone remains and ashes, dating to a period when the site was repurposed as a cemetery.

Photo Credit: Soprintendenza Archeologia, belle arti e paesaggio – Friuli Venezia Giulia

Aquileia’s Historical Significance

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aquileia was a vital Roman commercial and military centre. While previous excavations in its northern suburbs focused mainly on monumental necropolises, these latest findings provide rare insights into the city’s residential and industrial activities.

Mayor Emanuele Zorino highlighted the importance of these discoveries, stating:

“The remains of Roman-era residential buildings with colonnades and porticos, along with evidence of cereal processing activities, greatly enrich our understanding of the fascinating development of the Roman city and its suburbs. It is crucial to protect and, if possible, enhance some of these structures for future generations.”

These discoveries not only deepen our understanding of Roman life in Aquileia but also emphasise the importance of preserving such heritage for future generations. As construction continues, archaeologists remain hopeful for further revelations along the Via Gemina.