2,250-Year-Old Monument Discovered Beneath Ancient Roman City Gabii

Stunning Archaeological Find in Gabii

Archaeologists have unearthed a massive, 2,250-year-old monument beneath the ancient city of Gabii, just 11 miles east of Rome. This incredible discovery offers a rare glimpse into how early Romans experimented with city planning, centuries before Rome became the center of the empire. The excavation, led by University of Missouri professor Marcello Mogetta, has revealed a monumental basin at the heart of Gabii, suggesting sophisticated urban design and water management skills among the city’s early inhabitants.

Aerial Image of Gabii excavation site

What Makes Gabii’s Monument Special?

Unlike Rome, Gabii’s urban layers were not built over, allowing archaeologists to study its original structures in remarkable detail. The newly uncovered basin hints at an advanced understanding of architecture and public spaces in ancient Italy. Gabii, once a powerful rival to Rome, seems to have been a hub of innovation, with city planners testing ideas that might have shaped Rome itself. Who knew ancient real estate was this competitive? Maybe HGTV needs a “Flip This Roman City” show.

This find adds a fascinating chapter to the story of early Roman civilization and highlights the importance of exploring lesser-known sites. Sometimes, the greatest treasures lie just beneath the surface—literally!

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