Archaeologists working in San Giorgio Bigarello, near Mantua, stumbled upon a vast necropolis dating back approximately 5,000 years.
The sheer scale of this find – 22 tombs unearthed so far – has surprised researchers. This unexpected number of burials, coupled with the quality of artifacts discovered within them, promises valuable insights into the lives of these prehistoric inhabitants.
The initial excavations, conducted in November 2023 and January-February 2024, revealed a handful of isolated tombs. Further investigation, however, unveiled that these were merely a fraction of a much larger cemetery. The exact boundaries of this necropolis remain undetermined, likely obscured by time.
The tombs themselves held a wealth of information. Many contained an array of exquisitely crafted flint weapons – daggers, flawless arrowheads, and various blades. These artifacts highlight the skill and sophistication of these ancient people.
Beyond weaponry, the archaeologists, led by Dr. Simone Sestito of the Mantua Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape Authority (SAP), unearthed intriguing jewelry. These necklaces, adorned with beads made from unidentified materials, raise questions about the chronology of the site and potentially point towards the 4th millennium BCE.
The majority of the burials followed a consistent pattern – individuals laid on their left sides with legs bent towards their chests and heads facing northwest. This standardized method of interment suggests a shared belief system or cultural practice among this community.
Since the resumption of excavations in January 2024, a staggering 19 additional graves have been uncovered, solidifying the theory that this was a designated cemetery rather than a random collection of burials. The shallow depth of the burials, with most lying only 40 centimeters below the surface, further underscores the potential for future discoveries at the site.
This discovery adds another layer to the rich archaeological tapestry of the Mantua region. Previously known for its Neolithic and Chalcolithic settlements, including the famous double burial of the “Lovers of Valdaro,” San Giorgio Bigarello continues to unveil its secrets. The unearthing of this vast Copper Age necropolis promises to enhance our understanding of the people who inhabited this area millennia ago, offering a glimpse into their lives, rituals, and craftsmanship. As excavations progress, we can expect even more fascinating details to emerge from this captivating archaeological find.