Archaeologists from the French National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research (INRAP) have uncovered a necropolis, or “city of the dead,” near the town of Île-Rousse. This discovery, containing around 40 ancient graves, rewrites our understanding of the island’s population density and burial practices during the first millennium AD.
Île-Rousse, a charming fishing village today, holds a rich history beneath its picturesque surface. While evidence of past settlements existed, they were fragmented and offered only glimpses into the lives of those who came before. The necropolis discovery, however, paints a more vivid picture.
The story began in 2019 with the excavation of a dozen graves. Further exploration in early 2023 unearthed a significant expansion of the necropolis, revealing a remarkable variety in burial styles. Interestingly, the archaeologists found amphorae – large jars typically used for transporting goods like wine and olive oil – repurposed as coffins.
While amphora burials were more commonly used for children, this necropolis presented a unique twist. The researchers discovered the remains of adults laid to rest within these repurposed vessels. Radiocarbon dating suggests these burials occurred between the 3rd and 6th centuries AD.
The location of the necropolis, right behind the 19th-century Church of the Immaculate Conception, further fuels the intrigue. Some graves were lined with terracotta materials resembling Roman roof tiles, hinting at a possible Roman connection. However, the island’s complex history suggests further investigation is necessary.
Corsica, strategically located in the Mediterranean, witnessed a period of significant political flux during the first millennium. The island transitioned from Carthaginian rule (until 240 BC) to Roman control, with later influences from Visigoths, Vandals, Ostrogoths, and ultimately, the Byzantine Empire.
The discovery of this densely populated necropolis challenges previous assumptions about the island’s population density during this period. INRAP suggests that the number of inhabitants might have been significantly higher than previously believed.
The presence of a necropolis near a place of worship is another intriguing clue. It’s possible that further excavations could reveal more about the religious practices and societal structures of these ancient Corsican communities.
The necropolis of Île-Rousse offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era. It serves as a potent reminder that even beneath idyllic tourist destinations, the whispers of the past await those who listen closely. As archaeologists delve deeper into this discovery, we can expect to learn much more about the lives and legacies of those who called this island home centuries ago.