An extraordinary archaeological discovery was unveiled in the heart of Rome's ancient imperial district. Roberto Gualtieri, the Mayor of Rome, announced the unearthing of a colossal marble head in the area of the Trajan Forum. "A fascinating discovery," remarked Gualtieri. "It comes from the heart of imperial Rome, in an area where once stood the imposing Porticus Trisigmentata with monolithic columns nearly 12 meters high," according to ANSA.
The find was made possible through a series of excavations initiated in the Trajan Forum area, funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). These efforts led to the recovery of a piece of Roman history—a massive marble head that has captured the attention of archaeologists and historians alike.
For centuries, the marble head remained preserved beneath the square of the Forum of Trajan, hidden underground between Via dei Fori and the Monti district. Its unveiling surprised archaeologists, revealing a male face with thick hair and an intense expression. The head undoubtedly belongs to a statue of imposing dimensions, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Roman art and culture.
Archaeologists are now working diligently to unveil the identity of the marble head. They immediately began examinations to gather as much information as possible about this incredible work of art. The head resurfaced from a medieval layer rich in ancient materials. "A fragment of memory that re-emerges to tell us something again," described Gualtieri.
"Rome never ceases to amaze. Beneath our feet, every day, lives a millenary story that continues to move the world," stated Gualtieri in a post on Facebook. He added, "One thing is certain: Rome continues to give us unique emotions that connect us to the past and project us into the future with even more pride."
The area where the marble head was found was once the site of the imposing Porticus Trisigmentata, known for its enormous monolithic columns that reached nearly twelve meters in height. This historical context adds depth to the discovery, emphasizing the architectural and artistic achievements of imperial Rome.
To date, little is known about the person depicted by the statue to which the head belonged. Analyses are ongoing as experts attempt to solve this exciting puzzle. The studies will particularly focus on unveiling the identity of the marble head, aiming to shed light on its origins.
The discovery not only enriches Rome's vast archaeological heritage but also underscores the city's enduring connection to its past. "It's like a fragment of memory that resurfaces to tell us something again," Gualtieri aptly put.
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