Construction crews working on a highway in Italy made a remarkable discovery when they uncovered the remains of an ancient sanctuary. This find sparked an archaeological investigation, as announced by the Italian Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape in a press release on May 19.
Location and Initial Discovery
The sanctuary was discovered in Ponso, a town located about 45 miles southwest of Venice. The workers, employed by Veneto Strade S.p.A., were constructing a new road from Borgo Veneto to Carceri. They uncovered the site while carrying out wartime ordnance clearance operations. These findings date back to the fifth century B.C.
Archaeological Findings
The initial discoveries led to further excavation by archaeologists. They have identified large rectangular foundation structures that are believed to be temples. Among these structures is one surrounded by a row of columns, indicative of a peripteral temple.
The site revealed inscriptions both in Latin and in Venetic script, a language used by the Veneti people of northeastern Italy before Roman rule. Many stones appear to have been reused in paving, while some remain in situ. The paving likely dates to the 1st century A.D.
“The paving appears to have been constructed during the 1st century A.D., according to evidence currently under study,” the release noted.
Significance of the Discovery
Images from the site showcase Venetic inscriptions, with column fragments and stone blocks thought to be part of the temple complex. The inscriptions often have a votive character, suggesting a religious purpose.
The discovery suggests that a branch of the Adige River flooded the area in antiquity. This sanctuary complex offers insights into ancient northeastern Italy’s religious practices. Early findings indicate that the site continued to be used and transformed over time rather than being abandoned.
“The site appears to have retained an important function during Roman times as well, although expressed through different forms and cultural frameworks than in the earlier phase,” the statement added.
Ongoing Research and Broader Context
Research continues as archaeologists investigate this historical site. The discovery adds to a series of significant archaeological finds in Italy. In Trento last year, archaeologists uncovered a massive Iron Age necropolis. Additionally, in 2026, an ancient Roman city was unearthed near the historic Appian Way, a UNESCO World Heritage site.