A significant archaeological discovery has been made by a team from Baylor University, revealing an intact Etruscan tomb that dates back 2,600 years. This rare find was unearthed at the San Giuliano necropolis in central Italy. The burial chamber, which contains the remains of four individuals along with over 100 well-preserved grave goods, provides a unique opportunity to explore the beliefs and burial practices of the Etruscan civilization, a pre-Roman culture. Led by Dr. Davide Zori, the San Giuliano Archaeological Research Project (SGARP) uncovered the sealed tomb, which has not been disturbed since its sealing.

This level of preservation is highly unusual in Etruscan archaeology, where many sites have been looted over time. Situated about 70 kilometers northwest of Rome, the tomb dates to the 7th century BC, making it an invaluable resource for understanding Etruscan culture. Inside the chamber, the remains were found on intricately carved stone beds, surrounded by a remarkable collection of grave goods, including ceramic vases, iron weapons, bronze jewelry, and silver hair spools, all preserved in excellent condition. Preliminary investigations suggest that the individuals may consist of two male-female pairs, although further research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.

The SGARP is a collaborative effort involving archaeologists, historians, and students from various institutions. Baylor students have participated in the excavation and documentation processes since 2016, gaining experiential learning opportunities while helping to uphold Italian heritage laws. For many involved, the discovery has been a deeply emotional experience, signifying their contribution to a shared cultural heritage. This find not only enhances knowledge of Etruscan burial customs but also marks a pivotal moment for Mediterranean archaeology, asserting the Baylor-led team’s role in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and educational advancement in the field.