Home / Science / Ancient Roman City Unearthed Near Appian Way
Ancient Roman City Unearthed Near Appian Way
26 Feb
Summary
- An ancient city with a forum and theater was found near the Appian Way.
- Drone technology using thermal and multispectral sensors aided discovery.
- The ruins date between the second and first centuries B.C.
Archaeologists have uncovered an ancient Roman city, complete with a forum and a previously unknown theater, near the famed Appian Way in Flumeri, Avellino. The ruins, dating between the second and first centuries B.C., were located using advanced drone technology equipped with thermal and multispectral sensors. This multidisciplinary approach provided a detailed view of the buried urban center.
The excavation revealed a clearly defined orthogonal layout with regular street axes, indicative of newly founded Roman towns. Officials highlighted the discovery of the forum, a civil and commercial hub, and the monumental theater as proof of the city's social and cultural importance. The findings reinforce the historical and strategic role of Fioccaglia within the Roman road system.
Mayor Angelo Lanza expressed pride in the discovery, seeing it as a development opportunity for the region. Plans are underway to collaborate with the University and the Superintendency to enhance Fioccaglia's historical and cultural offering. This discovery follows other significant finds in Italy earlier in 2026, including love notes in Pompeii and a basilica tied to Vitruvius.
