Roman grave altar found in Italy’s Torre River
Archaeologists have unearthed a Roman grave altar partially submerged in the Torre river in San Vito al Torre, Italy
A partially submerged grave altar dating back to the Roman Empire has been discovered in the Torre river in San Vito al Torre, in the province of Udine in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of Italy.
The discovery was made after Ervino Silvestri noticed a partially exposed limestone block and contacted the local authorities.
Archaeologists from the ABAP FVG Inspectorate carried out excavations to remove the ancient grave altar and learn more about the surrounding archaeological stratigraphy.
On its obverse, set within a molded frame, is an inscription referring to the “gen Apinia,” probably referring to family genes sharing the same nomen gentilicium and claiming descent from a common ancestor.
On one of the sides is an image of the winged Erotes, a winged god typically associated with love in ancient Greek mythology.
The back side of the altar appears to be rough-hewn and somewhat damaged, possibly as a result of prolonged exposure to the flowing water of the river.
According to the ABAP FVG Inspectorate, a survey of the area also yielded a stone grave altar urn, two limestone pedestals, several fragments of tile and brick, and a limestone face.
Source: Newsroom
