Ancient Treasures Unearthed in Italy’s San Casciano dei Bagni, Tied to Greek Mythology

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A trove of ancient artifacts, including statues, coins, jewellery, and even intact eggs from the Roman and Etruscan eras, has been uncovered at the thermal springs of San Casciano dei Bagni in southern Tuscany.

Among the discoveries is a potential connection to Greek mythology, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural life of the past.

Excavations, which began in 2019 in this hilltop town about 160 kilometers north of Rome, have revealed a sanctuary linked to the springs, which served as a place of healing and worship since the 3rd century BCE. Etruscans and Romans left offerings in the waters, preserved for centuries in the warm mud.

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it5Among the discoveries are bronze statues of men and women, snake sculptures, thousands of coins, a gold crown, and gemstones. Notably, one snake figure—nearly a metre long—is believed to represent Agathodaemon, a serpentine deity from Greek mythology.

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Depicted as a bearded figure with serpent horns, Agathodaemon was considered a protective spirit, possibly watching over the sacred springs. If confirmed, this would be the largest bronze statue of the god discovered, surpassing smaller examples housed in the British Museum and Naples’ National Archaeological Museum.

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In addition to the statues, archaeologists found thousands of eggshell fragments and whole eggs, some remarkably preserved with visible yolks. Branches adorned with plants and pine cones, likely votive offerings, were also uncovered.

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The site’s treasures will be showcased in a new museum slated to open in late 2026, celebrating the intersection of mythology, history, and archaeology preserved by the unique environment of the San Casciano springs.

(Source: Kathimerini/Reuters)