Unearthing Luxury and History
In 1993, an extraordinary archaeological discovery unfolded at Vallerano, located on the Via Laurentina, just south of Rome. A sarcophagus was unearthed, revealing the remarkably preserved remains of a young girl estimated to be between 16 and 18 years old. Dating back to the latter half of the 2nd century AD, this burial site dazzled researchers with its opulent treasures: a stunning array of gold jewelry, precious gemstones, and other exquisite artifacts.
A Wealth of Treasures
Among the treasures found were intricate gold necklaces, amulets, rings, and cameo brooches adorned with emeralds, sapphires, diamonds, amethysts, sardonyx, and garnets. The burial also included amber hairpins, a sizable silver hand-mirror embellished with a mythological scene in high relief, and a silver scallop shell, likely used for aromatic oils.
The Exhibition: “The Mystery of a Young Girl”
Unveiling History’s Finest
These sensational artifacts make their debut in the exhibition titled “The Mystery of a Young Girl” at the Accademia Valentino in Piazza Mignanelli, Rome. Running until February 18, the exhibition showcases not only the unparalleled opulence of this discovery but also other significant finds from contemporaneous girls’ graves. Following its Rome debut, the exhibition will travel to the Palazzo Reale in Milan from mid-March to mid-May and then to Verona during the summer.
The Golden Age of the Roman Empire
Prosperity and Peace
The 2nd century AD, famously described by Edward Gibbon as the pinnacle of Roman prosperity in “The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire,” witnessed minimal military conflicts and marked a flourishing era under emperors like Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius (138-180 AD). This period showcased Rome’s affluence through a global influx of luxury goods, affirming its status as a hub of wealth and cultural exchange.
Origins of Precious Stones
Tracing Ancient Trade Routes
The gemstones discovered in the Vallerano tomb offer a window into ancient trade routes. Diamonds hailed from India, sapphires from Sri Lanka, and emeralds from Egypt—all reaching Rome through extensive trade networks. Palmyra, a pivotal Syrian oasis-city, played a crucial role as a trading hub where merchants facilitated these exchanges, spanning from the Danube to Spain, enriching Roman society with exotic goods and influences.
Previous Discoveries and Cultural Insights
Echoes of History
The Vallerano find echoes similar discoveries: from a girl’s grave in the late 15th century, now lost, to Crepereia Tryphaena’s jewels found in 1889 at Prati di Castello, and further finds at Mentana in 1954 and Via Cassia in 1964, including an ivory doll. These dolls, possibly crafted by Syrian artisans, featured intricate details and articulated joints, reflecting a poignant cultural practice of burying children with their cherished possessions.
Symbolism and Legacy
While these artifacts may not have held religious significance, their lavish burial underscores Roman beliefs in the afterlife and the value placed on personal possessions. The inclusion of dolls, mirrors, and miniature jewelry suggests a tender regard for children and their autonomous existence, shedding light on the social customs of the time.
Conclusion
A Glimpse into Ancient Rome
The discovery at Vallerano offers a captivating glimpse into ancient Roman life and customs. The artifacts unearthed, now on display in the “The Mystery of a Young Girl” exhibition, illuminate the opulence and global connections of the Roman Empire during its apex. These discoveries not only enrich our understanding of Roman civilization but also highlight its complexities and enduring legacies as we continue to explore and interpret these ancient treasures.
