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The archaeological investigations at the ancient Roman city of Claterna, covering only a tenth of the site’s vast 18-hectare expanse, have yielded remarkable findings, according to statements by Undersecretary Lucia Borgonzoni. Describing it as the largest unstratified archaeological area in Northern Italy, Borgonzoni drew parallels to Pompeii in terms of historical significance and the abundance of unearthed artifacts.
The ongoing excavations have exposed various elements of Claterna’s rich history, including the forum, streets, domus with colourful mosaics, thermal facilities, and a theatre. Notable discoveries encompass around 3,000 silver and bronze coins, approximately fifty intricately carved gemstones dedicated to various deities, and diverse structures. Despite these findings, the research has only scratched the surface, investigating just one-tenth of the expansive site.
Borgonzoni expressed the Ministry’s commitment to valourizing Claterna with both financial resources and initiatives designed to breathe new life into the site. Collaborating with the Bologna Superintendent, the Ministry aims to engage local entities and institutions in activities intended to introduce the younger generation to this historically rich location and attract visitors from around the world. Among the considerations is the intriguing idea of restoring the theatre to its original function as a venue for performances.
During a presentation of the latest discoveries, Borgonzoni highlighted the involvement of the Ministry of Culture in funding interventions on the site. Notable findings included inscriptions, fragments of coloured marble, and a Quinario—a rare silver coin from the Roman Republic dated 97 B.C., found in a corridor of the theatre’s cavea, confirming the theatre’s construction in the late 1st century B.C. These discoveries suggest that Claterna was not merely a transit city but a thriving commercial hub with direct ties to Rome.
The meeting, attended by Bologna Superintendent Francesca Tomba, Regional MiC Director Corrado Azzollini, and Ozzano dell’Emilia Mayor Luca Lelli, emphasized the Ministry’s keen interest in preserving and showcasing Claterna’s invaluable heritage. With over 700,000 euros allocated for the triennium 2022-2024, additional funds are earmarked for archaeological excavations, restoration, and the enhancement of the Roman theatre.
Francesca Tomba underscored the significant aspect that a substantial portion of the area remains unexplored, paving the way for a comprehensive phase of knowledge acquisition and broad-ranging valorization of a site with much more to reveal. The pristine nature of the surroundings, situated in the countryside, adds another noteworthy characteristic to the site’s appeal.
