Italian archaeologists unveil rare 2,600-year-old tomb untouched by looters: 'Doorway to our ancestors'

The tomb is part of the Caiolo Necropolis within the San Giuliano archaeological area, some 30 miles north of Rome. The site is famous for housing other ancient burials, including the Queen's Tomb, the Tomb of the Stag and the Tomb of the Beds.

The newly discovered tomb has not been officially named, but authorities emphasized its significance - especially as it remained undisturbed for 2,600 years.

"Once the slab sealing the chamber was removed, numerous vessels immediately became visible," the ministry said in a statement translated from Italian to English.

"Some [were] fine painted ceramics, such as those near the entrance - deliberately placed according to a precise ritual performed before the tomb was sealed," the statement added. 

"On the left-hand bed, a basin and several bronze ornamental elements belonging to the deceased remain in situ."

The excavation was conducted under the supervision of the Superintendency of Viterbo and Southern Etruria, in partnership with Baylor University. 

Supervising archaeologist Barbara Barbaro said that the necropolis contains over 500 tombs, though most were looted by either ancient people or modern robbers - but not the most recent one. 

"That's what makes this discovery so exceptional."

Barbaro also said that further study on the site will be "fundamental to advancing knowledge of the ancient world."

"A sealed context is crucial not only for preservation but also because it gives us a complete snapshot of life through the ritual of death," she added.

Reflecting on the emotional weight of the find, Barbaro compared the discovery of the tomb to "a bridge to our past, a doorway to our ancestors."