Archaeologists excavating a site in Sirolo, in Italy’s central Le Marche region, have uncovered an exceptionally rare 6th-century BC Picene princely burial featuring a ceremonial two-wheeled chariot, alongside the remarkably well-preserved grave of a noblewoman.
The discoveries form part of a substantial Picene necropolis reserved for members of the region’s aristocratic elite. At its centre lies a monumental funerary circle containing the burial of a high-ranking individual interred with a currus—a two-wheeled chariot that symbolised aristocratic status. The grave also yielded an array of prestigious goods, including a helmet, an axe and other weapons.
Archaeologists say the funerary complex differs significantly from other known Picene burial monuments. While large funerary circles in the Piceno region are typically enclosed by annular ditches, the Sirolo monument was instead surrounded by a circular wooden palisade. The structure was identified through a series of evenly spaced postholes containing ritual deposits of carefully selected ceramic fragments, representing a funerary design not previously documented in the region.
Among the most intriguing finds are several large bronze vessels recovered from the princely tomb. Sealed with ceramic lids, the containers held organic material, animal remains and pottery fragments. Researchers believe these may represent the remains of a funerary feast or food offerings placed in the grave for the deceased.
A second burial, located beside the chariot tomb, belonged to a woman whose remains were preserved in exceptional condition. Organic materials, including fragments of textiles and footwear, survived within the grave, providing rare evidence of Picene funerary dress. Numerous fibulae used to fasten her garments and burial shroud were also recovered.
One particularly striking object is a large fibula set with an amber stone, discovered behind the woman’s head. Archaeologists believe it may have formed part of an elaborate headdress or hairstyle. The burial is expected to provide valuable insights into the status and role of elite women within Picene society.
Stefano Finocchi, the excavation’s scientific director, said the discovery has transformed understanding of the site.
“This discovery finally allows us to reconstruct the original context of the warrior’s tomb discovered in 2020 and place it within a larger funerary complex organised around a princely chariot burial,” Finocchi said.
“For the first time, we can observe not a single tomb, but an entire aristocratic group, with hierarchical and symbolic relationships that open up new perspectives on the structure of the elites who led the great Picene centre that developed in the area of present-day Conero.”
He added that the scale of the monument, the quality of the grave goods and artefacts still under study indicate the presence of powerful ruling groups connected through extensive networks spanning the central Adriatic and major centres across central Italy.
Header Image Credit : Archaeolab
Sources : Finestresullarte
