Archaeologists in southern Switzerland have uncovered the remains of a Roman-era settlement dating to the second and third centuries AD, including a substantial masonry building and evidence of metalworking activity.
The discovery was made in the Stramonte area of Ligornetto, in the Mendrisiotto region of the canton of Ticino, where archaeological investigations began in June ahead of the construction of a new residential building.
Excavations near Via Mastri have revealed a Roman structure overlooking a small road and surrounded by an area apparently used for agricultural and artisanal activities.
The Archaeological Service of Ticino’s Cultural Heritage Office is carrying out the investigation, which covers approximately 500 square metres between Via Mastri and a stream running alongside the present-day Via Passeggiata.
The earliest remains uncovered at the site date to the final decades BC and include traces of wooden structures.
During the second century AD, however, the area underwent significant redevelopment. The ground was levelled and a substantial masonry building was constructed.
Archaeologists have so far identified six rooms within a structure measuring about eight metres wide and at least 11 metres long. The building continues westwards beyond the limits of the current excavation area, suggesting its full extent has yet to be established.
On its southern side was a portico approximately three metres wide, while two rooms measuring about 16 and 20 square metres have been investigated towards the rear.
Building destroyed by fire
The complex was modified during the second and third centuries AD, with new partition walls constructed and a platform added to the portico using reused bricks.
Its occupation appears to have ended dramatically during the third century, when a major fire swept through the building.
Archaeologists discovered extensive charcoal deposits associated with the blaze, while the building’s brick roof collapsed during the fire, preserving evidence of its destruction.
Despite the scale of the structure, its precise purpose has not yet been determined.
The absence of hearths and other features normally associated with domestic occupation suggests it was probably not primarily used as a residence.
Instead, discoveries around the building point towards economic and craft activities.
Researchers have found an unusually large quantity of iron slag and waste associated with bronze working in archaeological layers dating from the second and third centuries AD.
The material suggests substantial metalworking was taking place in the immediate vicinity.
Behind the building, archaeologists also identified a large area apparently used for agricultural and artisanal purposes. Postholes indicate that lightweight structures or temporary shelters once stood there, while a small pathway constructed from reused bricks may have provided access while also marking the boundary of a plot.
Evidence spanning more than 1,000 years
The latest discovery adds to extensive evidence of ancient occupation around Ligornetto and the wider Mendrisiotto region.
Archaeological finds indicate that people occupied the area over a long period, from the Iron Age and Roman period through to the Early Middle Ages.
During Roman rule, Ligornetto and the surrounding region fell within the sphere of influence of the important urban centres of Como and Milan.
Previously discovered inscriptions at Stabio and Ligornetto have provided evidence of families connected with individuals who held significant political positions in those cities.
The newly excavated site is also less than a kilometre from the Roman villa of San Pietro di Stabio.
Other archaeological discoveries in the region include settlements, funerary remains and evidence of places of worship, as well as numerous Lombard-period graves dating to the first half of the seventh century.
The Stramonte excavation is expected to continue until autumn 2026.
Archaeologists hope the investigation will provide a clearer picture of Roman settlement and economic activity in Mendrisiotto, particularly the role played by craft production and metalworking in the area.
Sources : Republic and Canton of Ticino
