An initial Roman-era necropolis consisting of 220 graves—burials dating from the Augustan age to the early 2nd century AD, during the height of Roman Padua—was discovered during excavations carried out between 2022 and 2023 as part of the construction of a new student residence for the University of Padua, located at the former SEEF site on Via Campagnola. The graves, arranged in closely grouped clusters, suggest familial ties, and the quality of the burial goods indicates that the deceased belonged to a middle social class.
In 2024, following the inauguration of the new classrooms, renovation work began—and is still ongoing—on the buildings along Via Campagnola. During these renovations, tombs predating the Roman ones were unearthed, dating back to the protohistoric period. While precise dating awaits further analysis of the materials, it is believed that these burials span from the 6th–5th century BC up to the early stages of Romanization. So far, about ten tombs have been found, including several dolium burials (large jars containing bones and grave goods), as well as wooden and stone coffin burials.
One of the most fascinating discoveries is a horse burial, which holds strong symbolic and ritual significance. In this grave, a horse was interred alongside a large dolium. This and other dolia have been extracted, taken to a lab for thorough analysis, and subsequently restored.
The richest grave, found in a large square wooden coffin, contains at least 36 items, including two ossuary jars, various ceramic artifacts, and some bronze and iron objects, indicating a high social status.
"This is an extraordinarily significant acquisition for archaeological research," explained Superintendent Vincenzo Tiné. "This new northern necropolis allows us to confirm that the boundaries of the ancient Venetic city essentially coincide with those of the Roman city, definitively clarifying the impressive urban scale of early Padua."
"The work initiated by the University of Padua to create new spaces for teaching and student life has brought to light an archaeological heritage of great value," stated Daniela Mapelli, Rector of the University of Padua. "This discovery enriches our understanding of Padua’s history and once again highlights the value of synergy between urban development, scientific research, and heritage preservation. Through these projects, the University contributes not only to education and innovation but also to the enhancement of the city's historical legacy."
[summary] => [format] => 2 [safe_value] =>An initial Roman-era necropolis consisting of 220 graves—burials dating from the Augustan age to the early 2nd century AD, during the height of Roman Padua—was discovered during excavations carried out between 2022 and 2023 as part of the construction of a new student residence for the University of Padua, located at the former SEEF site on Via Campagnola. The graves, arranged in closely grouped clusters, suggest familial ties, and the quality of the burial goods indicates that the deceased belonged to a middle social class.
In 2024, following the inauguration of the new classrooms, renovation work began—and is still ongoing—on the buildings along Via Campagnola. During these renovations, tombs predating the Roman ones were unearthed, dating back to the protohistoric period. While precise dating awaits further analysis of the materials, it is believed that these burials span from the 6th–5th century BC up to the early stages of Romanization. So far, about ten tombs have been found, including several dolium burials (large jars containing bones and grave goods), as well as wooden and stone coffin burials.
One of the most fascinating discoveries is a horse burial, which holds strong symbolic and ritual significance. In this grave, a horse was interred alongside a large dolium. This and other dolia have been extracted, taken to a lab for thorough analysis, and subsequently restored.
The richest grave, found in a large square wooden coffin, contains at least 36 items, including two ossuary jars, various ceramic artifacts, and some bronze and iron objects, indicating a high social status.
"This is an extraordinarily significant acquisition for archaeological research," explained Superintendent Vincenzo Tiné. "This new northern necropolis allows us to confirm that the boundaries of the ancient Venetic city essentially coincide with those of the Roman city, definitively clarifying the impressive urban scale of early Padua."
"The work initiated by the University of Padua to create new spaces for teaching and student life has brought to light an archaeological heritage of great value," stated Daniela Mapelli, Rector of the University of Padua. "This discovery enriches our understanding of Padua’s history and once again highlights the value of synergy between urban development, scientific research, and heritage preservation. Through these projects, the University contributes not only to education and innovation but also to the enhancement of the city's historical legacy."
[safe_summary] => ) ) ) [field_date_box_lancio_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => 2025-05-23T00:00:00 [timezone] => Europe/Paris [timezone_db] => Europe/Paris [date_type] => date ) ) ) [field_etichetta_box_lancio_news] => Array ( ) [field_img_box_lancio_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [fid] => 140068 [uid] => 2032 [filename] => PD25CMP70_13052025 (23).jpg [uri] => public://PD25CMP70_13052025 (23)_0.jpg [filemime] => image/jpeg [filesize] => 37267 [status] => 1 [timestamp] => 1747984634 [type] => image [field_file_image_alt_text] => Array ( ) [field_file_image_title_text] => Array ( ) [field_folder] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [tid] => 2048 ) ) ) [metadata] => Array ( [height] => 227 [width] => 677 ) [height] => 227 [width] => 677 [alt] => excavation [title] => ) ) ) [field_link_alla_news] => Array ( ) [field_link_esterno_news] => Array ( ) [field_pagina_associata] => Array ( ) [field_link_etichetta] => Array ( ) [field_abstract_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => New tombs, older than the Roman ones and dating back to the protohistoric age, have been discovered during the ongoing renovation work on the buildings along Via Campagnola [format] => [safe_value] => New tombs, older than the Roman ones and dating back to the protohistoric age, have been discovered during the ongoing renovation work on the buildings along Via Campagnola ) ) ) [field_allegato_news] => Array ( ) [field_categorie_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [tid] => 2296 ) ) ) [field_pub_date] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => 2025-05-23T00:00:00 [value2] => 2026-05-23T00:00:00 [timezone] => Europe/Paris [timezone_db] => Europe/Paris [date_type] => date ) ) ) [field_layout_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => single ) ) ) [field_testo_opzionale_news] => Array ( ) [field_url_en_page] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => /news/nuova-necropoli-compare-dagli-scavi-complesso-unipd-campagnola [format] => [safe_value] => /news/nuova-necropoli-compare-dagli-scavi-complesso-unipd-campagnola ) ) ) [field_url_en_page_label] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => Italian version [format] => [safe_value] => Italian version ) ) ) [path] => Array ( [pathauto] => 1 ) [name] => francesca.forzan [picture] => 0 [data] => b:0; [num_revisions] => 3 [current_revision_id] => 492365 [is_current] => 1 [is_pending] => [revision_moderation] => [entity_view_prepared] => 1 ) [#items] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] =>An initial Roman-era necropolis consisting of 220 graves—burials dating from the Augustan age to the early 2nd century AD, during the height of Roman Padua—was discovered during excavations carried out between 2022 and 2023 as part of the construction of a new student residence for the University of Padua, located at the former SEEF site on Via Campagnola. The graves, arranged in closely grouped clusters, suggest familial ties, and the quality of the burial goods indicates that the deceased belonged to a middle social class.
In 2024, following the inauguration of the new classrooms, renovation work began—and is still ongoing—on the buildings along Via Campagnola. During these renovations, tombs predating the Roman ones were unearthed, dating back to the protohistoric period. While precise dating awaits further analysis of the materials, it is believed that these burials span from the 6th–5th century BC up to the early stages of Romanization. So far, about ten tombs have been found, including several dolium burials (large jars containing bones and grave goods), as well as wooden and stone coffin burials.
One of the most fascinating discoveries is a horse burial, which holds strong symbolic and ritual significance. In this grave, a horse was interred alongside a large dolium. This and other dolia have been extracted, taken to a lab for thorough analysis, and subsequently restored.
The richest grave, found in a large square wooden coffin, contains at least 36 items, including two ossuary jars, various ceramic artifacts, and some bronze and iron objects, indicating a high social status.
"This is an extraordinarily significant acquisition for archaeological research," explained Superintendent Vincenzo Tiné. "This new northern necropolis allows us to confirm that the boundaries of the ancient Venetic city essentially coincide with those of the Roman city, definitively clarifying the impressive urban scale of early Padua."
"The work initiated by the University of Padua to create new spaces for teaching and student life has brought to light an archaeological heritage of great value," stated Daniela Mapelli, Rector of the University of Padua. "This discovery enriches our understanding of Padua’s history and once again highlights the value of synergy between urban development, scientific research, and heritage preservation. Through these projects, the University contributes not only to education and innovation but also to the enhancement of the city's historical legacy."
[summary] => [format] => 2 [safe_value] =>An initial Roman-era necropolis consisting of 220 graves—burials dating from the Augustan age to the early 2nd century AD, during the height of Roman Padua—was discovered during excavations carried out between 2022 and 2023 as part of the construction of a new student residence for the University of Padua, located at the former SEEF site on Via Campagnola. The graves, arranged in closely grouped clusters, suggest familial ties, and the quality of the burial goods indicates that the deceased belonged to a middle social class.
In 2024, following the inauguration of the new classrooms, renovation work began—and is still ongoing—on the buildings along Via Campagnola. During these renovations, tombs predating the Roman ones were unearthed, dating back to the protohistoric period. While precise dating awaits further analysis of the materials, it is believed that these burials span from the 6th–5th century BC up to the early stages of Romanization. So far, about ten tombs have been found, including several dolium burials (large jars containing bones and grave goods), as well as wooden and stone coffin burials.
One of the most fascinating discoveries is a horse burial, which holds strong symbolic and ritual significance. In this grave, a horse was interred alongside a large dolium. This and other dolia have been extracted, taken to a lab for thorough analysis, and subsequently restored.
The richest grave, found in a large square wooden coffin, contains at least 36 items, including two ossuary jars, various ceramic artifacts, and some bronze and iron objects, indicating a high social status.
"This is an extraordinarily significant acquisition for archaeological research," explained Superintendent Vincenzo Tiné. "This new northern necropolis allows us to confirm that the boundaries of the ancient Venetic city essentially coincide with those of the Roman city, definitively clarifying the impressive urban scale of early Padua."
"The work initiated by the University of Padua to create new spaces for teaching and student life has brought to light an archaeological heritage of great value," stated Daniela Mapelli, Rector of the University of Padua. "This discovery enriches our understanding of Padua’s history and once again highlights the value of synergy between urban development, scientific research, and heritage preservation. Through these projects, the University contributes not only to education and innovation but also to the enhancement of the city's historical legacy."
[safe_summary] => ) ) [#formatter] => text_summary_or_trimmed [0] => Array ( [#markup] =>An initial Roman-era necropolis consisting of 220 graves—burials dating from the Augustan age to the early 2nd century AD, during the height of Roman Padua—was discovered during excavations carried out between 2022 and 2023 as part of the construction of a new student residence for the University of Padua, located at the former SEEF site on Via Campagnola.
) ) [field_img_box_lancio_news] => Array ( [#theme] => field [#weight] => 0 [#title] => Immagine [#access] => 1 [#label_display] => above [#view_mode] => teaser [#language] => und [#field_name] => field_img_box_lancio_news [#field_type] => image [#field_translatable] => 0 [#entity_type] => node [#bundle] => box_lancio_news [#object] => stdClass Object ( [vid] => 492365 [uid] => 2032 [title] => A new necropolis emerges from excavations for the Campagnola Unipd complex [log] => [status] => 1 [comment] => 0 [promote] => 1 [sticky] => 0 [nid] => 118807 [type] => box_lancio_news [language] => it [created] => 1747984634 [changed] => 1747985182 [tnid] => 0 [translate] => 0 [revision_timestamp] => 1747985182 [revision_uid] => 2032 [body] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] =>An initial Roman-era necropolis consisting of 220 graves—burials dating from the Augustan age to the early 2nd century AD, during the height of Roman Padua—was discovered during excavations carried out between 2022 and 2023 as part of the construction of a new student residence for the University of Padua, located at the former SEEF site on Via Campagnola. The graves, arranged in closely grouped clusters, suggest familial ties, and the quality of the burial goods indicates that the deceased belonged to a middle social class.
In 2024, following the inauguration of the new classrooms, renovation work began—and is still ongoing—on the buildings along Via Campagnola. During these renovations, tombs predating the Roman ones were unearthed, dating back to the protohistoric period. While precise dating awaits further analysis of the materials, it is believed that these burials span from the 6th–5th century BC up to the early stages of Romanization. So far, about ten tombs have been found, including several dolium burials (large jars containing bones and grave goods), as well as wooden and stone coffin burials.
One of the most fascinating discoveries is a horse burial, which holds strong symbolic and ritual significance. In this grave, a horse was interred alongside a large dolium. This and other dolia have been extracted, taken to a lab for thorough analysis, and subsequently restored.
The richest grave, found in a large square wooden coffin, contains at least 36 items, including two ossuary jars, various ceramic artifacts, and some bronze and iron objects, indicating a high social status.
"This is an extraordinarily significant acquisition for archaeological research," explained Superintendent Vincenzo Tiné. "This new northern necropolis allows us to confirm that the boundaries of the ancient Venetic city essentially coincide with those of the Roman city, definitively clarifying the impressive urban scale of early Padua."
"The work initiated by the University of Padua to create new spaces for teaching and student life has brought to light an archaeological heritage of great value," stated Daniela Mapelli, Rector of the University of Padua. "This discovery enriches our understanding of Padua’s history and once again highlights the value of synergy between urban development, scientific research, and heritage preservation. Through these projects, the University contributes not only to education and innovation but also to the enhancement of the city's historical legacy."
[summary] => [format] => 2 [safe_value] =>An initial Roman-era necropolis consisting of 220 graves—burials dating from the Augustan age to the early 2nd century AD, during the height of Roman Padua—was discovered during excavations carried out between 2022 and 2023 as part of the construction of a new student residence for the University of Padua, located at the former SEEF site on Via Campagnola. The graves, arranged in closely grouped clusters, suggest familial ties, and the quality of the burial goods indicates that the deceased belonged to a middle social class.
In 2024, following the inauguration of the new classrooms, renovation work began—and is still ongoing—on the buildings along Via Campagnola. During these renovations, tombs predating the Roman ones were unearthed, dating back to the protohistoric period. While precise dating awaits further analysis of the materials, it is believed that these burials span from the 6th–5th century BC up to the early stages of Romanization. So far, about ten tombs have been found, including several dolium burials (large jars containing bones and grave goods), as well as wooden and stone coffin burials.
One of the most fascinating discoveries is a horse burial, which holds strong symbolic and ritual significance. In this grave, a horse was interred alongside a large dolium. This and other dolia have been extracted, taken to a lab for thorough analysis, and subsequently restored.
The richest grave, found in a large square wooden coffin, contains at least 36 items, including two ossuary jars, various ceramic artifacts, and some bronze and iron objects, indicating a high social status.
"This is an extraordinarily significant acquisition for archaeological research," explained Superintendent Vincenzo Tiné. "This new northern necropolis allows us to confirm that the boundaries of the ancient Venetic city essentially coincide with those of the Roman city, definitively clarifying the impressive urban scale of early Padua."
"The work initiated by the University of Padua to create new spaces for teaching and student life has brought to light an archaeological heritage of great value," stated Daniela Mapelli, Rector of the University of Padua. "This discovery enriches our understanding of Padua’s history and once again highlights the value of synergy between urban development, scientific research, and heritage preservation. Through these projects, the University contributes not only to education and innovation but also to the enhancement of the city's historical legacy."
[safe_summary] => ) ) ) [field_date_box_lancio_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => 2025-05-23T00:00:00 [timezone] => Europe/Paris [timezone_db] => Europe/Paris [date_type] => date ) ) ) [field_etichetta_box_lancio_news] => Array ( ) [field_img_box_lancio_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [fid] => 140068 [uid] => 2032 [filename] => PD25CMP70_13052025 (23).jpg [uri] => public://PD25CMP70_13052025 (23)_0.jpg [filemime] => image/jpeg [filesize] => 37267 [status] => 1 [timestamp] => 1747984634 [type] => image [field_file_image_alt_text] => Array ( ) [field_file_image_title_text] => Array ( ) [field_folder] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [tid] => 2048 ) ) ) [metadata] => Array ( [height] => 227 [width] => 677 ) [height] => 227 [width] => 677 [alt] => excavation [title] => ) ) ) [field_link_alla_news] => Array ( ) [field_link_esterno_news] => Array ( ) [field_pagina_associata] => Array ( ) [field_link_etichetta] => Array ( ) [field_abstract_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => New tombs, older than the Roman ones and dating back to the protohistoric age, have been discovered during the ongoing renovation work on the buildings along Via Campagnola [format] => [safe_value] => New tombs, older than the Roman ones and dating back to the protohistoric age, have been discovered during the ongoing renovation work on the buildings along Via Campagnola ) ) ) [field_allegato_news] => Array ( ) [field_categorie_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [tid] => 2296 ) ) ) [field_pub_date] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => 2025-05-23T00:00:00 [value2] => 2026-05-23T00:00:00 [timezone] => Europe/Paris [timezone_db] => Europe/Paris [date_type] => date ) ) ) [field_layout_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => single ) ) ) [field_testo_opzionale_news] => Array ( ) [field_url_en_page] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => /news/nuova-necropoli-compare-dagli-scavi-complesso-unipd-campagnola [format] => [safe_value] => /news/nuova-necropoli-compare-dagli-scavi-complesso-unipd-campagnola ) ) ) [field_url_en_page_label] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => Italian version [format] => [safe_value] => Italian version ) ) ) [path] => Array ( [pathauto] => 1 ) [name] => francesca.forzan [picture] => 0 [data] => b:0; [num_revisions] => 3 [current_revision_id] => 492365 [is_current] => 1 [is_pending] => [revision_moderation] => [entity_view_prepared] => 1 ) [#items] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [fid] => 140068 [uid] => 2032 [filename] => PD25CMP70_13052025 (23).jpg [uri] => public://PD25CMP70_13052025 (23)_0.jpg [filemime] => image/jpeg [filesize] => 37267 [status] => 1 [timestamp] => 1747984634 [type] => image [field_file_image_alt_text] => Array ( ) [field_file_image_title_text] => Array ( ) [field_folder] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [tid] => 2048 ) ) ) [metadata] => Array ( [height] => 227 [width] => 677 ) [height] => 227 [width] => 677 [alt] => excavation [title] => ) ) [#formatter] => image [0] => Array ( [#theme] => image_formatter [#item] => Array ( [fid] => 140068 [uid] => 2032 [filename] => PD25CMP70_13052025 (23).jpg [uri] => public://PD25CMP70_13052025 (23)_0.jpg [filemime] => image/jpeg [filesize] => 37267 [status] => 1 [timestamp] => 1747984634 [type] => image [field_file_image_alt_text] => Array ( ) [field_file_image_title_text] => Array ( ) [field_folder] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [tid] => 2048 ) ) ) [metadata] => Array ( [height] => 227 [width] => 677 ) [height] => 227 [width] => 677 [alt] => excavation [title] => ) [#image_style] => [#path] => ) ) [field_abstract_news] => Array ( [#theme] => field [#weight] => 0 [#title] => Abstract [#access] => 1 [#label_display] => above [#view_mode] => teaser [#language] => und [#field_name] => field_abstract_news [#field_type] => text_long [#field_translatable] => 0 [#entity_type] => node [#bundle] => box_lancio_news [#object] => stdClass Object ( [vid] => 492365 [uid] => 2032 [title] => A new necropolis emerges from excavations for the Campagnola Unipd complex [log] => [status] => 1 [comment] => 0 [promote] => 1 [sticky] => 0 [nid] => 118807 [type] => box_lancio_news [language] => it [created] => 1747984634 [changed] => 1747985182 [tnid] => 0 [translate] => 0 [revision_timestamp] => 1747985182 [revision_uid] => 2032 [body] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] =>An initial Roman-era necropolis consisting of 220 graves—burials dating from the Augustan age to the early 2nd century AD, during the height of Roman Padua—was discovered during excavations carried out between 2022 and 2023 as part of the construction of a new student residence for the University of Padua, located at the former SEEF site on Via Campagnola. The graves, arranged in closely grouped clusters, suggest familial ties, and the quality of the burial goods indicates that the deceased belonged to a middle social class.
In 2024, following the inauguration of the new classrooms, renovation work began—and is still ongoing—on the buildings along Via Campagnola. During these renovations, tombs predating the Roman ones were unearthed, dating back to the protohistoric period. While precise dating awaits further analysis of the materials, it is believed that these burials span from the 6th–5th century BC up to the early stages of Romanization. So far, about ten tombs have been found, including several dolium burials (large jars containing bones and grave goods), as well as wooden and stone coffin burials.
One of the most fascinating discoveries is a horse burial, which holds strong symbolic and ritual significance. In this grave, a horse was interred alongside a large dolium. This and other dolia have been extracted, taken to a lab for thorough analysis, and subsequently restored.
The richest grave, found in a large square wooden coffin, contains at least 36 items, including two ossuary jars, various ceramic artifacts, and some bronze and iron objects, indicating a high social status.
"This is an extraordinarily significant acquisition for archaeological research," explained Superintendent Vincenzo Tiné. "This new northern necropolis allows us to confirm that the boundaries of the ancient Venetic city essentially coincide with those of the Roman city, definitively clarifying the impressive urban scale of early Padua."
"The work initiated by the University of Padua to create new spaces for teaching and student life has brought to light an archaeological heritage of great value," stated Daniela Mapelli, Rector of the University of Padua. "This discovery enriches our understanding of Padua’s history and once again highlights the value of synergy between urban development, scientific research, and heritage preservation. Through these projects, the University contributes not only to education and innovation but also to the enhancement of the city's historical legacy."
[summary] => [format] => 2 [safe_value] =>An initial Roman-era necropolis consisting of 220 graves—burials dating from the Augustan age to the early 2nd century AD, during the height of Roman Padua—was discovered during excavations carried out between 2022 and 2023 as part of the construction of a new student residence for the University of Padua, located at the former SEEF site on Via Campagnola. The graves, arranged in closely grouped clusters, suggest familial ties, and the quality of the burial goods indicates that the deceased belonged to a middle social class.
In 2024, following the inauguration of the new classrooms, renovation work began—and is still ongoing—on the buildings along Via Campagnola. During these renovations, tombs predating the Roman ones were unearthed, dating back to the protohistoric period. While precise dating awaits further analysis of the materials, it is believed that these burials span from the 6th–5th century BC up to the early stages of Romanization. So far, about ten tombs have been found, including several dolium burials (large jars containing bones and grave goods), as well as wooden and stone coffin burials.
One of the most fascinating discoveries is a horse burial, which holds strong symbolic and ritual significance. In this grave, a horse was interred alongside a large dolium. This and other dolia have been extracted, taken to a lab for thorough analysis, and subsequently restored.
The richest grave, found in a large square wooden coffin, contains at least 36 items, including two ossuary jars, various ceramic artifacts, and some bronze and iron objects, indicating a high social status.
"This is an extraordinarily significant acquisition for archaeological research," explained Superintendent Vincenzo Tiné. "This new northern necropolis allows us to confirm that the boundaries of the ancient Venetic city essentially coincide with those of the Roman city, definitively clarifying the impressive urban scale of early Padua."
"The work initiated by the University of Padua to create new spaces for teaching and student life has brought to light an archaeological heritage of great value," stated Daniela Mapelli, Rector of the University of Padua. "This discovery enriches our understanding of Padua’s history and once again highlights the value of synergy between urban development, scientific research, and heritage preservation. Through these projects, the University contributes not only to education and innovation but also to the enhancement of the city's historical legacy."
[safe_summary] => ) ) ) [field_date_box_lancio_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => 2025-05-23T00:00:00 [timezone] => Europe/Paris [timezone_db] => Europe/Paris [date_type] => date ) ) ) [field_etichetta_box_lancio_news] => Array ( ) [field_img_box_lancio_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [fid] => 140068 [uid] => 2032 [filename] => PD25CMP70_13052025 (23).jpg [uri] => public://PD25CMP70_13052025 (23)_0.jpg [filemime] => image/jpeg [filesize] => 37267 [status] => 1 [timestamp] => 1747984634 [type] => image [field_file_image_alt_text] => Array ( ) [field_file_image_title_text] => Array ( ) [field_folder] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [tid] => 2048 ) ) ) [metadata] => Array ( [height] => 227 [width] => 677 ) [height] => 227 [width] => 677 [alt] => excavation [title] => ) ) ) [field_link_alla_news] => Array ( ) [field_link_esterno_news] => Array ( ) [field_pagina_associata] => Array ( ) [field_link_etichetta] => Array ( ) [field_abstract_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => New tombs, older than the Roman ones and dating back to the protohistoric age, have been discovered during the ongoing renovation work on the buildings along Via Campagnola [format] => [safe_value] => New tombs, older than the Roman ones and dating back to the protohistoric age, have been discovered during the ongoing renovation work on the buildings along Via Campagnola ) ) ) [field_allegato_news] => Array ( ) [field_categorie_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [tid] => 2296 ) ) ) [field_pub_date] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => 2025-05-23T00:00:00 [value2] => 2026-05-23T00:00:00 [timezone] => Europe/Paris [timezone_db] => Europe/Paris [date_type] => date ) ) ) [field_layout_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => single ) ) ) [field_testo_opzionale_news] => Array ( ) [field_url_en_page] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => /news/nuova-necropoli-compare-dagli-scavi-complesso-unipd-campagnola [format] => [safe_value] => /news/nuova-necropoli-compare-dagli-scavi-complesso-unipd-campagnola ) ) ) [field_url_en_page_label] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => Italian version [format] => [safe_value] => Italian version ) ) ) [path] => Array ( [pathauto] => 1 ) [name] => francesca.forzan [picture] => 0 [data] => b:0; [num_revisions] => 3 [current_revision_id] => 492365 [is_current] => 1 [is_pending] => [revision_moderation] => [entity_view_prepared] => 1 ) [#items] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => New tombs, older than the Roman ones and dating back to the protohistoric age, have been discovered during the ongoing renovation work on the buildings along Via Campagnola [format] => [safe_value] => New tombs, older than the Roman ones and dating back to the protohistoric age, have been discovered during the ongoing renovation work on the buildings along Via Campagnola ) ) [#formatter] => text_default [0] => Array ( [#markup] => New tombs, older than the Roman ones and dating back to the protohistoric age, have been discovered during the ongoing renovation work on the buildings along Via Campagnola ) ) [links] => Array ( [#theme] => links__node [#pre_render] => Array ( [0] => drupal_pre_render_links ) [#attributes] => Array ( [class] => Array ( [0] => links [1] => inline ) ) [node] => Array ( [#theme] => links__node__node [#links] => Array ( [node-readmore] => Array ( [title] => Read more about A new necropolis emerges from excavations for the Campagnola Unipd complex [href] => node/118807 [html] => 1 [attributes] => Array ( [rel] => tag [title] => A new necropolis emerges from excavations for the Campagnola Unipd complex ) ) ) [#attributes] => Array ( [class] => Array ( [0] => links [1] => inline ) ) ) ) [field_date_box_lancio_news] => Array ( [#theme] => field [#weight] => 1 [#title] => Data [#access] => 1 [#label_display] => above [#view_mode] => teaser [#language] => und [#field_name] => field_date_box_lancio_news [#field_type] => date [#field_translatable] => 0 [#entity_type] => node [#bundle] => box_lancio_news [#object] => stdClass Object ( [vid] => 492365 [uid] => 2032 [title] => A new necropolis emerges from excavations for the Campagnola Unipd complex [log] => [status] => 1 [comment] => 0 [promote] => 1 [sticky] => 0 [nid] => 118807 [type] => box_lancio_news [language] => it [created] => 1747984634 [changed] => 1747985182 [tnid] => 0 [translate] => 0 [revision_timestamp] => 1747985182 [revision_uid] => 2032 [body] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] =>An initial Roman-era necropolis consisting of 220 graves—burials dating from the Augustan age to the early 2nd century AD, during the height of Roman Padua—was discovered during excavations carried out between 2022 and 2023 as part of the construction of a new student residence for the University of Padua, located at the former SEEF site on Via Campagnola. The graves, arranged in closely grouped clusters, suggest familial ties, and the quality of the burial goods indicates that the deceased belonged to a middle social class.
In 2024, following the inauguration of the new classrooms, renovation work began—and is still ongoing—on the buildings along Via Campagnola. During these renovations, tombs predating the Roman ones were unearthed, dating back to the protohistoric period. While precise dating awaits further analysis of the materials, it is believed that these burials span from the 6th–5th century BC up to the early stages of Romanization. So far, about ten tombs have been found, including several dolium burials (large jars containing bones and grave goods), as well as wooden and stone coffin burials.
One of the most fascinating discoveries is a horse burial, which holds strong symbolic and ritual significance. In this grave, a horse was interred alongside a large dolium. This and other dolia have been extracted, taken to a lab for thorough analysis, and subsequently restored.
The richest grave, found in a large square wooden coffin, contains at least 36 items, including two ossuary jars, various ceramic artifacts, and some bronze and iron objects, indicating a high social status.
"This is an extraordinarily significant acquisition for archaeological research," explained Superintendent Vincenzo Tiné. "This new northern necropolis allows us to confirm that the boundaries of the ancient Venetic city essentially coincide with those of the Roman city, definitively clarifying the impressive urban scale of early Padua."
"The work initiated by the University of Padua to create new spaces for teaching and student life has brought to light an archaeological heritage of great value," stated Daniela Mapelli, Rector of the University of Padua. "This discovery enriches our understanding of Padua’s history and once again highlights the value of synergy between urban development, scientific research, and heritage preservation. Through these projects, the University contributes not only to education and innovation but also to the enhancement of the city's historical legacy."
[summary] => [format] => 2 [safe_value] =>An initial Roman-era necropolis consisting of 220 graves—burials dating from the Augustan age to the early 2nd century AD, during the height of Roman Padua—was discovered during excavations carried out between 2022 and 2023 as part of the construction of a new student residence for the University of Padua, located at the former SEEF site on Via Campagnola. The graves, arranged in closely grouped clusters, suggest familial ties, and the quality of the burial goods indicates that the deceased belonged to a middle social class.
In 2024, following the inauguration of the new classrooms, renovation work began—and is still ongoing—on the buildings along Via Campagnola. During these renovations, tombs predating the Roman ones were unearthed, dating back to the protohistoric period. While precise dating awaits further analysis of the materials, it is believed that these burials span from the 6th–5th century BC up to the early stages of Romanization. So far, about ten tombs have been found, including several dolium burials (large jars containing bones and grave goods), as well as wooden and stone coffin burials.
One of the most fascinating discoveries is a horse burial, which holds strong symbolic and ritual significance. In this grave, a horse was interred alongside a large dolium. This and other dolia have been extracted, taken to a lab for thorough analysis, and subsequently restored.
The richest grave, found in a large square wooden coffin, contains at least 36 items, including two ossuary jars, various ceramic artifacts, and some bronze and iron objects, indicating a high social status.
"This is an extraordinarily significant acquisition for archaeological research," explained Superintendent Vincenzo Tiné. "This new northern necropolis allows us to confirm that the boundaries of the ancient Venetic city essentially coincide with those of the Roman city, definitively clarifying the impressive urban scale of early Padua."
"The work initiated by the University of Padua to create new spaces for teaching and student life has brought to light an archaeological heritage of great value," stated Daniela Mapelli, Rector of the University of Padua. "This discovery enriches our understanding of Padua’s history and once again highlights the value of synergy between urban development, scientific research, and heritage preservation. Through these projects, the University contributes not only to education and innovation but also to the enhancement of the city's historical legacy."
[safe_summary] => ) ) ) [field_date_box_lancio_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => 2025-05-23T00:00:00 [timezone] => Europe/Paris [timezone_db] => Europe/Paris [date_type] => date ) ) ) [field_etichetta_box_lancio_news] => Array ( ) [field_img_box_lancio_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [fid] => 140068 [uid] => 2032 [filename] => PD25CMP70_13052025 (23).jpg [uri] => public://PD25CMP70_13052025 (23)_0.jpg [filemime] => image/jpeg [filesize] => 37267 [status] => 1 [timestamp] => 1747984634 [type] => image [field_file_image_alt_text] => Array ( ) [field_file_image_title_text] => Array ( ) [field_folder] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [tid] => 2048 ) ) ) [metadata] => Array ( [height] => 227 [width] => 677 ) [height] => 227 [width] => 677 [alt] => excavation [title] => ) ) ) [field_link_alla_news] => Array ( ) [field_link_esterno_news] => Array ( ) [field_pagina_associata] => Array ( ) [field_link_etichetta] => Array ( ) [field_abstract_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => New tombs, older than the Roman ones and dating back to the protohistoric age, have been discovered during the ongoing renovation work on the buildings along Via Campagnola [format] => [safe_value] => New tombs, older than the Roman ones and dating back to the protohistoric age, have been discovered during the ongoing renovation work on the buildings along Via Campagnola ) ) ) [field_allegato_news] => Array ( ) [field_categorie_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [tid] => 2296 ) ) ) [field_pub_date] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => 2025-05-23T00:00:00 [value2] => 2026-05-23T00:00:00 [timezone] => Europe/Paris [timezone_db] => Europe/Paris [date_type] => date ) ) ) [field_layout_news] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => single ) ) ) [field_testo_opzionale_news] => Array ( ) [field_url_en_page] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => /news/nuova-necropoli-compare-dagli-scavi-complesso-unipd-campagnola [format] => [safe_value] => /news/nuova-necropoli-compare-dagli-scavi-complesso-unipd-campagnola ) ) ) [field_url_en_page_label] => Array ( [und] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => Italian version [format] => [safe_value] => Italian version ) ) ) [path] => Array ( [pathauto] => 1 ) [name] => francesca.forzan [picture] => 0 [data] => b:0; [num_revisions] => 3 [current_revision_id] => 492365 [is_current] => 1 [is_pending] => [revision_moderation] => [entity_view_prepared] => 1 ) [#items] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [value] => 2025-05-23T00:00:00 [timezone] => Europe/Paris [timezone_db] => Europe/Paris [date_type] => date ) ) [#formatter] => date_default [0] => Array ( [#markup] => Ven, 23/05/2025 ) ) )
