Archaeologists in the town of San Giorgio Bigarello, near Mantua, have unearthed a vast necropolis dating back approximately 5,000 years to the Copper Age. This finding has stunned researchers both for the sheer number of tombs uncovered—22 in total—and the wealth of archaeological treasures within them.

Overhead view of a burial dating to the Copper Age at San Giorgio Bigarello. Credit: The Municipality of San Giorgio Bigarello

The first indications of this remarkable find emerged during an archaeological survey in November, with subsequent excavations in January and February 2024 revealing the extent of the necropolis. These initial isolated burials found about 16 inches beneath the surface, were just a fraction of what was to come, as further exploration unveiled a much larger burial ground. Despite the passage of millennia, the graves remained remarkably intact, thanks to the fortunate preservation conditions of the sandy soil.

Among the most striking discoveries were the exquisitely crafted weapons found in some of the tombs, including finely made daggers, flawless arrowheads, and other blades, indicative of the advanced technical skills of the ancient craftsmen. Additionally, jewelry items such as necklace beads were unearthed, raising intriguing questions about their chronology and the materials from which they were made, likely dating back to the 4th millennium BCE.

The majority of the burials followed a consistent pattern, with the deceased laid to rest on their left sides, legs bent towards their chests, and heads facing northwest. This burial practice echoes similar customs observed in Neolithic cultures in northern Italy.

A Copper Age burial in a crouched position with a dagger placed on the upper arm. Credit: The Municipality of San Giorgio Bigarello

Further excavations in January revealed an additional 19 graves, confirming the suspicions of archaeologists that this site was indeed a cemetery, rather than a collection of random burials. These newly discovered burials reinforced the significance of the necropolis, with each grave offering potential avenues for research into aspects such as age, paleopathology, diet, and even the origins of the individuals interred.

Mayor Beniamino Morselli expressed enthusiasm for commemorating the site within the town’s public garden, allowing visitors to connect with the ancient stories of those who once lived in this landscape of water and sands.

Detail of a skeleton holding a flint blade in its fingers and an arrowhead on the elbow. Credit: The Municipality of San Giorgio Bigarello

Archaeologist Simone Sestito, who led the research efforts, emphasized the importance of ongoing study and conservation efforts to ensure that these artifacts are preserved and made accessible for future generations.

Discussions have already begun about the possibility of establishing a dedicated museum to showcase these findings, further enhancing their accessibility and educational value.