Italy's 'Lost City of Vitruvius': Archaeologists Unveil Ancient Basilica
Archaeologists in Italy have made a groundbreaking discovery, unearthing the remains of a 2,000-year-old basilica designed by the renowned ancient Roman architect Vitruvius. This find is being hailed as a significant archaeological treasure, shedding light on the pioneering work of Vitruvius, a founding figure in Western architecture.
The Culture Minister, Alessandro Giuli, drew an intriguing parallel between the discovery and the legendary Tutankhamun's tomb, emphasizing its enduring impact. "This is something our grandchildren will be talking about," he said, underscoring the historical and cultural significance of the find.
The basilica was unearthed during excavations for the redevelopment of Piazza Andrea Costa in Fano, Le Marche. Researchers identified it as Vitruvius' design by finding columns that matched his detailed descriptions in his seminal work, 'De Architectura' (The Ten Books on Architecture). This treatise is the only complete ancient text on architectural theory, influencing artists for centuries, including the iconic Leonardo da Vinci.
A Missing Piece in the Vitruvian Legacy
The newly discovered basilica is the only building definitively attributed to Marcus Vitruvius Pollonius, a pioneer in architectural design. Vitruvius' work, 'De Architectura', is a cornerstone of architectural theory, with its instructions on classical proportions influencing artists like Leonardo da Vinci's famous Vitruvian Man.
Vitruvius, who lived in Fanum Fortunae (now Fano) in the first century BC, specifically described the basilica as a majestic public building for justice and business. However, its location was lost over time, becoming a mystery that scholars and archaeologists have sought to unravel for centuries.
"We've been waiting for this discovery for over 2,000 years," said Fano Mayor Luca Serfilippi, emphasizing the historical significance. Fano's Culture Minister, Giuli, added, "This discovery will forever change the landscape of archaeology and research in our country."
A Shining Spotlight on Fano
The discovery is expected to bring international attention to Fano, a less-known region in Italy. Giuli described it as an exceptional find, "something exceptional in the history of archaeology, architecture, and the city's morphology."
The city's Vitruvian Study Centre, established over 30 years ago, has been instrumental in promoting Vitruvius' legacy. The President of Le Marche region, Francesco Acquaroli, recognized the value of this heritage, stating, "This discovery will boost tourism and cultural appreciation."
Further investigations will continue at the construction site to uncover more of the basilica and determine public access. This discovery promises to shed new light on ancient Roman architecture and the enduring legacy of Vitruvius.
