Rare Gold Coins and Ancient River Port Discovered in Aquileia, Italy

Archaeologists operating in Italy have made a remarkable discovery on the southeastern outskirts of the ancient city of Aquileia. Excavations have brought to light both extremely rare gold coins and the definitive traces of what was once a highly active river port. These findings offer a fresh perspective on the city's commercial importance and its integral relationship with the vast Roman Empire. Specifically, the new evidence illuminates Aquileia’s significant economic power during the Late Roman period and demonstrates the depth of its integration within the imperial system.

Of particular interest are three gold coins bearing the effigies and names of Emperors Valens, Magnus Maximus, and Arcadius. Each coin represents a distinct denomination and is considered an exceptionally rare specimen. Experts hypothesize that these coins were not intended for common daily circulation but rather served as imperial gifts distributed among members of the court nobility. It is likely that the coins were concealed during a time of imminent danger and subsequently never retrieved, underscoring Aquileia's strategic significance during the Late Roman era.

Beneath the area identified as the market square, researchers uncovered structural materials dating back to the late first century CE. This included 19 amphorae, which complement the 23 vessels recovered during the previous excavation season. These large storage containers were intentionally embedded into the ground to establish a system of drainage and reinforcement beneath a long, narrow structure supported by stone columns. This specific layout strongly suggests the presence of dedicated storage facilities directly connected to the river dock.

The researchers posit that the southern sector of the city was situated along a river far wider than the modern waterway, enabling it to accommodate substantial cargo arriving by water. This archaeological confirmation solidifies Aquileia’s historical role as a crucial commercial hub and a vital gateway for trade within the Roman Empire, facilitating the movement of goods across the region.

Further investigation revealed a paved street running between two substantial market buildings. The distinct wheel tracks visible on the stone surface confirm that carts regularly traversed this route, transporting goods. The overall market complex consisted of six large structures designed for the storage and sale of various foodstuffs, including grain, meat, vegetables, and fruit. Within the collapse zone of the western portico, archaeologists recovered a significant quantity of charred grains, providing valuable new data regarding food production and consumption patterns in the ancient metropolis.

The excavations also demonstrated that the area remained in use even after the market complex was destroyed. Evidence includes the remnants of small dwellings complete with hearths and workshops, alongside a later road constructed directly over the older paved street. Furthermore, several burials lacking cult objects were discovered; these remains are currently undergoing radiocarbon analysis. These findings confirm that the territory maintained its function as a living space long after the commercial infrastructure ceased operation.

The Aquileia Foundation, which supports the ongoing excavation efforts, has characterized the discoveries as “valuable findings” that will facilitate the expansion of tourist itineraries throughout the ancient city. Project leaders have noted that the newly identified paved street could be incorporated into a pedestrian route. This route would effectively showcase the market and its direct connection to the river port, allowing visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s sophisticated trade infrastructure and its extensive economic ties to the wider empire.