Ancient Head of Roman Deity Unearthed at Church in Italy

An ancient stone head has been discovered at a 5th-century Christian church in Rome, Italy, with experts suggesting its craftsmanship, size, and distinct facial expression may indicate it once depicted a Roman deity, mythological figure, or philosopher.

The discovery occurred during excavation work at the Basilica of Santo Stefano, located in the Tombe di Via Latina archaeological area. The Tombe di Via Latina, known for its well-preserved Roman tombs and early Christian monuments, continues to offer glimpses into Rome’s layered past.

Archaeologists found the sculpture buried in the church’s foundations, where it had likely been repurposed during medieval reconstruction. Reusing ancient sculptures as construction material was a common practice at the time.

Restoration work underway in Matera, where further cleaning may uncover hidden details

The artifact has been transferred to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hub for cultural preservation. Italy’s Central Institute for Restoration will oversee the restoration process.

The effort also involves students from the School of Advanced Training in Restoration, who are participating in visual documentation, material studies, and technical analysis.

Much of the face remains covered in thick layers of mortar, complicating identification. However, a carefully sculpted beard and solemn features are visible. Researchers believe that further cleaning may uncover hidden details, such as inscriptions or symbolic markings, that could confirm the figure’s identity.

Link to Rome’s shifting cultural landscape

Researchers hope the restoration will also shed light on the broader historical context of the artifact. Was the head part of a monumental statue? Did it serve a religious purpose before being buried in the basilica walls?

The team is particularly interested in how the sculpture fits into the cultural dynamics of Late Antique Rome, a period spanning the 4th to 6th centuries AD. This era marked the transformation of Roman society as pagan traditions gave way to Christianity.

Reusing older pagan art in Christian settings was widespread during this time, but each case holds distinct cultural clues.

Clues to the past await beneath the mortar

Though the figure’s identity remains uncertain, the artifact is already considered a valuable link to Rome’s past. As restoration specialists begin their careful work, the sculpture may yet reveal more about its origin and significance.

With every layer removed, researchers inch closer to understanding whether this solemn face once inspired reverence, wisdom, or power in a very different Rome.