Clay figurine estimated to be 3,000 years old found in Italy, said to show maker's handprints

Archaeologists have made a major discovery in Lake Bolsena, central Italy – a 3,000-year-old clay figurine believed to represent an ancient goddess. The artifact was found submerged in a volcanic lake that contains the remains of an early Iron Age village dating back to around the 10th or 9th century BC. The figurine, which measures about 6 inches (15 centimeters) long, offers a rare glimpse into the early practices and daily life of this ancient civilization. The discovery includes the maker’s handprints and impressions of a fabric pattern, suggesting the figurine was once dressed in clothing.

Archaeological context

The figurine was discovered by a team of Italian government archaeologists and police divers at the Gran Carro excavation site on the eastern shore of Lake Bolsena, according to a post on Facebook. mail Directorate of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape. The site, which sank into the lake due to seismic activity, has been the subject of archaeological research since the 1960s. Finds from the site have previously included wooden objects, pottery and jewellery, providing valuable information about the organisation and culture of early Iron Age societies.

The significance of the find

The crude workmanship of the clay figurine and the imprints of the cloth indicate that it was likely used in domestic rituals. Similar artefacts found in Iron Age graves suggest that such practices were widespread. This discovery is notable because it preserves both the artist’s handprints and the imprint of the garment, providing a unique insight into ritual practices of the time.

Wider implications

Geologists have determined that Lake Bolsena was formed between 600,000 and 200,000 years ago. many years ago during volcanic eruptions. The sunken village, possibly built by the Villanovan culture – a precursor to the Etruscan civilisation – has yielded a wealth of artefacts that reveal much about life in the early Iron Age. The Gran Carro site is now part of Italy’s National Recovery and Sustainability Plan, which aims to make the site more accessible to visitors and further research.

Ongoing research

In addition to the figurine, the Aiola structure at the site – a large pile of submerged rocks – is thought to have been built around a geothermal spring. This find, along with others from the region, helps piece together the historical significance of Lake Bolsena and its surroundings through different periods, including the Roman era.