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A wine cellar around 1,800 years old has been found near San Gimignano in Tuscany. During excavation work in the Roman Villa Aiano, which dates back to between the fourth and seventh centuries AD, a large hall measuring 30 by nine metres was discovered. It was supported by six pillars. Thirty large buried vessels for storing wine were found inside and partially analysed. Chemical analyses of samples from inside the containers showed that they were coated with pine resin and pitch. These substances were used for wine production in ancient times. Based on their arrangement and the size of the room, the archaeologists assume that there were originally 50 of these vessels.
In the past two years, two rectangular storage containers and traces of a press were also found. The dimensions of the facility indicate that large quantities of wine were produced and stored in the rooms, which were not just for local consumption, explained the researchers. They have thus gained new insights into wine production and the wine trade during Roman times.
(al / Source: Gambero Rosso)