Archaeologists spent a year making all kinds of finds in the drainage system of the Colosseum in Rome. They announced it on Thursday. Among other things, they found traces of food that provide insight into the nightlife habits of the Romans, from 2,000 to 1,500 years ago.
Archaeologists have found several traces of snacks that the Romans ate during games in the amphitheater. For example, they found seeds from figs, grapes and melons. They also found traces of nuts and olives.
Additionally, the researchers found fragments of bear bones and the remains of big cats. The animals likely had to fight or were used as prey in hunting games in the ancient Roman arena, archaeologists said.
They also found more than fifty bronze coins from the late Roman period. In addition, a silver coin from around 170 AD has emerged. Researchers think it is a commemorative coin honoring Emperor Marcus Aurelius.
Archaeologists began studying the drainage system beneath the Colosseum in January. They searched and cleaned about 70 meters of drains and sewers.
According to Alfonsina Russo, director of the Colosseum Archaeological Park, the discoveries have led to new knowledge for visitors to the amphitheater in antiquity.
