For the first time, archaeologists have completed a complete map of the underground tunnel network of the ancient Etruscan city of Veio, located just 12-15 km from Rome. The research was supported by the Italian Ministry of Culture, the Etruscan National Museum of Villa Giulia and Sapienza University of Rome. To explore narrow and complex underground passages, an autonomous Magellano robot was used, equipped with a special suspension system originally developed by NASA for the exploration of Mars. The rover transmits images and data in real time, allowing scientists to monitor work in places that are dangerous or inaccessible to humans.
Technology has made it possible to recreate Veio's entire underground landscape for the first time, including hydraulic channels, cisterns, wells, hidden galleries and ceremonial pools. Each location was digitally mapped, creating a detailed model of the underground city.
Complex hydraulics and ritual spaces
The Portonaccio Sanctuary and the adjacent sacred lake have attracted the special attention of researchers. New data shows that water flowed between different parts of the complex, providing not only domestic needs but also ritual needs. Canals connect the terraces, the reserve and the Cannetaccio valley, creating a controlled hydraulic network. As archaeologist Luana Toniolo notes, these findings represent “a whole new set of data” about Veio's underground infrastructure. Italian Museum general director Massimo Osanna added that the project shows how modern technology can recreate ancient cities where traditional excavations are limited.
The monumental ceremonial pool, located next to the Temple of Apollo, was used for purification rites and later reused by the Romans. The entire hydraulic system, including the underground passages, provided services to the complex and made it possible to organize special processions and ceremonies, which confirmed the close connection between architecture, religious practice and urban planning.
Veio is a formidable opponent of Rome
Veio was the leading city of the Etruscan League and controlled the flow of the Tiber, the region's rich agricultural land and mineral resources. His influence extended throughout Central Italy. The city is famous for its bronze and terracotta sculptures, including the famous Apollo Veio, and its sanctuaries, such as Portonaccio, became centers of spiritual power. Veio's military might forced Rome into a siege that lasted many years and ended with the fall of the city in 396 BC. D. under the onslaught of Marcus Furius Camilla.
Modern maps of the underground show why the city was so resilient: the technical system provided defense, mobility and support for ceremonial life. New evidence confirms that the tunnels and lakes were the result of carefully planned design rather than random excavations.
Technology is changing archaeology
The use of autonomous robotics and geophysical methods made it possible for the first time to create a complete digital model of all the underground ceremonial and hydraulic architecture. Researchers gained access to information not available through traditional excavations and were able to understand how water, architecture and religious rituals interacted. The system displays detailed images of narrow canals, ceremonial pools and wells, explaining the role of each element in the city's ritual and daily life.
The Etruscans remain one of the most mysterious civilizations of antiquity. Their language has not yet been fully deciphered, their origins are still debated, and their religious practices contain many layers of symbolism. These findings help researchers understand how the Etruscans shaped early urban patterns and influenced Rome and subsequent Mediterranean history.
