Ancient Sanctuary Discovered During Highway Construction in Italy

Construction crews working on a highway in Italy have uncovered the unexpected remains of an ancient sanctuary, leading to an archaeological investigation. The discovery was made public by the Italian Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape on May 19.

The sanctuary was found in Ponso, a town approximately 45 miles southwest of Venice. Workers from Veneto Strade S.p.A. were building a road from Borgo Veneto to Carceri when they discovered the site, which dates back to the fifth century B.C.

During clearance operations for wartime ordnance, the first artifacts were found. These remains include large rectangular foundation structures believed to be temples. One structure appears to have been surrounded by a row of columns.

The site contains inscriptions in Latin and Venetic script, an ancient language of the Veneti people in northeastern Italy prior to Roman domination. Many stones with inscriptions are thought to have been repurposed in a paved flooring structure, the purpose of which is still unknown. Evidence suggests that the paving was constructed during the 1st century A.D.

Photos from the excavation reveal ancient Venetic inscriptions, partially buried column pieces, and stone blocks, which are believed to be part of the temple complex.

The site is suspected to have a religious significance, with some inscriptions having a “votive character.” This suggests they were used for religious purposes. Flooding of the area by a branch of the Adige River is believed to have occurred in antiquity.

The site shows signs of continuity in use and transformation over time, rather than being abandoned. It appears to have retained an essential role during Roman times, albeit with differing cultural expressions compared to earlier phases.

The sanctuary complex near Venice may offer new insights into religious practices in ancient northeastern Italy. Researchers continue to actively investigate the area.

The discovery is part of a series of recent archaeological finds in Italy. Last year, archaeologists in Trento found a massive Iron Age necropolis, with burials dating back nearly 3,000 years. Earlier in 2026, an ancient Roman city was uncovered near the historic Appian Way.