Loano, remains of a possible Roman villa from the imperial era discovered

From the subsoil of the historic center of Loano (Savona) are re-emerging increasingly substantial traces of a Roman past that, until now, was known mainly through individual finds. In fact, resurfacing work on the so-called “caruggetti orbi,” narrow alleys located in the area between Ricciardi Street and Siccardi Street, is returning a significant archaeological picture that opens new perspectives on the city’s ancient history. In an area already known for the discovery of the Roman mosaic now preserved in Palazzo Doria, elements have in fact surfaced that, in all probability, refer to a Roman villa of the imperial era that belonged to a high-ranking personage.

Over the past few days, excavation and archaeological monitoring activities have brought to light not only additional mosaic fragments compatible with those already known, but also wall structures of considerable size. In particular, one of the identified perimeter walls is in a good state of preservation and still retains obvious traces of red-colored plaster adhered to the structure. This detail contributes to strengthening the hypothesis of a valuable residential complex, inserted in a much more articulated and structured urban context than what has been documented so far for Roman Loano.

The discovery immediately attracted the attention of the municipal administration and conservation bodies. Mayor Luca Lettieri stressed the historical significance of the discovery, pointing out that it goes beyond initial expectations related to urban regeneration works. “Loano,” commented the first citizen, “is known as the City of the Dorias, but today we can proudly say that Loano was also, and even before that, a real Roman city. These vestiges tell a very ancient story that enriches the identity of our community and reinforces the cultural value of our historic center.”

Along with his enthusiasm for the discovery, the mayor also called attention to the complexity of managing the construction site. In fact, the ongoing intervention requires a delicate balance between the protection of the archaeological heritage, the needs of urban regeneration, and the respect of the timing of the works.

Confirming the exceptional nature of the find is Dr. Marta Conventi, an archaeological officer at the Superintendency, who called the discovery extraordinary for the Ligurian context. “This is an extraordinary find for Liguria,” she confirms. “The quality of the masonry, the presence of the plaster and the mosaic fragments indicate a high-level residential building, probably an urban or suburban villa inserted in a significant Roman settlement fabric. We are proceeding with timely and rapid documentation, using advanced technological cataloging systems, which allow each element to be recorded and studied without slowing down the site excessively. The structures are then being protected with nonwoven fabric, a solution that ensures conservation and allows the work to continue.”

The Municipality of Loano wanted to publicly thank all the figures involved in this complex teamwork, from the workers engaged daily on the site to the archaeologists, from the professionals in charge to the municipal officials and the scientific direction of the Superintendency. In particular, the mayor expressed recognition to Dr. Conventi and the archaeologists of Regio IX Liguria, who are accompanying the administration on this journey, explaining step by step the value of what resurfaces from underground and the importance of its protection.

The new findings are part of a larger picture that, over the years, has already returned significant evidence of the Roman presence in the Loano area. Elements that help confirm the city’s strategic role along the Ligurian coast in ancient times and delineate a more complex settlement than hitherto known. The discovery thus not only enriches the local historical heritage, but also opens up new perspectives for study, enhancement and cultural promotion, with potential spin-offs in terms of tourism as well.

On the sidelines of the ongoing investigations, Dr. Conventi expressed her willingness to participate in a public meeting that the city administration is considering organizing at Palazzo Doria. The appointment would be dedicated to the new archaeological discoveries and Roman Loano and would be an important opportunity to share with citizens and the scientific community the value of the findings, placing them in a broader historical and territorial framework. A moment of confrontation and dissemination that could help strengthen collective awareness of the importance of a heritage that continues to emerge from underground and to tell, even today, the most ancient origins of the city.

Loano, remains of a possible Roman villa from the imperial era discovered

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