For the first time, archaeologists have completed a complete mapping of the network of underground tunnels of the ancient Etruscan city of Veio, located just 12-15 kilometers from Rome. The study was supported byItalian Ministry of Culturethe National Etruscan Museum of Villa Giulia and the Sapienza University of Rome. To explore narrow and complex underground passages, an autonomous Magellano robot was used, equipped with a special suspension originally developed by NASA for the exploration of Mars. The rover transmitted images and data in real time, allowing scientists to monitor work in places that were dangerous or inaccessible to humans.

Technology has made it possible for the first time to reconstruct the entire underground landscape of Veio, including hydraulic channels, cisterns, wells, hidden galleries and ritual pools. Each site was digitally mapped, creating a detailed model of the underground city.

Complex hydraulics and ritual spaces

The sanctuary of Portonaccio and the adjacent sacred pool attracted particular attention from researchers. New data showed that water flowed between different parts of the complex, providing not only domestic but also ritual needs. The canals connected the terraces, the sanctuary and the Cannetaccio valley, creating a controlled hydraulic network. As archaeologist Luana Toniolo notes, the findings represent “a completely new set of data” about Veio’s underground infrastructure. Museums of Italy director general Massimo Osanna adds that the project demonstrates how modern technology can reimagine ancient cities where traditional excavations are limited.

The monumental ritual pool, located next to the Temple of Apollo, was used for purification rites and was later reused by the Romans. The entire hydraulic system, including underground passages, provided service to the complex and possibly the holding of processions and special ceremonies, which confirms the close connection between architecture, religious practice and urban planning.

Veio as a formidable rival to Rome

Veio was the leading city of the Etruscan League and controlled the course of the Tiber, the rich farmland and mineral resources of the region. His influence extended throughout Central Italy. The city was famous for its bronze and terracotta sculptures, including the famous Apollo Veio, and its sanctuaries, such as Portonaccio, became centers of spiritual power. The military power of Veio forced Rome into a multi-year siege that ended with the fall of the city in 396 BC. e. under the onslaught of Marcus Furius Camilla.

Modern mapping of the underground shows why the city was so resilient: engineering systems provided defense, mobility and support for ritual life. New evidence confirms that the tunnels and pools were the result of carefully planned designs rather than random excavations.

Technology is changing archeology

The use of autonomous robotics and geophysical methods made it possible for the first time to create a complete digital model of all underground hydraulics and ritual architecture.Researchers gained access to information not available through traditional excavations and were able to understand how water, architecture and religious rituals interacted with each other.The system showed detailed images of narrow canals, ritual pools and wells, explaining the role of each element in the daily and ceremonial life of the city.

The Etruscans remain one of the most mysterious civilizations of antiquity. Their language has not been fully deciphered, their origins are still debated, and their religious practices contain many symbolic layers. These findings help researchers understand how the Etruscans shaped early patterns of urbanism and influenced Rome and subsequent Mediterranean history.