Archaeologists have uncovered a 2,600-year-old cemetery filled with ancient tombs and rare treasures during the expansion of a pasta factory in the Italian city of Gragnano, 24NewsHD TV reported on Monday.
The discovery was made during construction work between 2025 and 2026.
Local authorities announced the remarkable find in July.
Archaeologists believed the cemetery dated back to the Archaic period, several centuries before the rise of the Roman Empire.
Excavations have revealed human remains, stone vessels and other artefacts inside chambers made of stone.
Several tombs also contained remarkably well-preserved textiles, wooden objects and baskets.
Experts said the discovery could provide valuable insight into the burial customs, social structures and daily lives of people who lived in the area more than two and a half millennia ago.
Among the rare objects found at the site were Egyptian scarabs, precious animal-shaped stones, and silver and bronze artefacts.
Archaeologists said many of the items have survived in exceptionally good condition.
The pasta company operating the factory said the discovery was highly significant.
Company Chief Executive Massimo Menna said the discovery had created both a sense of pride and responsibility.
Researchers are now continuing to study the human remains in an effort to learn more about the ancient population's diet, physical activities, and overall living conditions.