Roman Villa in San Benedetto del Tronto Reveals Wine and Garum Production

The second archaeological campaign at the Villa Marittima in San Benedetto del Tronto, Ascoli Piceno province, has concluded, uncovering rooms with finely frescoed walls in a secluded wing of the residential area. The villa, believed to have belonged to a wealthy 1st-century BC entrepreneur, was first suspected a decade ago during municipal construction for a new school. Excavations revealed vats lined with cocciopesto, a waterproofing mortar used for processing water-soluble substances. A double grape press, numerous terracotta amphorae (some decorated), and various storage jars confirmed the structures were used for winemaking, supporting earlier studies that Truentine wine was prized in Eastern markets from Delos to Alexandria. The same trade routes were also used for fish products. The 2020 excavations also uncovered facilities for producing garum, a fermented fish sauce made from shrimp and deep-sea fish, a costly delicacy in antiquity. Mosaics at the villa's entrance depict marine species, alluding to the sea's richness and the owner's wealth, further evidenced by mosaic floors with geometric and allegorical designs. Recent finds include a portion of the hydraulic and sewer system and a cubiculum with small beds for servants. By year's end, the entire complex will open to the public with guided tours supported by an iconographic path and specialized staff.