Archeologists discover 2000-year-old food remains in Colosseum

Archeologists have discovered a selection of foods dating back to the Roman period in the Colosseum in Rome.

According to the Heritage Daily, the food remains were found in the drainage system of the famous amphitheater.

A study has been taking place since January 2021 to clear around 70 meters of ancient drains and sewers beneath the giant structure.

The researchers were using wire-guided robots to explore the arena’s complex drainage system, revealing a variety of 1900-year-old ancient snacks consumed by spectators during public spectacles such as battle re-enactments, gladiator contests and executions.

The team found food fragments including figs, grapes, cherries, blackberries and walnuts, as well as the bones of bears and big cats, probably the remains of animals used in hunts or forced to fight each other for entertainment.

The team of archaeologists also uncovered 50 bronze coins dating back to roughly 250-450 during the late Roman period, in addition to a silver coin from 170-171 from the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.