2,000-Year-Old Roman Tombstone Discovered in New Orleans Backyard

Backyard Discovery of Ancient Roman Tombstone

• 💡 While clearing overgrown vines in her New Orleans backyard, Dr. Daniella Santoro discovered a marble stone.
• 📌 Initially thought to be a "cool stone," its authenticity was later confirmed by experts.

Expert Identification and Provenance

• 🔍 Dr. Santoro, an expert in cultural anthropology, collaborated with UNO archaeologist Dr. Ryan Gray and classical studies expert Dr. Suzanne Lusnia.
• 🏛️ Research revealed the tombstone was a marker for a Roman Imperial Navy officer from the 2nd century.
• 🗺️ The stone had been missing from a museum in Italy since it was bombed in 1943 during World War II.
• 📍 Its origin was traced to the Roman city of Centum Cellae, now known as Civitavecchia.

Repatriation and Ongoing Mystery

• ✅ Dr. Santoro contacted the Italian museum, confirming the inscription belonged to them and initiating the return process.
• 🤝 The tombstone was handed over to the FBI Art Crimes Unit for official repatriation to Italy.
• ❓ The exact manner in which the 2,000-year-old artifact traveled from ancient Rome to a New Orleans garden remains a mystery, with theories including a veteran's souvenir or black market sale.
• ✈️ Plans are underway for a ceremony at the museum in Italy upon its return.