SCAVEDITION ISSUE 2

Pantelleria's Hidden Silver Hoard

Pirate raids, Roman coins, and hidden treasures.

In a fascinating archaeological discovery on the island of Pantelleria, 27 Roman silver denarii were recently uncovered at the Acropolis of Santa Teresa and San Marco. The coins, dating back to the early 1st century BC, were found by a team of archaeologists led by Thomas Schäfer from the University of Tübingen, hidden during a pirate attack on the island. This discovery occurred near the site where 107 silver denarii were unearthed in 2010, alongside the famous Roman imperial busts of Caesar, Agrippina, and Titus.

A Glimpse into a Turbulent Past

Pantelleria, situated between Sicily and Tunisia, was a prime target for pirate raids in the 1st century BC, a time when the Mediterranean was rife with maritime piracy. These coins were likely hidden in haste by residents seeking to protect their valuables during one such raid. Many years later, during an excavation following recent rains, archaeologists uncovered the treasure, which included denarii minted between 94 and 74 BC, a turbulent period during the Roman Republic.

More Than Just Coins

More than just a collection of coins, this discovery sheds light on the broader historical context of Roman trade routes, political instability, and the lives of those who sought to safeguard their fortunes from the chaos of the time. Some of the coins were found beneath a rock, and according to Schäfer, this small "tesoretto" tells the story of a family or individual who hid their wealth during the height of pirate activity, but never returned to claim it.

Insights Into a Connected World

The significance of this find extends beyond the coins’ monetary value, providing key insights into the Mediterranean's interconnected world during the Roman Republic. Francesco Paolo Scarpinato, an advisor for Sicilian Cultural Heritage, noted that these objects are "not just finds but connections between historical events and figures," illuminating the complex relationships of the time.

Inspiration from the Past

As with every archaeological discovery, these 27 denarii tell a story—of danger, resilience, and a world in flux. At SCAVO, we draw inspiration from such remarkable finds, embedding the spirit of exploration, heritage, and history into every piece of our clothing. Just as these coins were hidden for centuries and now tell a forgotten story, our designs blend the past and present, with a dedication to preserving both craftsmanship and history.

Dive into the world of SCAVO, where every design is a testament to the timeless tales of our ancestors.