In Tuscany, An Etruscan Tomb Is Unearthed By Locals

The recent unearthing of an Etruscan tomb in Tuscany relied on an unconventional work force: not professional archaeologists but local amateurs. “If it weren’t for amateur groups … much of Italy’s ancient heritage would be even more at risk to random plundering by tomb robbers, said Gabriella Barbieri, who is the state official in charge of protecting the area’s archaeological heritage and granted permission for the excavation. ‘The more citizens are concerned, they more they can help us,’ she said. ‘The state can’t be everywhere at once.'”