Tomb of the Roaring Lions

The Tomb of the Roaring Lions is an archaeological site at the ancient city of Veii, Italy. It is the oldest Etruscan tomb found and oldest burial chamber with frescoes in Europe. The site dates at least to the late 7th century BCE and was discovered in 2006 after an accused tomb robber led authorities to the burial chamber in the hope of leniency.

The site is located on a hill in a wheat field less than 13 miles north of Rome and may contain important artifacts which will allow further research into the Etruscan civilization. It was named the "Tomb of the Roaring Lions" after the four-legged animal figures on the frescoes of the tomb's walls. (The figures have also been hypothesized to be deer or horses instead of lions.)

References

• David, Ariel. "Police informant leads the way to 'Tomb of Roaring Lions.'" Associated Press. 17 June 2006.
• New York Times; June 17, 2006; Accused Tomb Robber Leads Police to Ancient Tomb in Italy