Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Archaeologists in Rome dig up ancient tannery
An ancient tannery that is being dug up in Rome — believed to be the largest ever found in the capital — is threatened by railway construction, and archaeologists said Tuesday they might need to move the entire complex.

The 1,050-square meter (1,255-square yard) complex includes a tannery dating between the 2nd and 3rd century, as well as burial sites and part of a Roman road.

At least 97 tubs, some measuring 1 meter (3.28-feet) diameter, have been dug up so far in the tannery, archaeologists said.