the incredible discoveries of the Daunian Speleological Group in the Bonamorone hypogeum in Agrigento. Ancient graffiti and fossils revealed in a 4th century BC aqueduct
Introduction to the Bonamorone Hypogeum
A team of speleologists from the Dauno Speleological Group undertook an exploratory mission in the hypogeum of Bonamorone, an ancient aqueduct dating back to the 4th-5th century BC, located in Agrigento.
This extraordinary underground site, which feeds the historic Bonamorone fountain, extends for about a kilometer of intricate tunnels, connecting with other underground complexes in the area.
Historical and Scientific Importance of Exploration
During the exploration, the speleologists meticulously documented the traces left by the tools used to excavate the hypogeum.
The macro photographs and casts collected will be compared with those of other underground sites to identify any similarities in the tools and excavation techniques used.
These comparison methods, similar to those used by forensic scientists, will offer new insights into ancient technology.
Archaeological Discoveries: Graffiti and Fossils
Another significant discovery was that of the fossils incorporated into the walls of the hypogeum, which were meticulously documented.
However, the most surprising revelations emerged during the inspections: engravings and graffiti made in later periods, presumably by people who were responsible for the maintenance of the aqueduct. Among these carvings, a cross with a date of 1700 particularly stands out.
“We found various engravings, writings and drawings dating back to later periods. Some of these graffiti, although covered by a thin limestone patina, are still legible and will be the subject of further historical research”, declared the spokesperson of the Dauno Speleological Group.
This historical and scientific research, conducted in the complex network of underground aqueducts of Agrigento, will contribute to a greater understanding of the techniques and daily life in antiquity.
The work of the Dauno Speleological Group will be presented to the public on the occasion of Agrigento Capital of Culture 2025, offering a rare opportunity to see these exceptional discoveries.
Community Involvement and Future Developments
Furthermore, given the water crisis affecting Agrigento, the Prefecture and the Municipality have urged the group to evaluate the possibility that the hypogeum could contribute to the city’s water supply.
“The water flow rate is currently not sufficient for the entire city, but it could continue to feed the Bonamorone fountain,” explained one of the researchers.
This exploration not only sheds new light on Agrigento’s past, but also opens new perspectives for the conservation and enhancement of its historical heritage.
Citizens and history enthusiasts can follow the progress of the Dauno Speleological Group and discover other wonders of the Agrigento area through the website agrigentoierieoggi.it, the Facebook page agrigentoierieoggi and the YouTube channel Agrigento yesterday and today. Don’t forget to explore and purchase the books edited by the historian Elio Di Bella on Amazon, available in the dedicated section of the site.
