It’s Fun to Know: Subway Construction and Treasure Hunting
Building a new subway line is difficult, expensive work. Imagine how much more difficult and expensive it gets if you have to constantly stop construction so archaeologists can study the ancient remains you’ve dug up. Such is the case in Rome, where digging for a subway line has uncovered artifacts and structures from the Renaissance, medieval times, and, of course, the Roman Empire.
The finds often trigger disagreements between conservationists and developers eager to restart work. But the government has the final say as to how long the scientists have to study the material, as well as whether they can remove it for further study instead of allowing it to be destroyed by the new construction.
(Source: National Geographic )
