In a stunning archaeological discovery, scientists in Aylesbury, UK, have discovered an undamaged 1,700-year-old Roman bird’s egg. Due to its exceptional preservation, the find, which was unearthed in what is thought to have been a Roman wishing well, has enthralled both experts and the general public.
The egg was discovered over two millennia after it was placed there, hidden in a wet pit with other relics. Out of the four eggs found during the dig, three were too delicate and shattered when they were found, but one was wonderfully intact. In the well’s final years of operation, these eggs and other things were probably sacrifices to the gods, according to Oxford Archaeology’s senior project manager Edward Biddulph.
The revelation of liquid still present within the egg astonished researchers when it was discovered in August 2023, years after the initial excavation. Micro-scans conducted at the University of Kent revealed not only the egg’s intact state but also the presence of liquid contents, a rarity in such ancient specimens.
Transporting the fragile artifact to London’s Natural History Museum posed its challenges, as described by Biddulph. However, the egg now resides at the Discover Bucks Museum in Aylesbury, where scientists are delicately exploring methods to extract its contents without damaging its shell.
Other interesting discoveries, such as leather shoes, wooden tools, and an unusual basket, were found with the egg. According to Biddulph, these objects and the eggs may have been tossed into the pit as part of somber funeral offerings.
Beyond its uniqueness, this discovery is significant because it provides insight into Roman customs and beliefs, illuminating their death and spirituality-related ceremonies and activities. The tale of the Roman bird’s egg discovered whole in Aylesbury never ceases to amaze and astound specialists working to examine and conserve these relics.
