The Treasure Trove of the Teatro Regio
This precious hoard, hidden inside a ceramic jar, was discovered in 1821 during the excavation for the foundations of Parma’s Teatro Regio (Royal Theatre). Though lost and scattered at the time of its find, the treasure was later rediscovered thanks to the efforts of Pietro De Lama, director of the Ducal Museum of Antiquities, and the intervention of Duchess Maria Luigia, who not only rewarded the finders but also ensured the objects were formally entrusted to the museum.
The treasure includes 33 gold aurei and 16 gold ornaments, likely military gifts or rewards. Its owner—perhaps a general or a high-ranking imperial officer—had buried it for safekeeping, possibly during one of several turbulent episodes, such as the invasions of the Alamanni and Iuthungi in 259 CE, the assassination of Emperor Gallienus during the siege of Milan in 268, or Emperor Aurelian’s defeat at Piacenza in 271.
The gold coins span a broad timeframe, suggesting that the hoard was accumulated over many years, with examples ranging from the reign of Nero in the late 1st century CE to that of Trajan Decius in the 3rd. The latest coin, a gold aureus of Gallienus, is set in a finely decorated gold frame with a loop—likely worn as a pendant—and helps date the moment the hoard was buried.
The jewelry is just as striking. There are four pairs of bracelets made of twisted gold wire, some smooth, others fluted, using between two and six strands. A cruciform brooch, three rings (two with inlaid stones), and three necklaces are also part of the collection. One necklace is made in a delicate “loop-in-loop” weave, while the other two are simple chains—probably fragments of the same original piece.
Among the rings, two feature blue hardstone intaglios. One shows a warrior holding a helmet and spear, with a shield at his feet. The other has faint traces of a leafy motif around the bezel, with hints of black enamel still clinging to the decoration.