Temple dedicated to goddess of virgins, wild animals discovered

ROME - A Roman temple that is almost 2,000-years-old and dedicated to Diana, the goddess of virgins and wild animals, has been found in a protected park in the Italian region of Tuscany.

The ancient religious sanctuary, found in the Maremma national park is 350 square metres large, and was discovered in perfect condition by a team of Italian and other European archaeologists following a two-year dig, Adnkronos International reported.

Traditionally, Diana is known as the “virgin” goddess charged with protecting women, and according to mythology, Diana, along with goddesses Minerva and Vesta, swore to never marry.

Diana is also associated with wild animals and nature, and so she also bears the second title “Diana, goddess of the hunt”.

The temple, which has some seven internal rooms, contained several items including 35 oil lamps, 10 coins, a bronze dog-shaped votive, two glass vials and mosaic decorations.

Three statues of Diana and her twin brother, Apollo, were also uncovered.

The temple dates between the end of the 2nd and beginning of the 3rd century AD. (ANI)