Uncovering Surprising Discoveries in an Ancient Roman Ruin

Archaeologists have discovered a pit of medical waste rubbish dating back to the Renaissance in the 16th century CE at the site of Caesar's Forum in Rome. The dump may have been used to dispose of potentially infectious objects to attempt to curtail the spread of epidemics. The artifacts included medical equipment, ceramic medicine containers, and ceramic figurines that were likely personal effects. The discovery sheds light on Renaissance medical waste disposal as a means of disease control in a heavily populated city.