In the town of Licata (the ancient Greek Finziade), Sicily, archaeologists have discovered a mask mold that, according to initial interpretations, could represent Medusa, the Greek mythological figure known for her petrifying gaze and snake-filled hair. This discovery was made during excavations in the so-called “House 18,” a building dating back to the late Republican period, which, in its final years of use around the early 1st century BCE, was likely converted into an artisanal workshop specializing in mask production.
The discovery is not an isolated one, as other remains related to this artisanal activity have been identified at the same site. Evidence suggests that mask production played a significant role in the local economy and cultural expressions of ancient Finziade, highlighting the importance of symbolism and craftsmanship in Roman Sicily.
House 18, located in the archaeological area of Finziade, offers a fascinating example of how residential structures could be repurposed for commercial or industrial use during times of social and economic change.

Originally designed as a residence from the late Republican period, the transformations undergone by this structure reflect an adaptation process culminating in the creation of a space dedicated to artisanal production. Archaeologists have found multiple mask molds in the same context, confirming the significance of this activity in the region.
Among the most notable pieces is the mold that likely represents Medusa, an icon rich in symbolic meanings. In Greek mythology, Medusa was one of the three Gorgons and symbolized both danger and protection. Her image was frequently used in decorative and architectural objects as an amulet to ward off evil.
This discovery is part of the Finziade Project, a research program carried out under the supervision of the Parco Archeologico della Valle dei Templi di Agrigento, led by Roberto Sciarratta. The project also involves collaboration with the CNR-Ispc (National Research Council – Institute of Cultural Heritage Sciences) in Catania.

The archaeologists leading the program, Alessio Toscano Raffa and Maria Concetta Parello, head the scientific efforts to uncover Finziade’s secrets, while Rosario Callea, from the Parco della Valle dei Templi, coordinates logistical aspects. This interdisciplinary collaboration has enabled a comprehensive approach combining archaeological excavations, historical studies, and advanced scientific analyses.
The discovery of this mask mold provides insights into the symbolic and cultural aspects of the region during the Roman period. The production of masks may have been linked to theatrical, ritual, or decorative contexts, underscoring the intersection between daily life and spiritual beliefs in antiquity.
Roman Sicily, located at a strategic point in the Mediterranean, was a cultural melting pot where Greek, Roman, and local influences intertwined. Discoveries like this help us better understand how these influences manifested in the region’s economic and artistic activities.
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