Cosmic ray study finds ancient Greek burial chamber in Italy

·

A recent study has discovered a 2500-year-old ancient Greek city ten metres below the current street level in Naples, Italy. 

Remains of the ancient city of Neapolis were discovered by installing detectors underground that were able to capture radiographic images. 

The study, published in the Scientific Reports journal, observed known structures in the ancient city, as well as new structures such as a hidden, inaccessible burial chamber.

Fragments of Ancient Greek burial chambers. Image: Scientific Reports.

Researchers who participated in the study were aware of the Greek burials but were unable to access them until they used cosmic rays in a research technique known as “muography.” 

According to Smithsonian Mag, Ancient Neapolis was a necropolis where Greeks built grand family tombs that grew into a town with paths and roads in “a city of the dead.”

A series of natural disasters led to the burial of the necropolis, which now sits below the bustling city of Naples in Italy.

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

Chasing an Aussie childhood memory all the way to a Suzi Quatro concert in Poland

I've been living in Greece for a long time now and being so far away from Australia, the country I was born and grew up in, sometimes gets to me.

Melbourne musicians to honour Achilles Yiangoulli in special tribute concert

A powerful evening of music and remembrance will take place at TheBrunswick Ballroom in Brunswick, on Thursday.

Greek olive oil in 2026: Hope and concern at the Food Expo

At the Food Expo in Athens, conversations about Greek olive oil in 2026 reflected both optimism and unease.

Fronditha Care honoured with international recognition

Fronditha Care has been celebrated as a finalist at the 14th Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards (2026).

HMSA and PRONIA collaborate on educational event ‘Understanding Back Pain’

This event will help to unpack the causes, when to seek help, pathways for diagnosis and options for the management of back pain.

You May Also Like

Meet and mingle at a joint event by the Kytherians and Castellorizians in Sydney

Kytherian Association of Australia will hold a networking event on Thursday, March 16 at Cherries at Mountbatten Hotel in Sydney, NSW.

Prominent Greek-Cypriot doctor Jack Kerry dies aged 87

Prominent Greek-Cypriot doctor from Adelaide, Jack Kerry, dies at age 87 after working as a doctor for more than 60 years.

What led AFL footballer Josh Rachele to call the Adelaide Crows home

The Greek-Italian-Australian midfielder says he has found a second family in the Adelaide Crows after being selected in the AFL Draft.