Italian archaeologists have uncovered a “monumental necropolis” in Trento, northern Italy, dating back to the early Iron Age (9th to 6th centuries BCE).

The site, containing at least 200 tombs, was discovered during restoration work on a historic building.

The graves include “grave goods” like metal weapons, amber, and glass objects, suggesting the tombs honored an elite class.

The necropolis is well-preserved, likely due to prehistoric flooding, CBS News has reported.

Researchers believe the site sheds new light on the region’s history, potentially linking the settlers to the rise of the Etruscan civilization.

Written by B.C. Begley