The find is one of the most significant in the whole Mediterranean region, according to excavation leader Jacopo Tabolli, a historian at the University for Foreigners in Siena. It all started with small unidentified fragments that showed up in the mud and water, like a glimmering coin, a hand, or an elbow. Gradually the whole statue appeared, followed by many more.

They date back to a time of great upturn in Tuscan history. The shift from Etruscan to Roman rule was taking place through hard-fought battles. After the Romans eventually won, they changed Etruscan culture entirely by burying or destroying historical items.

Among the statues are those of Hygieia, Apollo, and other Greco-Roman mythological beings. Some of them had Latin and Etruscan inscriptions with the names of important Etruscan families.

Chiara Fermo, an archaeologist at the University of Siena, was particularly struck by the quality of the details the statues had. She pointed out that a female statue was entirely bejeweled, and had very detailed necklaces and earrings. The scientist gave this statue as an example of what a woman of the time must have looked like.

Scientists think that the statues were immersed in thermal waters in some kind of ritual. People gave to the water because they hoped that the water would give something back to them. However, researchers don’t know the exact reason the statues were drowned aside from guesses. What they do know is that the waters helped keep them in great condition. The mud created an atmosphere without oxygen, which protected the bronze statues from microorganisms.

People used the area’s thermal baths until the fifth century C.E. The researchers took the statues and other findings to a nearby restoration lab in the town of Grosseto. Eventually, they’ll be shown in a new museum opening in San Casciano.

The York Beach Surf Club hotel in Maine, named after the club founded by Sonny Perkins over six decades ago, opens its doors on June 1st. With 42 guest rooms, 10 bungalows, and a range of amenities, like a heated saltwater pool with a pool bar, the resort offers an indulging beachfront experience.

The location also has a coffee shop, a coastal-inspired eatery, and a raw oyster and cocktail bar that await guests upon their arrival. Later in the summer, a rooftop fine dining restaurant will also debut.

Every aspect of the resort pays homage to the surfing culture and local history. From the carefully selected wood resembling classic mid-century woodie wagons to the curved partitions mirroring the outline of a ’60s longboard, the design incorporates subtle references to the sport. The walls of the guest rooms and public areas are adorned with hundreds of photographs showcasing the evolution of surfing in southern Maine, along with original 1960s surfboards gifted by Sonny Perkins and other members of the original York Beach Surf Club.

The resort’s interior design embraces a concept called Scandinavian Modern Maine. It blends modern minimalism with vibrant colors and traditional coastal motifs. Each room and bungalow features a balcony or patio overlooking the ocean or the pool. Guests can expect luxurious amenities, including custom-designed furniture, Bellino fine linens, large flat-screen TVs, and walk-in rain showers.

When it comes to dining, the place offers a diverse range of culinary experiences. The all-day casual eatery serves coastal classics like lobster rolls and blackened tuna tacos. For a unique experience, guests can visit The Rolling Pearl, a converted 1960s milk truck serving as the resort’s signature raw bar.

In addition to its elegant facilities, The York Beach Surf Club hotel provides a rich cultural program. Live music performances, food and wine events, art installations showcasing local artists, and of course, plenty of surfing opportunities await guests. Private surfing lessons are available for those looking to improve their skills, while complimentary foam surfboards and weekend yoga classes cater to various interests. Those who prefer a more relaxed experience can enjoy the communal firepits and oceanfront lawn with a drink in hand.

With its blend of nostalgia, luxury, and a vibrant surfing atmosphere, The York Beach Surf Club hotel stands as a world-class resort that embodies the spirit of Maine’s surfing culture. Whether guests choose to ride the waves, indulge in delicious cuisine, or simply bask in the coastal ambiance, this beachfront haven offers an unforgettable experience for all.