Archaeologists in France have discovered ancient tablets inscribed with curses, revealing intriguing insights into the past. (Photo included)

During excavations beneath an 18th-century hospital in northwestern France, archaeologists uncovered a necropolis from the Roman era. Researchers unearthed over 60 graves and 21 lead tablets inscribed with curses, shedding light on ancient religious practices, writes Arkeonews.

In Orleans, the archaeologists discovered graves arranged in neat rows along a wall. Some of the burials contained lead tablets with curses that were typically used to appeal to the gods for justice or revenge.

One notable tablet found between the legs of a man buried with a vase and coins was meticulously analyzed using image transformation techniques. This method enabled researchers to virtually unfold the tablet and decipher its inscriptions, which included both Latin and Gaulish text, an extinct Celtic language.

The deciphered text invoked Mars, the Roman god of war, demanding a curse against several individuals accused of unjust actions. The inscription read:

"To Mars the King, piercing through names. Let these men and women, named below, be cursed for committing a wicked and unjust act, as well as all those who were accomplices to these men and women."

Researchers also found a list of names associated with the curse. This tablet serves as a rare and detailed example of how language, culture, and religion intersected during the Roman occupation of Gaul.

Advanced technologies such as X-ray tomography are currently being used to analyze another tablet from the cemetery. As they continue to translate the remaining inscriptions, researchers hope to uncover more information about ancient beliefs, the Roman conquest of Gaul, and the integration of Gallic culture.

While the excavation of the necropolis is expected to conclude soon, ongoing analysis of the graves, tablets, and artifacts promises to contribute valuable insights into this historical period.

We also discussed who built the House of the Dragon and why. Scholars have only theories regarding the purpose of these monuments.