Italian archaeologists have discovered the tomb of Marcus Nonius Macrinus, a general who served under the emperors Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius. Roman archaeologist Daniela Rossi has said that the discovery of the marble tomb was “the most important Ancient Roman monument to come to light for 20 or 30 years”. The tomb was found when archaeologists were asked to investigate ruins uncovered during building work on the banks of the Tiber at Saxa Rubra, on the Via Flaminia, north of Rome.

The area was subject to frequent flooding in ancient times. It was probably one such event that caused the tomb to collapse into the mud. Columns, decorations and the roof of the tomb were found intact. Angelo Bottini, Superintendent of Archaeology in Rome, said the tomb was “a monument of great beauty”.

Marcus Nonius Macrinus, born in Brescia (northern Italy) was a general and consul who led military campaigns for Marcus Aurelius. He became part of the emperor’s inner circle and one of his favourites, serving as proconsul in Asia. His patrician villa at Toscolano Maderno on Lake Garda has been identified and partially excavated. Macrinus is believed to have inspired Ridley Scott for Maximus Decimus Meridius, the hero of his film Gladiator, portrayed by Russell Crowe.

Source : Times online.
Adrian Murdoch's weblog on the known facts about M. Nonius Macrinus.