Lake Bolsena, a volcanic lake in central Italy, has yielded a 3,000-year-old clay figurine, believed to represent an ancient goddess. This figurine was discovered at the Gran Carro archaeological site, thought to be the submerged remains of an Iron Age village dating back to the 10th or 9th century BC. Remarkably, after 3000 years of submersion, the figure still bears the fingerprints of its maker. A Rare Glimpse into Early Iron Age Rituals The discovery was made by the personnel of the Underwater Archaeology Service, followed by the recovery and initial conservation treatment carried out by the underwater restorers of CSR Restauro Beni Culturali, reports LBV. The figurine measures approximately 6 inches (15 centimeters) in length, and is crudely finished, almost like it is a work in progress. The fingerprints offer a tangible connection to the ancient sculptor of the past. The impression of a fabric pattern on the figurine suggests that it was originally clothed, possibly as part of a domestic ritual. Archaeologists believe the figurine was used in votive practices, where prayers or offerings were directed to the figurine, indicating its role in the spiritual life of the Iron Age inhabitants, explains Live Science. Read moreSection: ArtifactsOther ArtifactsNewsHistory & ArchaeologyRead Later