In 1739, archaeologists uncovered a mysterious 12-sided Roman object; 287 years later, its true purpose remains unknown

Ancient Roman artifacts remain to offer glimpses into the craftsmanship, culture and everyday life of a civilization that shaped much of Europe. Yet some discoveries raise more queries than they answer. Among them is the Roman dodecahedron, an intricately crafted, 12-sided metal object whose real purpose continues to be one of archaeology’s enduring mysteries.

The first known dodecahedron was found in Hertfordshire, England, in 1739. Almost three centuries later, researchers still have no comprehended explanation for what these unusual objects were made to do. Over 130 examples have been discovered in the former Roman Empire, and a latest find in the English village of Norton Disney has renewed interest in the enigmatic artifacts.

A Remarkable Discovery in England

A volunteer with the Norton Disney History and Archaeology Group found a Roman dodecahedron in a field in Lincolnshire in the summer. The group's secretary, Richard Parker, explained the find to Smithsonian magazine as “the find of a lifetime.”


The discovery happened during a two-week archaeological search of a field where metal detectorists had earlier uncovered Roman coins and brooches.

The artifact is hollow, almost the size of a grapefruit and made of copper alloy. It has 12 flat sides, each showing a circular opening, with studs placed at the corners. Its remarkable condition distinguishes it from several early discovered examples, which have been discovered broken or incomplete.

The Norton Disney History and Archaeology Group also admired the object's craftsmanship, citing it as “well cast, complete with no damage” and “an example of very fine craftsmanship, finished to a high standard.”

As per the group, the discovery offers the number of Roman dodecahedrons discovered in Britain to 33. Around 130 have been discovered in the northwestern provinces of the Roman Empire. The freshly uncovered example is also larger than several others, some of which are reportedly no larger than a golf ball.

What Is a Roman Dodecahedron?

A dodecahedron is a geometric object having 12 faces. Roman examples normally feature pentagonal sides with circular openings leading into a hollow interior. Small knobs or studs commonly decorate their corners, and their sizes, materials and finishes differ.

Although some examples are made from various metals or other materials, many are associated with the Roman period between the second and third centuries C.E. Some specimens may date to as early as the first century C.E.

Despite their distribution in former Roman territories, these objects have a major limitation for researchers: no surviving historical texts or visual records clearly describe their function.

Why Their Purpose Remains Unclear

The lack of written descriptions or depictions makes it challenging to find how dodecahedrons fitted into Roman life. Their different sizes and elaborate construction have made researchers consider many possibilities, from practical applications to religious or ceremonial uses.

The Norton Disney group questions whether the objects were made for routine practical tasks. Parker described that the newly discovered example was cast in “sticky,” leaden metal, making the casting procedure challenging, while its texture was fragile.

As the group cited: “They are not of a standard size, so will not be measuring devices. They don’t show signs of wear, so they are not a tool.”

These observations do not conclusively rule out practical applications, but they help describe why researchers remain to debate the artifacts' real purpose.

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A Mystery That Continues to Fascinate Archaeologists

Its discovery has offered researchers another opportunity to analyze an object that has resisted a definitive interpretation for centuries. Although the increasing collection of known examples provides more material for comparison, the absence of clear historical references remains to limit what archaeologists can conclude.

Parker told Smithsonian magazine that the artifact still has much to disclose.

“It still holds many secrets,” he said. “It is hoped some more scientific tests on the dodecahedron will reveal more clues about its possible use and purpose.”

Currently, the Roman dodecahedron remains an intriguing reminder that even objects produced with considerable skill can leave behind unanswered questions. Whether intended for measurement, practical work, religious events or another purpose entirely, these unusual artifacts remain to challenge researchers seeking to know the daily practices and beliefs of the ancient Roman world.

Source: Artnet News and Smithsonian Magazine