In the ruins of a Roman-era sanctuary in the Swiss Alps, archaeologists have found hundreds of small, disc-shaped terracotta objects featuring indentations from projectile impacts. Analysis suggests these were used as target markers during ritualized archery or sling-shot competitions held during the festival of Diana, the goddess of the hunt.
This discovery suggests that modern Swiss traditions of communal shooting festivals may have unexpected roots in the sporting rituals of the Roman frontier. The site, located at a high-altitude pass, likely hosted seasonal gatherings where local soldiers and hunters demonstrated their prowess in honor of the divine.