History and forensic art converge in Budapest with the Aquincum Museum's exhibition titled "Once We Were Like You," which features 16 facial reconstructions from skulls found at the ancient Roman settlement of Aquincum. Among these are six hyper-realistic silicone models created by sculptor Emese Gábor using 3D-printed skulls and plasticine.

Curators Peter Vamos and Lorant Vass employed DNA and anthropological analyses to trace the origins of these individuals, revealing diverse backgrounds including Italy, Scotland, Syria, and Sarmatian and Celtic tribes. The exhibition runs until 31 October 2026.

Lorant Vass noted that excavated bones typically remain catalogued in storage without recognition of the individuals they represent, and this exhibition aims to restore life and identity to these ancient remains.

Bone inflammation observed in the remains suggests that most residents endured hard labor and hunger, placing them within the lower middle class of Roman society. While the exhibition presents names and trades, curators emphasize these are historically informed interpretations rather than confirmed facts.

The exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the personal histories of Roman Aquincum's inhabitants through scientific and artistic collaboration.

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