It’s not just incredible: near Rome, the first fully intact ancient skeleton of a person with gigantism has been unearthed, as per a new study.

Standing at 202 centimeters (6 feet 8 inches) tall, the man would have been a giant in 3rd century AD Rome, where the average height for men was around 167 centimeters (5 feet 6 inches). In contrast, the tallest man today measures 251 centimeters (8 feet 3 inches).

Uncovering such skeletons poses risks, as gigantism is extremely dangerous and currently affects only about three individuals per million worldwide. The condition typically begins in infancy, as poor function of the pituitary gland leads to abnormal growth.

While two partial skeletons, one from Poland and another from Egypt, had previously been identified as “probable” cases of gigantism, the Roman specimen represents the first clear case from ancient times, according to Simona Minozzi, the study’s lead researcher and a paleopathologist from the University of Pisa in Italy.

According to ancient legends, giants once roamed the earth, constructing massive pyramids and buildings, along with revered temples. Stories such as David and Goliath, along with countless fairy tales, further add to the allure of these colossal beings.

The mystery lies in why these individuals ceased to exist. The unusually large remains, believed to have been discovered by scientists in Bulgaria, may provide insight into this enigma.

The necropolis yielded around 80 skeletons, with the majority of them being fully intact. Additionally, preserved ceramic vessels filled with grain were also uncovered. However, in recent years, residents of the town stumbled upon the Titans’ cemetery and a cornfield.

Among the finds were unusually large skulls, intact skeletons, pieces of jewelry, and fragments of vessels, including a 3-meter statue. It was at this point that a team of archaeologists and historians took notice of the discovery, as recounted by the locals.