On October 27th, the long-awaited opening of the Etruscan tomb discovered last April in the Osteria necropolis, within the Archaeological and Natural Park of Vulci, took place.
The excavation, led by the Vulci Foundation and the Archaeological, Fine Arts, and Landscape Superintendence of the province of Viterbo, allowed access to the interior of this tomb, number 58, which had remained untouched for about 2,600 years.
The discovery of the tomb in April 2023 had generated great anticipation within the archaeological community. The opening, attended by local and regional authorities, was also witnessed by the director of the Vulci Foundation and host, Carlo Casini.
Once the Tuff slabs sealing the entrance were carefully removed, archaeologists gained access to a large double chamber carved into the tuff rock, of significant architectural value.
Inside, an extraordinary funerary assemblage, likely belonging to an aristocratic family of the time, was found. Among the objects discovered were numerous ceramics and amphorae, some originating from Greece, containing possibly wine from the island of Chios.
Utensils and ornamental accessories made of bronze, iron, and ceramics were also uncovered, all in perfect condition.
The presence of Corinthian and Etruscan-Corinthian Greek amphorae confirms the importance of the wine trade in Vulci, strategically located between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the border with Tuscany.
Local wine amphorae were also abundant, demonstrating the significance of local wine production at that time.
According to archaeologist Carlo Casini, the discovery exceptionally documents the funerary banquet that the Etruscans prepared for their deceased, as they arranged it over two thousand years ago.
The Osteria necropolis, located at the entrance to the Archaeological and Natural Park of Vulci, continues to yield valuable remnants of our past, such as the Tomb of the Silver Hands or that of the Swallow Painter.
Now begins the thorough research of the materials found, which have remained intact for over two millennia and can provide significant historical and scientific information about life in Vulci and its aristocracy.
The discovery confirms Vulci’s importance as one of the main centers of pre-Roman Etruria, playing a key role as a commercial hub.
Regional authorities have announced their intention to continue supporting archaeological work in this area, aware of its great potential to attract quality cultural tourism.
Sources
Soprintendencia archeologica, Belle Arti e Paesaggio per la provincia di Viterbo e per l’Etruria meridionale | Finestre sull’Arte
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