Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia in Italy

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2004
Size of heritage: 327 ha
- Buffer zone: 4,932 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 12,102°
Latitude: 42,007°

Summary

These two large Etruscan cemeteries reflect different types of burial practices from the 9th to the 1st century BC, and bear witness to the achievements of Etruscan culture. Which over nine centuries developed the earliest urban civilization in the northern Mediterranean. Some of the tombs are monumental, cut in rock and topped by impressive tumuli (burial mounds). Many feature carvings on their walls, others have wall paintings of outstanding quality. The necropolis near Cerveteri, known as Banditaccia, contains thousands of tombs organized in a city-like plan, with streets, small squares and neighbourhoods. The site contains very different types of tombs: trenches cut in rock; tumuli; and some, also carved in rock, in the shape of huts or houses with a wealth of structural details. These provide the only surviving evidence of Etruscan residential architecture. The necropolis of Tarquinia, also known as Monterozzi, contains 6,000 graves cut in the rock. It is famous for its 200 painted tombs, the earliest of which date from the 7th century BC.

Location on Map

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Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia

The Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia, located in the Provinces of Rome and Viterbo in the Latium region of Italy, are two remarkable UNESCO World Heritage sites that provide a glimpse into the ancient Etruscan civilization. These necropolises, or burial grounds, are a testament to the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the Etruscans, who thrived in central Italy from the 9th to the 1st century BCE.

History

The Etruscans were a highly advanced civilization that predated the Roman Empire. They were known for their sophisticated art, architecture, and engineering skills. The necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia were created as burial sites for the Etruscan elite, reflecting their beliefs and customs surrounding death and the afterlife.

Cerveteri, known as Caere in ancient times, was one of the most important Etruscan cities. The necropolis of Cerveteri, known as Banditaccia, covers an area of over 400 hectares and contains thousands of tombs, including impressive tumuli, or burial mounds. These tombs were constructed using stone and decorated with intricate frescoes depicting scenes from Etruscan life and mythology.

Tarquinia, known as Tarchuna in ancient times, was another significant Etruscan city. The necropolis of Tarquinia, known as Monterozzi, is located on a hillside and contains over 6,000 tombs. These tombs, carved into the rock, feature elaborate wall paintings that provide valuable insights into Etruscan society, including their religious beliefs, social hierarchy, and daily life.

Current State

The Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia are exceptionally well-preserved, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the ancient Etruscan world. The tombs, with their intricate decorations and architectural features, provide a fascinating glimpse into the artistic and cultural achievements of the Etruscans.

Efforts have been made to protect and conserve these sites, ensuring their long-term preservation. The necropolises are managed by local authorities and are open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the tombs and learn about the Etruscan civilization through guided tours and informative displays.

Both necropolises have visitor centers that provide detailed information about the history, art, and archaeology of the sites. These centers also offer educational programs and exhibitions to enhance visitors' understanding and appreciation of the Etruscan culture.

Address
Distance: 6,1 mi
Via Baglione, 13
00062 Bracciano
Italy

Time Information

Checkout: 20:00 - Checkin: 15:30
Reception
Weekday: 8:30 - 20:00 (lunchbreak: 11:00 - 15:30)
Weekend: 8:30 - 20:00 (lunchbreak: 11:00 - 15:30)

Videos from the area

Softair a Cerveteri con i Blackside, i Delta Caere e i Red Garret

Published: November 13, 2012
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: wwwblacksideit

Giornata piovosa, però ci siamo divertiti ugualmente.

Caparezza - La rivoluzione Del Sessintutto / Live @ Etruria Eco Festival, Cerveteri

Published: August 17, 2012
Length: 36:19 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Matteo Bovi

Caparezza La rivoluzione Del Sessintutto Live @ Etruria Eco Festival, Cerveteri 16-08-2012.

Caparezza -Vengo Dalla Luna / Live @ Etruria Eco Festival, Cerveteri

Published: August 18, 2012
Length: 28:13 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Matteo Bovi

Caparezza Vengo Dalla Luna Live @ Etruria Eco Festival, Cerveteri 16-08-2012.

Cerveteri - Bracciano in bici

Published: November 21, 2012
Length: 14:34 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: pazgopro

Escursione in MTB dalla necropoli di Cerveteri per Monte la Guardia, Castel Giuliano, Manziana,Bracciano per poi ritornare a Cerveteri Durata della scampagnata circa 4 ore.