Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia

Guideline for Exploring Etruscan Necropolises: Cerveteri and Tarquinia

Introduction

This comprehensive guide aims to provide insights, practical information, and tips for visiting two significant Etruscan necropolises: Cerveteri and Tarquinia. These ancient burial sites offer a unique glimpse into the Etruscan civilization that thrived in central Italy from approximately 750 BCE to 400 BCE.

Cerveteri (Caere)

Overview

Cerveteri, also known as Caere in Etruscan, is located about 50 kilometers north of Rome and is one of the most important Etruscan cities. The necropolis of Cerveteri extends over a vast area, with more than 150 tombs dating back to the 8th century BCE.

Key Sites

Tomb of the Greek Vases (Tomba dei Vasellami Greci)

This tomb dates back to the 6th century BCE and is named for its large collection of Greek pottery. The tomb consists of a series of rooms, including a central room with five benches and a niche for an offering table.

Tomb of the Bulls (Tomba dei Tori)

The Tomb of the Bulls dates to the 5th century BCE and is one of the most famous tombs in Cerveteri. The walls are adorned with paintings depicting scenes from the myth of Heracles, including several bulls.

Banditaccia Necropolis

This vast necropolis covers an area of approximately 6 square kilometers and contains hundreds of tombs. Many of these tombs have not yet been excavated, making Banditaccia a site of ongoing archaeological research.

Practical Information

  • Opening Hours: The necropolis is open daily from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:15 PM). Closed on January 1st, May 1st, December 25th.
  • Admission: The ticket costs €8 for adults, €6 for EU citizens aged 18–24, and is free for children under 18 and certain categories of individuals (check the official website for details).
  • How to Get There: Cerveteri can be reached by train from Rome’s main railway station (Tiburtina) or from the nearest town, Tarquinia. Regular buses connect the train station with the necropolis.

Tarquinia (Tarquini)

Overview

Tarquinia, known as Tarquini in Etruscan, is another important Etruscan city located about 100 kilometers north of Rome. The ancient city’s necropolis contains over 6,000 tombs and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Key Sites

Tomb of the Lionesses (Tomba delle Leontoparde)

This 6th-century BCE tomb features stunning paintings depicting scenes from the life of the deceased, including several lionesses hunting a boar and an elegant procession of men and women.

Tomb of the Blue Demons (Tomba dei Demoni Blu)

The Tomb of the Blue Demons dates to the 5th century BCE and is famous for its intricate frescoes, including numerous scenes from the Odyssey and a series of blue demons.

Monterozzi Necropolis

The Monterozzi necropolis is home to hundreds of tombs cut into the tufa hills surrounding Tarquinia. Many of these tombs are decorated with frescoes, making it one of the most impressive Etruscan burial sites.

Practical Information

  • Opening Hours: The necropolis is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM (last admission at 6:45 PM). Closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
  • Admission: The ticket costs €10 for adults, €8 for EU citizens aged 18–24, and is free for children under 18 and certain categories of individuals (check the official website for details). Combined tickets with the Palazzo Vitelli Museum are available.
  • How to Get There: Tarquinia can be reached by train from Rome’s main railway station (Termini) or from nearby Viterbo. Regular buses connect the train station with the necropolis and city center.

Tips for Visiting

  1. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on uneven ground in both sites.
  2. Carry water and sunscreen, especially during summer months.
  3. Consult the official websites of Cerveteri (https://www.parcoarcheocerveteri.it/) and Tarquinia (http://www.necropoli-tarquinia.beniculturali.it/) for updated information on opening hours, ticket prices, and special events.
  4. Consider hiring a guide to gain a deeper understanding of the Etruscan culture and history.
  5. Take your time exploring these fascinating sites and allow yourself plenty of time to appreciate the intricate frescoes and architectural details.