Etruscan-Roman Tomb discovered near the Castle of Casenovole

And the English version…

This is said to be one of the most important archaeological finds of the past few years, not only in the area of the Comune of Civitella Paganico, but in the whole province of Grosseto. The tomb discovered on August 11th near the Castle of Casenovole by a local archaeologist working with fellow members of the association “Odysseus” dates back to the Etruscan-Roman period and is likely to be one of the largest tombs found in the area.

The excavations started one week before the discovery and as of now either 13 or 16 burials have been found. The funeral chamber has also just been found so much more could be discovered. The tomb is composed of a “dromos”, an access corridor 3 metres long, and of the funeral chamber proper, which is located 2 metres below the ground.

Several objects have been discovered in the tomb, including 3 cinerary urns and 10 ossuaries with bowl-shaped lids. 4 bronze objects have also been found, among which a “kyathos” (a type of vase with a tall, round, slightly tapering bowl and a single, flat, long, looping handle. Its closest modern parallel would be a ladle).

The finds have been taken to the town hall while they await transporation to Siena or Grosseto where they will be studied and restored, before being placed in a permanent home, most likely the Archaeological Museum in Grosseto.

It would be excellent if there was enough material as to allow the creation of a local museum and archaeological site, even though the tomb was found within the private estate of the castle.

Here is a photo of the Castle of Casenovole taken from Civitella Marittima… from our balcony, actually…