CIVITAVECCHIA – A significant milestone for archaeological studies is set to take place on February 28, 2025, when the first two volumes of the Quaderni del Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Civitavecchia will be presented at the Cappella dei Condannati, located within the historic walls of the National Museum of Castel Sant’Angelo, Rome. This initiative aims to shed light on the ancient history of Civitavecchia and its surroundings through detailed academic publications supported by local cultural institutions.
Organized by the National Archaeological Museum of Civitavecchia, under the directorship of Lara Anniboletti, this editorial venture has gained support from the Civitavecchia Savings Bank Foundation and Antiqua Res, a publishing house dedicated to historical research. The event promises to be more than just the launch of books; it is aimed at enriching the cultural dialogue about Civitavecchia's ancient history and is expected to draw interest from both scholars and the wider community.
The first volume, titled L'Apollo Helios di Civitavecchia e il Colosso di Rodi, discusses one of the museum's flagship exhibits—the impressive statue of Apollo. Dating from the Adriatic era, this marble sculpture was discovered near what was once a luxurious seaside villa situated close to Santa Marinella, just north of Rome. The statue, which depicts Apollo holding a torchiere, is said to bear inspiration from the ancient Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
"The elegance and lightness of this masterpiece of ancient art transmit deep emotion," remarked Lara Anniboletti, highlighting the statue's artistic significance and its connection to global classical heritage. The text promises to provide not only detailed descriptions but also insights about its historical background, linking it to the ancient traditions and cultural exchanges across the Mediterranean.
The second volume explores the Etruscan necropolis at Cava della Scaglia, providing new data and documentation about this archaeological site. Curated by Barbara de Paolis, this book features contributions from various authors and seeks to deepen the reader's knowledge of the Etruscan civilization, particularly during the period from the 7th to 4th century BC. It emphasizes how this necropolis reflects the evolution of the coastal Etruscan community, likely connected to Tarquinia.
According to De Paolis, the volume is structured in two main sections. The first provides historical, geological, and architectural analyses of the necropolis, complemented by detailed examinations of the findings. The second section includes extensive surveys and inventories of the tombs, enriched by unique archaeological observations.
Notably, the book also incorporates innovative features such as QR codes, enabling readers to engage with virtual tours of the necropolis, offering immersive experiences far beyond traditional reading. This fusion of technology and archaeology exemplifies the museum's commitment to education and outreach.
The editorial endeavor is touted as a model of best practice, representative of the Lazio Regional Directorate of National Museums’ efforts to bridge the gap between state institutions and local communities. This initiative fosters collaboration among various stakeholders, inclusively working to construct regional cultural networks and sustainable tourism paths.
"The initiative of the Quaderni del Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Civitavecchia acts as best practice as it aligns with the objectives of the Lazio Regional Directorate of National Museums," stated contributing archaeologist Alessandro Mandolesi. This collaboration highlights the importance of integrating local knowledge and resources to promote cultural heritage and preserve historical narratives.
With the publication of these volumes, the National Archaeological Museum of Civitavecchia not only adds to the scholarly discourse surrounding its artifacts but also opens avenues for public education and appreciation of its historical significance. The residents and visitors alike will have the opportunity to engage with the rich past of Civitavecchia through these carefully curated works.
Through endeavors like this, the museum aims to inspire curiosity and encourage broader engagement with the historical narratives of the region. The presentation of the Quaderni del Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Civitavecchia is expected to mark the beginning of an exciting chapter for archaeological studies focused on ancient Civitavecchia.