Necropolis of Campovalano
Museum | Campli | Abruzzi | Italy
The necropolis of Campovalano, located near Campli in the Abruzzo region of Italy, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in central Italy. It covers an area of approximately 200 hectares and includes graves dating from the late Bronze Age to the early Roman period.
Archaeological excavations, mainly conducted between 1967 and 1998, have uncovered over 600 graves. These graves come in various forms, including large mound tombs surrounded by stone rings, as well as simple pits. The burials contain a variety of grave goods that provide deep insights into burial practices and the social structure of the time.
The finds include weapons such as swords, spears, and daggers associated with male burials, as well as spindle whorls, loom weights, belts, and pendants associated with female burials. These artifacts testify to the craftsmanship and cultural influences of the society at that time.
One outstanding example is the so-called "Multimedia Mound Tomb," a reconstruction of a particularly large tomb with a diameter of 25 meters. This reconstruction allows visitors to gain a realistic impression of burial practices and the artifacts contained within.
The finds from the necropolis of Campovalano are now displayed in the National Archaeological Museum of Campli, located in the former convent of San Francesco. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the archaeological discoveries of the region and the evolution of burial culture over the centuries.
Thus, the necropolis of Campovalano represents a significant archaeological treasure that provides valuable information about the pre-Roman culture and the development of the Abruzzo region in ancient Italy.
