Mummified Corpses
Museum | Venzone | Friuli-Venezia Giulia | Italy
The Museum of the Mummies of Venzone in the city of Venzone, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, is a unique museum dedicated to the history and natural mummies discovered in the region. The mummies of Venzone are particularly remarkable as they have been preserved through natural processes and possess exceptional anthropological value.
History and Discovery
The first mummies were discovered in the crypt of the Cathedral of Venzone in 1647. Over the years, a total of 42 mummies were found, of which 15 are still preserved today. The natural mummification of the bodies is attributed to the presence of a special mold called Hypha bombicina, which thrives in the damp and dark conditions of the crypt and prevents the decay of the bodies.
Collection and Exhibitions
The museum houses a selection of these mummies, which are exhibited in the crypt of the 13th-century Chapel of San Michele. The displayed mummies offer a fascinating glimpse into the life and death rituals of past centuries and are of exceptional anthropological interest.
Activities and Events
In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum regularly organizes cultural events, including workshops, lectures, and temporary exhibitions that focus on various aspects of history and mummification. These activities promote dialogue between science, history, and the public and contribute to the cultural enrichment of the region.
The Museum of the Mummies of Venzone thus represents a significant contribution to the preservation and dissemination of the region's cultural heritage, offering visitors the opportunity to delve into the history and unique mummies of Venzone.
