Archaeological and Civic Museum - Villa Mirabello
Museum | Varese | Lombardia | Italy
The "Museo Civico Archeologico di Villa Mirabello" in Varese is a significant archaeological museum that provides a comprehensive insight into the history and culture of the region. Originally built in the 18th century, Villa Mirabello now houses not only the archaeological museum, but also a municipal art gallery, a butterfly and moth collection, as well as exhibitions on the Italian Risorgimento and resistance history.
The museum's archaeological collection ranges from the Old Stone Age to the Middle Ages and includes finds from various periods:
Prehistoric finds: The exhibition showcases artifacts from the Neolithic and Bronze Age pile dwellings, particularly from Isolino Virginia and Pizzo di Bodio. These finds are among the oldest in Northwest Italy and offer valuable insights into the lives of early human settlements.
Golasecca culture: An outstanding exhibit is the "Warrior Tomb of Sesto Calende", a grave from the early 6th century BC, equipped with extraordinary grave goods, including remains of a chariot and horse harness.
Roman period: The collection includes numerous finds from the Roman era, documenting the cultural assimilation of the local Celtic population into the Roman world. Particularly noteworthy are the grave goods from the necropolis of Mercallo dei Sassi and the necropolis of Rasa di Velate.
Another highlight is the so-called "Mummy of Villa Mirabello", dated between 1594 and 1646, of historical interest.
Villa Mirabello is located in the city center of Varese and offers an impressive panoramic view of Lake Varese, the Prealps, and the Alps from its location. The surrounding English landscape park invites visitors to linger and explore.
The museum is a significant cultural destination that is of interest to both professionals and the general public, providing a deep insight into the archaeological history of the region.
