Museo di San Mamiliano a Sovana
Museum | Sovana | Tuscany | Italy
The Museo di San Mamiliano in Sovana, a historic village in Tuscany, is a significant archaeological museum dedicated to the history and culture of the region. It is located in the former church of San Mamiliano, a building with a long history that now serves as a museum.
History and Architecture
The church of San Mamiliano was founded in the 5th century and is dedicated to the holy martyr and bishop of Sovana, Mamiliano. Over the centuries, the building underwent various renovations and expansions. Today, the original structure still has its exterior walls, the Renaissance cemetery under the nave, and the crypt preserved. The church was converted into a museum to showcase the archaeological finds and history of the region.
Collection and Exhibitions
The museum houses a variety of artifacts from archaeological excavations in Sovana and the surrounding areas. Notable is the discovery of an exceptional late antique coin hoard, consisting of 498 gold coins minted in the 5th century. This treasure is of great significance as it is the only archaeological evidence of the late antique period in Sovana. In addition to the coins, the museum also displays other finds from Roman and Etruscan times, including ceramics, sculptures, and everyday objects.
Activities and Events
In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum regularly organizes cultural events, workshops, and temporary exhibitions focusing on various aspects of the region's history and culture. These activities promote an understanding of the local heritage and allow visitors to delve deeper into the history of Sovana.
The Museo di San Mamiliano thus makes a significant contribution to the preservation and dissemination of the cultural heritage of Sovana and the surrounding region, offering visitors the opportunity to discover the rich history of this historic village.