Archeological Museum La Civitella

Nestled in the heart of Chieti, Italy, the Archeological Museum La Civitella, locally known as Museo archeologico La Civitella, is a captivating journey through time, where ancient history and modern exhibition techniques converge. This museum, a treasure trove of artifacts and stories, is part of the larger La Civitella Archaeological Park, making it an essential visit for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The Origins and Evolution of the Museum

The inception of the Archeological Museum La Civitella can be traced back to the dedicated efforts of Vincenzo Zecca, a superintendent who, after conducting extensive excavations in Chieti, established the first collection of archaeological materials. Initially housed in the municipal building, the collection included notable artifacts such as the tomb of the freedman Lusius Storax, discovered in the Santa Maria Calvona district.

Despite early setbacks, including a temporary closure due to financial constraints, the vision for the museum persisted. In 1938, the Antiquarium Teatinum was established in the former church of San Paolo dei Templi Romani, showcasing an impressive array of archaeological finds from Chieti. This collection eventually became part of the National Archaeological Museum of Villa Frigerj.

The discovery of the Roman amphitheater beneath the municipal stadium in 1982 marked a significant turning point. This led to the construction of a new stadium in Chieti Scalo and the commencement of archaeological excavations, culminating in the early 2000s. The modern structure of the Archeological Museum La Civitella, as we see it today, emerged from a series of developments between 2008 and 2014. The museum now stands as a testament to the rich history of Teate, the ancient city founded by the Marrucini and later conquered by the Romans, which evolved into modern-day Chieti in the 9th century.

Exploring the Museum's Sections

The Archeological Museum La Civitella offers a comprehensive exploration of Chieti's history through its meticulously curated sections:

The Beginning of Urban History

This section delves into the Republican era (3rd-2nd century BC), featuring terracotta pediments from a 2nd-century BC temple. Visitors can marvel at the reconstructed pediments, including the Capitolium of ancient Teate, depicting 11 characters such as the Capitoline Triad, Mercury, Mars, and Apollo. Another pediment showcases Jupiter, the Dioscuri, Venus, and Helen, while a third features Apollo flanked by the Muses, with Bacchus and Hercules at the corners.

From Rome to Yesterday

This section is organized into thematic areas: the Forum, the Theatre, the Amphitheatre, the Baths, and the Necropolis. It brings the Roman city of Teate to life through 1:1 scale reconstructions, complemented by evocative displays, films, sounds, and lighting effects. Highlights include marble portraits of Augustus and Titus, artifacts from the Forum, and remnants from the Baths adorned with polychrome marbles. The section dedicated to funerary practices features a grand monument depicting gladiatorial combat and the figure of Lusius Storax, surrounded by Teatine magistrates and the public.

The Land of the Marrucini

This section showcases artifacts from the middle and lower Pescara Valley, including stone tools dating back 400,000 years, Neolithic ceramics, and votive objects. The journey continues with exhibits from the Stone Age, ceramics from the Catignano village, and finds from the Bolognano Cave, a significant prehistoric and Neolithic site in Abruzzo. The Iron Age is represented by bronzes and weapons from Villamagna, Guardiagrele, and Pretoro. The pre-Teate era is illustrated with items such as a Gallic helmet and a balsamary shaped like a woman's head.

The First Archaeological Museum

This section traces the history of the museum itself, from the late 19th-century collections to the establishment of the Antiquarium Teatinum in 1938. It features lamps, flints, and votive statuettes from Chieti and its surrounding areas, offering a glimpse into the early days of archaeological exploration in the region.

The La Civitella Archaeological Path

The Roman amphitheater, a standout monument of ancient Teate, is an integral part of the La Civitella Archaeological Park. Excavations revealed the amphitheater and a portico of three sacred buildings from the 2nd century BC. The hill of La Civitella, once a sacred area during the Marrucini's initial settlement phase, served various roles throughout history, including a medieval quarry, a necropolis, and a market square during the Bourbon era.

Today, the amphitheater stands as a testament to the rich history of Chieti, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past. The surrounding area, once a bustling marketplace and military training ground, now invites visitors to explore and reflect on the layers of history that have shaped this remarkable site.

In conclusion, the Archeological Museum La Civitella is more than just a museum; it is a gateway to the ancient world of Chieti, where history comes alive through carefully preserved artifacts and immersive exhibits. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, a visit to this museum promises a captivating journey through time, revealing the stories and secrets of an ancient city that continues to inspire and fascinate.