National Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo

Nestled in the heart of Chieti, Italy, the National Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo, known locally as Museo archeologico nazionale d'Abruzzo, is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts and historical wonders. Housed in the neoclassical Villa Frigerj, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the rich cultural heritage of the Abruzzo region, from prehistoric times to the late Imperial age.

The History of the National Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo

The museum's story begins with Villa Frigerj, a neoclassical building constructed around 1830 by Baron Ferrante Frigerj, designed by Enrico Riccio. Initially serving as the seat of the Technical Institute Ferdinando Galiani in the early 20th century, the villa later became the property of the municipality of Chieti. After World War II, the villa was transferred to the state and, in 1959, transformed into the National Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo under the guidance of Superintendent Valerio Cianfarani. The inauguration was graced by the presence of the President of the Republic, Giovanni Gronchi.

Over the years, the museum has undergone several renovations to accommodate new acquisitions and donations. Notably, after the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake, the museum's collection was temporarily secured to ensure the building's stability. The most recent reorganization of the exhibits took place in 2011, ensuring that the museum continues to provide an engaging and comprehensive experience for its visitors.

Exploring the Museum's Collections

The National Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo is divided into seven sections, each offering a unique glimpse into different aspects of the region's ancient history. The ground floor houses the Pansa Collection, the Numismatic Collection, and various Roman artifacts, while the first floor showcases pre-Roman funerary practices, Italic sculpture, anthropological findings, and a special exhibition dedicated to Hercules.

The Pansa Collection

The Pansa Collection, established in 1992, is named after Giovanni Pansa, an influential lawyer and passionate antiquarian from Sulmona. This collection features an array of everyday objects from the Italic peoples of Abruzzo, including bronze figurines, jewelry, glassware, ivory items, combs, perfume vases, armor, helmets, and fibulae. These artifacts provide a fascinating insight into the daily lives and customs of the region's ancient inhabitants.

The Numismatic Collection

The Numismatic Collection is a highlight for history enthusiasts, with over 15,000 coins spanning from the 4th century BC to the 19th century AD. This extensive collection includes coins from the Samnite tribes of Abruzzo, as well as those used during the Byzantine, Lombard, Norman, Frederick, Angevin, Aragonese, and Spanish periods. Among the notable pieces is an aureus of Emperor Galba and a 1858 francescone. The collection offers a detailed reconstruction of the economic and financial history of ancient Abruzzo.

The Warrior of Capestrano

One of the museum's most iconic exhibits is the Warrior of Capestrano, housed in a specially designed room created by Mimmo Paladino in 2011. This remarkable Italic funerary statue, dating back to the 6th century BC, depicts King Nevio Pompuledio and was discovered in the necropolis of Capestrano. The statue's imposing presence and intricate details make it a must-see for visitors, providing a powerful connection to the ancient past.

Funerary Practices and Italic Sculpture

On the first floor, the museum delves into the funerary practices of pre-Roman Abruzzo, showcasing tomb furnishings from the 10th to the 4th centuries BC. These artifacts, sourced from necropolises across the region, include tableware, weapons, Phoenician glass pendants, a corolla chalice, decorated sandals, and breastplate discs. The Italic sculpture section features significant finds such as the Female Torso from Capestrano and three funerary steles with inscriptions in the southern Picene language from Penna Sant'Andrea.

Anthropological Findings

The anthropological section offers a unique perspective on the biological remains from the Necropolis of Alfedena, dating back to the 5th century BC. These remains provide valuable insights into the physical characteristics, diet, health, fertility rates, and life expectancy of the ancient inhabitants of Abruzzo.

The Hercules Exhibition

The Ecco...Ercole appare exhibition is another highlight, featuring a bronze statuette of Hercules at rest, discovered in the sanctuary of Hercules Curino on Mount Morrone near Sulmona. The exhibition includes a life-sized reconstruction of the shrine that housed the statuette, along with other archaeological finds from the sanctuary.

In conclusion, the National Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo is a captivating destination for anyone interested in the ancient history and culture of this beautiful Italian region. Its diverse collections and thoughtfully curated exhibits offer a rich and immersive experience, making it a must-visit attraction in Chieti.