Ipogeo celtico
Underground complex carved into the rock at Cividale del Friuli, on several levels, dating from the Celtic period, with its function still debated; free admission.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Celtic hypogeum is a set of underground chambers carved into the rock, spread over several levels and linked by branching passages. The walls preserve small niches, possibly intended as ossuaries, three carved masks and three decorative pillars shaped with axe blows.
According to scholars there were two phases of work. The part cut with axes may date to between 200 and 100 BC and shows Celtic craftsmanship with Mediterranean artistic influences; a later phase, late Roman or Lombard, is documented by burial niches cut with picks.
The function of the site is unclear: some favour a funerary use in the Celtic period, others think it was a prison in the Roman or Lombard age. In 1949 the scholar S. Stucchi called it “Lombard prisons” (carceri longobarde). The site has reopened to the public, accompanied by speleological guides.
Highlights
- Underground chambers carved into the rock on several levels
- Three carved masks and three decorative pillars shaped with axe blows
- Niches probably intended as ossuaries
- Function still debated: Celtic burial site or prison
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Free admission.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
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Getting there & parking
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Amenities & dining
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Events & venue rental
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Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Visits take place accompanied by speleological guides. Information: +39 0432 710 460. |
