Necropoli etrusca di Crocifisso del Tufo

About the museum

At the foot of the rock on which the Etruscan Velzna stood, several funerary areas developed: to the south that of Cannicella, to the north the necropolis of Crocifisso del Tufo, named after a 16th-century crucifix carved in a small chapel hollowed out of the tufa. The site was used as a burial ground already from the 7th century BC; from the mid-6th century BC the area took on a regular layout, with plots assigned to local families.

The burial chambers are aligned along paths that cross at right angles and form true blocks. The tombs are built of squared tufa blocks laid dry, with a corbelled or pitched roof, and have the typical cube shape; grave markers were placed on top. The uniformity of the structures has been read as a possible sign of the equality that underpinned the society of Velzna.

The necropolis is known for the numerous inscriptions on the tomb lintels, in archaic Etruscan script, with the name of the owner and the formula “I am of …”. The grave goods, of local manufacture and imported from Attica, include bucchero, painted vases, bronzes and jewellery; part of them is displayed in the Antiquarium “Mario Bizzarri”. Since 30 September 2025 the path between the tombs has been partially closed for redevelopment and accessibility works, while the antiquarium remains open to visitors.

Highlights

• Cube-shaped tufa-block tombs arranged in regular blocks
• Etruscan inscriptions on the tomb lintels
• Antiquarium “Mario Bizzarri” with the grave goods
• Bucchero and Attic vases from the grave goods
• Augmented-reality experiences with smart glasses (by booking)

Permanent exhibition

• Antiquarium «Mario Bizzarri» – Grave goods and finds from the excavations of the necropolis, including bucchero vases and gold jewellery.

Operated by

Direzione regionale Musei nazionali Umbria (Ministero della Cultura)

Visitors per year

approx. 8,470

Admission & discounts

The reductions provided for by the admission rules of state cultural sites apply. Tickets can only be paid for electronically.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

Redevelopment works and accessibility improvement works are under way at the site.

Kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Hands-on stations

By booking, handling activities with original finds are offered.

Getting there & parking

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

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