3 of the most fascinating and unknown archaeological sites: a journey into Tuscan Maremma
Maremma is a land of great historical and archaeological value, with thousands’ years old archaeological sites. In this article we will explore 3 little known places which nevertheless retain a unique charm.
Sovana’s Necropolises
Sovana is one of the oldest villages in the Maremma and hosts one of the most important Etruscan necropolises in the area. Dating back to the 4th – 3rd century BC, the Etruscan Necropolis is famous above all for the Ildebranda Tomb, a monumental temple-shaped funerary structure dug into the tuff. The tombs of Sovana are often decorated with sculptures and reliefs depicting fantastic animals and mythological figures and the importance of the necropolis and its complex architecture reflect the importance of the cult of the dead in Etruscan culture.
For more information on the site you can check the Parco Archeologico del Tufo
Sorano and the rocky settlement of Vitozza
Sorano is a medieval village perched on a tuff spur and boasts an important rock settlement, Vitozza, which extends for approximately 3 km. Probably inhabited since Etruscan times, it made its appearance in the annals around 900 AD. Vitozza has over 200 caves dug into the tuff, used as homes, stables and warehouses. In addition to the caves, there are the remains of medieval fortifications and two castles, which testify to the defensive function of the settlement. Even though it was abandoned in the 18th century, Vitozza retains its charm thanks to the natural landscape and ruins that offer a glimpse of medieval life in Maremma.
For more information on the site you can check the Parco Archeologico del Tufo
Poggio Buco
Poggio Buco is a very interesting archaeological site in the area. The settlement, located on a tuff plateau, inhabited already in pre-Etruscan times, was then affected by new development between the 8th and 5th centuries BC, and had a necropolis with pit and chamber tombs. The chamber tombs, dug into the tuff, were accessible via a hallwayr (dromos) that led to the main funerary chamber, where the deceased were placed with rich funerary objects, consisting of vases, weapons and personal objects. Among the recovered finds, there are beautiful examples of Bucchero ceramics and Greek influences, which offer us a precious window on the Etruscan world and its commercial contacts with the Mediterranean.
Ultimately; to visit the archaeological sites of Sovana, Vitozza and Poggio Buco means to delve into places that tell stories of a thousand-year-old civilization. The necropolises, caves and Vie Cave testify to the deep bond between these peoples and nature, in a unique landscape that still fascinates visitors today.
These archaeological sites represent a journey into the past of the Maremma, where history and nature blend harmoniously in a suggestive and unforgettable context.
