Cetamura del Chianti (Civitamura), Research

The Department of Classics at Florida State University first began archaeological excavation and research at Cetamura del Chianti on the property of the Badia a Coltibuono (Gaiole), in 1973. Alternating periods of excavation and laboratory research have made clear that the site has multiple phases of Etruscan settlement: Archaic (6th century BCE), Middle (late 4th century BCE) and Late (3rd-1st centuries BCE). Excavation has also revealed the presence of baths in the Early Roman Empire. In the Middle Ages, the site was referred to as Civitamura, “Walled City,” perhaps in reference to walls of the sanctuary area that were still visible. There is also documentation of a medieval castrum, or fortified village, at the site in the 12th century.

The work continues under the direction of Nancy T. de Grummond, M. Lynette Thompson Professor of Classics. The present mission of the project is the expanded study and publication of the results obtained thus far, in particular in regard to an Etruscan sanctuary of the 2nd century BCE, which arose in close association with an artisans’ working area (Zone II of the site; see Recent Results). In 2008, research was concentrated in the laboratory with relatively little work on the site itself. Students may inquire about research opportunities from Prof. de Grummond.

Two sides of an Etruscan scarab, made of carnelian and carved in intaglio with an image of a hero capturing an animal (Hercle with Cerberus?) ca. 300 BCE. Found in the artisans' zone at Cetamura.