Museo Archeologico Nazionale "La Civitella"
About This Museum
Perched on a hill in the ancient city of Chieti, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale 'La Civitella' feels less like a traditional museum and more like a journey through time. Its most breathtaking feature is the Roman amphitheater itself, whose ancient stone steps are seamlessly integrated into the modern structure. Inside, you'll trace the history of the Marrucini people and their eventual absorption into the Roman Empire through artifacts pulled directly from this soil. The entire experience masterfully blurs the line between an archaeological site and a curated exhibition.
Collection Highlights
The story unfolds through poignant everyday objects—a delicate glass perfume bottle, worn terracotta votive statues, and intricate jewelry that once adorned local women. A highlight is the extensive display of inscriptions and architectural fragments that vividly reconstruct the social and political life of Roman Chieti.
Visitor Information
It's located at Via Giuseppe Salvatore Pianell, 1, just a short walk from Chieti's main cathedral. Check their website for seasonal opening hours as they can vary; it's always wise to confirm before you make the trip up the hill.
Architecture & Building
A striking example of contemporary Italian museum design, where sharp, modern lines and vast glass walls are built directly around and over the excavated ruins of a 1st-century Roman amphitheater.
