The Terzigno Archaeological Museum (MATT) has inaugurated a new exhibition area dedicated to the “Tesoro di Terzigno – gold and silver from Villa 2”. This new section hosts for the first time in permanent exhibition precious gold and silver artefacts discovered at Villa 2 in Cava Ranieri.
The Treasury Exhibition
The exhibits include a variety of silver pieces, including a situla, a cup, a mirror, a phalera, a fibula, and 21 coins. Among the gold artifacts are three necklaces, including one adorned with emeralds. Some of these works are currently part of international exhibitions: in Australia at the National Museum in Canberra and in Italy at the Museo della Rocca Roveresca in Senigallia.
Historical discoveries
During the 1984 excavations in the Triclinium of Villa 2, where the inhabitants sought refuge during the eruption of the volcano in 79 AD, the skeletons of five people were found. Among them, a young woman was wearing gold jewelry, including snake-shaped bracelets and elaborate necklaces. Alongside these, toiletry items and pieces of silverware with detailed decorations were discovered.
Institutional participation
The inauguration was attended by several authorities, including the mayor of Terzigno and representatives of local and archaeological bodies. The director of the archaeological park of Pompeii underlined the importance of the Terzigno Museum as an integral part of the larger project of the Great Pompeii, highlighting the historical interconnection of the Vesuvian area.
Article published on 13 February 2025 - 17:00
The inauguration of the Archaeological Museum of Terzigno seems to be an important event for local history. However, I do not understand why there is no more detailed information about the exhibits, it would be interesting to know more about the gold and silver pieces.