Museo Archeologico di Lanciano

The Archaeological Museum of Lanciano occupies the restored Santo Spirito complex and presents finds from the Neolithic to the Middle Ages. Opened in 2012, it draws largely on material recovered during archaeological excavations in the ancient city from 1991 onward.

Why it matters

The museum places Lanciano's history in chronological context through objects from the city and its surrounding territory. Its complex also includes a historical archive, public library and the Paglione art exhibition.

What to notice

The exhibition moves from Neolithic material through Bronze and Iron Age assemblages, Italic grave goods and finds from Roman, Byzantine and medieval periods. Among its objects are statues dating from the 4th to 2nd centuries BC, a terracotta bust of Athena and medieval maiolica. The finds come from sites across the territory, including the Neolithic village at Marcianese, Roman villas and the San Giovanni in Venere necropolis.

Context and history

Archaeological excavations in Lanciano's ancient quarters began in 1991 under the Superintendency. The former Celestine monastery of Santo Spirito was begun in 1293, and the monastic community remained until 1654. The complex later served other uses, including candle and tile production. It was restored between 1998 and 2009 and reopened as the Polo Museale Santo Spirito, with the archaeological museum, the Paglione exhibition and spaces for cultural activities.