Area archeologica etrusco-sannitica di Fratte

The Archaeological Area of Fratte preserves the remains of an Etruscan-Samnite settlement and necropolis on the northern edge of Salerno.

Why it matters

Fratte documents a pre-Roman chapter of Salerno's history, before the foundation of the Roman colony of Salernum. Its settlement and funerary remains reveal the cultural and economic importance of the Irno valley in antiquity.

What to notice

Excavations have revealed a production area with a cistern and pottery kiln, as well as an acropolis and chamber tombs. Finds include Etruscan inscriptions and bucchero pottery, while the fourth-century BC Samnite tombs preserve evidence of burial customs.

Context and history

The settlement was occupied from at least the sixth century BC, with earlier traces of human presence. An Etruscan phase was followed by Samnite occupation in the fourth century BC. The site declined and was largely abandoned in the third century BC, before parts of the area were reused after the Roman foundation of Salernum.