Mostra permanente Mare Antico

Mare Antico, Castellabate's permanent exhibition of maritime archaeology, brings together anchors recovered from the waters between San Marco and Punta Tresino, amphorae used to transport goods, and a Roman funerary inscription from the San Marco necropolis. Together, the objects illuminate trade, navigation and burial along this stretch of the Tyrrhenian coast.

Why it matters

The exhibition was created through a collaboration between the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, the municipality of Castellabate and the archaeological superintendence. Its collection focuses on objects found in the municipality's waters and archaeological sites. Anchors from the sea and funerary evidence from the land offer complementary views of the coast's ancient communities and maritime connections.

What to notice

The collection includes anchors recovered in 1977 between San Marco and Punta Tresino. Raised marks on the metal record details such as weight, vessel type and ownership. A three-compartment wooden case holds about fifty amphorae of different shapes and sizes, containers used to transport wheat, oil and wine.

From the San Marco necropolis comes a funerary inscription naming Antonia Prisca and linking her family with naval command at Capo Miseno. The municipal account also describes explanatory panels on ancient boat types and navigation instruments, helping place the objects within the wider history of Tyrrhenian seafaring.

Context and history

The exhibition draws on finds recovered from both the sea and the surrounding archaeological landscape. Its anchors document maritime activity off the coast, while amphorae preserve evidence of goods carried across the ancient sea. The San Marco necropolis inscription connects local burial practices with families associated with the imperial fleet at Capo Miseno. The municipal account notes that additional finds are held at the National Archaeological Museum of Paestum.