Tumulo di Montecalvario, Etruscan burial tomb in Castellina in Chianti, Italy.
The Montecalvario tumulus is an Etruscan tomb with four chambers arranged according to cardinal directions, forming a circular structure about 53 meters across. The construction shows the builders' skill in creating underground rooms that blend naturally into the hillside.
The tomb was built during the archaic period, roughly the 7th to 6th century BC, by a wealthy Etruscan family. Excavations in 1915 uncovered weapons, jewelry, and chariot remains that confirmed the status of those buried within.
The name refers to its hilltop location, where the Etruscans placed tombs for members of leading families. Visitors can observe how the chambers align with cardinal directions, reflecting the importance this family held in ancient society.
The site is easily reached from State Route 222 Chiantigiana near Castellina in Chianti. A controlled lighting system at the entrances makes it straightforward to explore the underground chambers.
A sandstone lion head with gaping jaws discovered in the southern chamber reveals that tomb entrances were once elaborately decorated. Such sculptures show how Etruscans used animal figures to transform burial places into striking monuments.
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