Museo civico archeologico Ugo Granafei, Museum in Mesagne, Italy
The Museo civico archeologico Ugo Granafei is an archaeological museum in Mesagne, Italy, housed within the town's castle and containing objects from pre-Roman and Roman times. The collection includes pottery, metal objects, coins, and a reconstructed tomb monument spanning roughly 600 BC to 200 AD, with six main exhibition rooms displaying finds from local excavations.
The Mesagne region was an ancient center of Messapian culture before Roman control, as evidenced by tomb finds dating from the 7th century BC. Systematic excavations beginning in the 1970s uncovered old cemeteries and led to the creation of this collection, which opened to the public in 1999.
The name Mesagne likely comes from its position between two larger settlements, reflecting its importance in the ancient world. The artifacts on display show how the Messapian people lived and traded with Greek merchants, visible in the imported objects throughout the collection.
The museum is located within the castle and follows its opening hours, which vary by season. Visitors should check exact opening times, especially during winter months or special events, and may arrange an appointment by contacting the secretariat.
The museum houses a distinctive tomb monument discovered in 1988 with a semi-chamber shape and stone walls that shows visitors how the Messapians buried their dead. This display piece offers direct insight into ancient burial practices and the craftsmanship of this culture.
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