Tomb of the Lionesses, Etruscan tomb with painted frescoes in Monterozzi Necropolis, Tarquinia, Italy
The Tomb of the Lionesses is an Etruscan burial chamber in the Monterozzi Necropolis with painted walls showing musicians, dancers, and reclining couples during feasts. The chamber has a geometric ceiling pattern and is supported by columns, demonstrating the builders' skill and understanding of space.
The tomb dates to the 6th century BC and was discovered in 1874, providing insight into Etruscan civilization before Roman rule. Its paintings and structure reveal the artistic achievements of a society that was later absorbed by Rome.
The tomb shows scenes of everyday Etruscan life through images of musicians and dancers on the walls, reflecting how important feasts and community were to them. These depictions reveal what wealthy families valued and how they spent their time together.
The tomb is located within the Monterozzi Necropolis near Tarquinia, where multiple ancient chambers can be explored together. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven ground, as archaeological sites often have rough terrain.
The paintings were created using mineral pigments applied to wet plaster, a technique that preserved the colors for over 2.500 years and shows advanced Etruscan skill. Applying paint to damp surfaces allowed the pigments to sink deep into the plaster, making them resistant to fading and damage.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
