Cripta e museo di Sant'Anastasio, Archaeological museum in historic center, Asti, Italy
The Crypt and Museum of Sant'Anastasio displays the remains of a former Benedictine church with a three-aisle nave, cross vaults, and columns from different periods. The building houses stone elements and capitals that span from the 7th to 16th century, revealing multiple construction phases over time.
The Benedictine nunnery of Sant'Anastasio likely began during the Lombard period and was documented from 1008 until its closure in 1802. Archaeological digs show that people lived and built at this location continuously from Roman times onward.
This was a religious center for Benedictine nuns for centuries, and the collection reveals objects from different periods that reflect this spiritual role. The stone capitals and architectural pieces show how the church changed and developed over time through the eyes of those who built and used it.
Access is arranged through the nearby Palazzo Mazzetti, where visitors can get information and tickets. The visit works best outside the hottest months, since the underground location means the space stays cool and dimly lit.
Excavations uncovered Roman-era flooring and burials from the 7th to 10th century, showing this site was occupied for thousands of years. These layered findings suggest the museum sits atop a much older story of continuous human presence.
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