Mausoleum of the Conocchia

The Mausoleum of the Conocchia is a Roman burial structure with eleven niches designed to hold funeral urns and features a cubic base, a curved intermediate section, and a domed crown. The two-tiered design demonstrates the craftsmanship typical of Roman funerary architecture.

The monument dates from the Roman period and was later extensively restored during the reign of Ferdinand IV of Bourbon. Architect Carlo Vanvitelli modified portions of the original structure while maintaining its Roman character.

Local tradition connects this burial chamber to Flavia Domitilla, niece of Emperor Vespasian, who was persecuted for her Christian beliefs and is believed to rest here. This connection has given the site spiritual importance for visitors over many centuries.

The monument stands along the ancient Via Appia, one of Rome's major ancient roads, making it relatively straightforward to locate. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as the surroundings are rural and access involves walking across open land.

The structure takes its name from its resemblance to a conocchia, a traditional spinning tool used in textile work. This unusual naming choice shows how Roman burial monuments became part of the everyday language and observations of local people.