46 artifacts returned to the National Museum of Sibari: Etruscan, Greek

46 artifacts returned to the National Museum of Sibari

On 15 April 2026 the Carabinieri's Cultural Heritage Protection Unit officially handed 46 archaeological objects over to the State for the National Museum of Sibari, located within the archaeological area of the ancient Magna Graecia colony at Cassano all'Ionio (Cosenza).

What was returned

• Objects from Etruscan, Greek and Roman periods;
• Items recovered through seizures abroad and subsequently repatriated;
• Materials linked to illicit excavations and trafficking networks.

Background to the operation

The recovery follows an investigation named "Achei" (2017–2018) that uncovered a structured national and international illicit trade in cultural goods with connections across several European countries. The probe led to precautionary measures, numerous searches and the recovery and repatriation of artifacts seized overseas.

Relevance for the archaeological site and visitors

• The artifacts will undergo conservation, documentation and cataloguing before any public exhibition;
• Their return strengthens the National Museum of Sibari's role in preserving the Magna Graecia heritage in the Cosenza area;
• The operation highlights the importance of cooperation among law enforcement, the judiciary and the Ministry of Culture in safeguarding archaeological heritage.

For information on openings, exhibitions and guided visits to the National Museum of Sibari, consult the official channels of the Archaeological Parks and the museum. This restitution marks a concrete step toward protecting and valorising locally significant material culture.