The National Archaeological Museum of Canosa: a treasure of Apulian history

Canosa, an ancient city with a millenary history, holds within its walls a jewel of inestimable value: the National Archaeological Museum. Immersed in an area rich in archaeological evidence spanning from Prehistory to the Roman and Medieval periods, the museum is an essential stop for anyone wishing to dive into the glorious past of this land. The collection of the National Archaeological Museum of Canosa di Puglia originates from years of excavations and discoveries carried out throughout the wide Canosan territory and surrounding areas. It is presented as a true journey through the ages, offering a complete overview of the cultures that flourished in this region. The exhibition is organized into various thematic and chronological sections, allowing visitors to appreciate the richness and variety of the artifacts.

The First Traces: Prehistory and Protohistory

The initial sections of the museum guide visitors through the earliest phases of human occupation in the area, displaying flint tools, pottery, and the first evidence of human settlements dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. Particularly fascinating are the materials documenting the first contacts and exchanges with other Mediterranean cultures. A large and significant part of the collection is dedicated to the Daunian civilization, one of the most important Italic populations inhabiting northern Apulia. Here visitors can admire splendid Daunian geometric ceramics, red- and black-figure vases imported from Greece and Magna Graecia, often discovered in the rich necropolises of Canosa. These artifacts not only bear witness to the artistic skill of the Daunians but also to their intense commercial and cultural exchanges with the Greek world.

The museum also boasts an extraordinary series of funerary sets from the numerous hypogeal and chamber tombs unearthed in the Canosan area. Often found intact, these grave goods include fine ceramic vases (many locally produced, but also Attic and Apulian), weapons, gold and bronze jewelry, and personal ornaments. They offer valuable information about funerary practices, religious beliefs, and the social status of the Daunian and later elites.

Sculptures and Architecture: The Influence of Greece and Rome

The collection includes sculptural artifacts such as stone and terracotta statues revealing the influence of Greek and Roman art. Architectural elements from public and private buildings — capitals, friezes, and cornices — help reconstruct the appearance of ancient Canosa.

With the advent of Roman rule, Canosa, known as Canusium, became an important strategic and economic center. The collection includes Latin inscriptions, evidence of the Roman administrative and social organization, and a variety of Roman-era artifacts such as amphorae, oil lamps, coins, and everyday objects that illustrate life in the city during that time.

The Middle Ages: Transformations and New Cultures

The museum does not overlook the Early Medieval period, an age of profound transformation. Exhibited artifacts document Lombard and Byzantine presence in Canosa, including ceramics, fibulae, and other objects that outline the social and cultural dynamics of the time.

This is therefore a dynamic institution, constantly engaged in research, restoration, and the acquisition of new artifacts. Thanks to the work of archaeologists and restorers, the collection is continuously enriched, offering visitors an ever more complete and in-depth picture of the history of Canosa and all of Apulia.

Historical headquarters (Palazzo Sinesi): Via Kennedy, 18 - 70053 Canosa di Puglia (BT)

Future headquarters (G. Mazzini Building): Via Piave 67 - 70053 Canosa di Puglia (BT). Temporary exhibitions are often held here.

Opening hours: Hours may vary depending on the time of year and ongoing works. Generally, the museum is closed on Mondays. During the week, morning (e.g. 9:00–14:00) and/or afternoon-evening openings may be available. It is essential to check the most up-to-date schedule on the official website or contact the museum.

According to a recent search (January 2025), the seasonal hours indicated by the Regional Directorate of Museums of Apulia are:

• From April 1 to September 30: Wednesday to Sunday 10:00 – 18:30.

• From October 1 to March 31: Wednesday to Sunday 9:00 – 17:30.

• Last admission usually one hour before closing.

Tickets:

• Combined ticket (National Archaeological Museum of Canosa + Archaeological Park of Canne della Battaglia): Full € 8.00 – Reduced € 4.00. This option is highly recommended for a complete view of the archaeological heritage of the area.

• Single tickets for the museum or specific promotions may also be available.

• Free admission on the first Sunday of each month.

• Discounts and free entry apply to certain categories (e.g. minors under 18, teachers, students, etc.).

Contacts:

 • Phone: +39 0883 664716

 • Email: [email protected]

Official website: https://museipuglia.cultura.gov.it/musei/museo-nazionale-archeologico-di-canosa/

Cover photo credits: Regional Directorate of Museums of Apulia