The Civic Archaeological Museum “Antonio De Nino”: A Journey Through the History of Abruzzo

Located in the heart of Abruzzo, the Civic Archaeological Museum “Antonio De Nino” is a true treasure chest of history and culture, bearing witness to the ancient civilizations that once inhabited this fascinating region. Dedicated to the renowned archaeologist and scholar from Sulmona, Antonio De Nino (1838–1907)—who devoted much of his life to the discovery and enhancement of Abruzzo’s archaeological heritage—the museum today serves as a key reference point for understanding the deepest roots of this territory.

The museum’s history is closely linked to the intense research and excavation activities carried out in the area, particularly in the Peligna Valley and neighboring territories. The first important discoveries, often made by De Nino himself, formed the nucleus of the initial collection, which over time has grown thanks to new archaeological campaigns and donations. Today, the museum’s collection spans a vast chronological range—from Prehistory to the Early Middle Ages—offering a comprehensive overview of the various phases of settlement and the cultures that followed one another in the region.

A Rich and Educational Exhibition Path

The exhibition itinerary is organized into ten rooms spread over two floors. Among the various sections, objects from diverse cultural contexts are of particular interest: Gallic torques, Canosan amphorae, Etruscan bronze mirrors and flasks. In a separate display case, surmounted by a funerary inscription in the Pelignian dialect, visitors can admire the funerary set of a priestess of Ceres.

The layout is designed to guide visitors through a chronological and thematic journey, including:

• Prehistoric and Protohistoric Testimonies: stone tools, ceramics, and everyday objects that recount the earliest forms of human settlement in Abruzzo, illustrating life during the Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Copper Ages. Particularly noteworthy are finds linked to the Apennine culture.
• The Civilization of the Peligni and Italic Peoples: rich evidence of the Italic peoples—especially the Peligni, who inhabited the Peligna Valley. Exhibits include funerary goods, weapons, ceramics, and bronze artifacts that illustrate their social organization, ritual practices, and artistic expressions. Of great importance are the inscriptions in the Oscan-Umbrian language, which shed light on the ancient Italic languages and cultures.
• The Roman Era: a large section is dedicated to the Romanization of the territory, with finds from key archaeological sites such as Corfinium (the ancient capital of the Peligni and center of the Social War), Sulmo (modern Sulmona, birthplace of Ovid), and Superaequum. Visitors can admire mosaics, sculptures, epigraphic inscriptions, terra sigillata ceramics, glassware, and coins, testifying to the profound Roman influence and the integration of local communities into the Empire.
• Traces of the Early Middle Ages: concluding this journey are numerous early medieval artifacts that illustrate the transformations of the territory after the fall of the Roman Empire and the arrival of new populations, such as the Lombards.

A Living Museum: Activities and Projects

The Civic Archaeological Museum “Antonio De Nino” is not only a place of conservation but also a vibrant center for research, education, and cultural promotion. Temporary exhibitions, educational workshops for schools, conferences, and special events are regularly organized to engage a broad audience and enhance local archaeological heritage. Collaboration with universities and research institutions contributes to the continuous enrichment of knowledge and the dissemination of new study results.

 Civic Archaeological Museum “Antonio De Nino” – Corfinio

• Address: Located in the historic medieval village of Corfinio, inside a noble palace of the Trippitelli family (17th century).
  (Piazza Corfinio 2, 67030 Corfinio)

Contacts:

• Municipality of Corfinio: 0864-728100
• For bookings and guided tours (and for Saturday and/or Sunday afternoon openings), contact:
  • 388 130 5982
  • 328 357 6413

Hours:

• Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Saturday and/or Sunday: afternoon openings by reservation only.
• Note: The museum is managed by the Pro Loco of Corfinio APS.

Ticket Prices:

• Full price: €5.00
• Reduced (children, students, senior cardholders): €3.00
• Groups (minimum 20 people): €4.00
• Ticket includes access to the Lapidarium.
• For guided tours, booking is required; fees are arranged directly with the guides.

Useful Links:

• Official website (Pro Loco di Corfinio): www.museocorfinio.it
• Info and hours page: https://www.museocorfinio.it/phone/info-e-orari.html
• Ministry of Culture: https://cultura.gov.it/luogo/museo-civico-archeologico-antonio-de-nino

Cover photo credits: Pietro