Lanuvio: Catalogue Presented for Lord Savile's Excavations and the

Lanuvio: catalogue on Lord Savile's excavations and the return of the Equestrian Group

The historic centre of Lanuvio hosted the presentation of a catalogue documenting Lord Savile Lumley's excavations at the Sanctuary of Juno Sospita. The event highlighted the partial return of fragments from the famous Equestrian Group attributed to the consul Licinius Murena, which had been held for decades in foreign museums.

The publication, prepared by the director of the local Civic Museum and written in both Italian and English with contributions from international specialists, covers the 1884–1892 excavation campaigns and accompanies the exhibition opened on 10 September 2023 at the Cantinone, Le Segrete di Palazzo Colonna.

Key points from the presentation:

• Some fragments of the equestrian group have been returned on loan from the Leeds City Museum, with the loan extended until 2029 and prospects for further arrivals.
• Discussions are also underway with the British Museum regarding additional loans.
• The initiative is part of a broader local enhancement strategy: a Distributed Museum, new displays, educational programs and digital tools such as 3D viewers for virtual visits.

The project aims to digitally and physically recompose the historical 'puzzle' of the equestrian statues, restoring essential elements of local identity to the community. The effort is supported by collateral events, publications and educational activities for schools and associations.

Visitor information:

• The exhibition and the catalogue provide context for the excavations and the discovery.
• For up-to-date opening hours and guided tours, check the official channels of Lanuvio's Civic Museum.

Collaboration with international museums and involvement of specialists position this project as a positive example of safeguarding and promoting local archaeological sites.