Civic Museum of Alatri: Between Ancient History and Local Traditions

Located in the heart of Alatri’s historic center, in the province of Frosinone, the Civic Museum of Alatri offers a fascinating synthesis of the area’s historical, archaeological, and ethnographic heritage. Housed inside the majestic Palazzo Gottifredo, a splendid medieval building of great architectural value, the museum takes visitors on an engaging journey through time — from prehistory to the Roman era, all the way to the folk traditions of Ciociaria.

Palazzo Gottifredo: A Historic Setting of Exceptional Beauty

Dating back to the 13th century, Palazzo Gottifredo was originally the residence of Cardinal Gottifredo Raynaldi. The structure itself is a masterpiece, combining architectural elements from different periods to create a truly evocative setting for the exhibits. The beautifully restored rooms of the palace house the various sections of the museum, immersing visitors in history within a space of remarkable historical and artistic significance.

The Collections: A Journey through the Past and Local Traditions

The Civic Museum of Alatri is divided into several sections, each dedicated to a specific aspect of the town’s history and culture:

• Archaeological Section: this area presents artifacts that tell the story of Aletrium (ancient Alatri) from the pre-Roman to the Roman period. Highlights include materials from the “Etrusco-Italic Temple” at La Stazza, such as figurative antefixes and votive objects, evidence of an enduring religious tradition. Also on display is the inscription of Lucius Betilienus Varo, a key epigraphic document for understanding Roman urban planning and public works in the city.
• Epigraphic Section: this section features a rich collection of inscriptions, offering valuable documentary evidence of the public and private life of ancient Alatri, particularly during the Roman era.
• Ethnographic Section (Gambardella Collection): devoted to folk traditions and rural life, this section exhibits a vast collection of tools, utensils, and equipment related to agriculture and local crafts, allowing visitors to appreciate the daily work and customs of past generations.
• “Travelers of Discovery” Section: a multimedia journey that presents the history of Alatri through the eyes of scholars and travelers from the 18th and 19th centuries, who contributed to rediscovering the town’s megalithic walls and archaeological heritage.

Visitor Information

• Address: Corso Cavour, 5 – 03011 Alatri (FR)
• Contacts:
  • Tel: +39 0775 448378 / 448452
  • Email: [email protected]
• Opening Hours:
  • Tuesday–Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. / 3:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. / 2:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  • Monday: Closed
    (It is strongly recommended to check updated times on the official website of the Municipality of Alatri or the local museum network before visiting.)
• Tickets:
  • Standard admission: approx. €3.00
  • Combined ticket for the Alatri Museum System (which may include other attractions such as the Christ in the Labyrinth): approx. €5.00
  • Reductions available for groups and visitors under 18; free admission for children and companions of visitors with disabilities.

The Civic Museum of Alatri is a must-visit destination for those eager to explore the ancient roots and living traditions of this remarkable town — a place where history, archaeology, and culture come together to tell the enduring story of Ciociaria.

Cover photo credits: Pietro Scerrato, Google Maps