Archeological Civic Museum: Echoes of Acqui Terme's Past

The Archeological Civic Museum, nestled within the Castello dei Paleologi in Acqui Terme, offers a captivating journey through time, revealing the layers of history that have shaped this region of Piedmont. The museum's collection spans from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages, providing a comprehensive overview of the area's cultural evolution. The museum was established in 1967 and officially opened in 1970, the result of dedicated efforts by scholars and enthusiasts. The current exhibition, set up in 2001, is divided into three main sections: prehistory, the Roman period, and the Middle Ages, displayed across seven rooms. The Paleologi Castle, which houses the museum, has roots dating back to the Late-Roman period and was rebuilt in the Middle Ages after being destroyed by the Huns. It was later reconstructed in the 15th century by the Sforza family, who transformed it into a military fortress. In the prehistoric section, visitors can examine flint tools from the Paleolithic and Mesolithic eras, as well as polished green stone axes from the Neolithic period. The Bronze and Iron Ages are represented by ceramic artifacts and metal tools, offering insights into the culture of the Liguri Statielli, the area's indigenous population. The Roman section highlights the significance of Aquae Statiellae, an important Roman city along the Via Aemilia Scauri. Exhibits include gravestone decorations, architectural elements, sculptures, mosaics, and a reconstruction of the grand fountain of the "Bollente," made from white marble blocks discovered in the late 19th century. The medieval section features early Christian inscriptions, Lombard-era gravestone decorations, and ceramics from the medieval and Renaissance periods. The museum not only displays artifacts but also tells the story of Acqui Terme's development from its ancient origins to the threshold of the modern era.