Museo Archeologico: Unveiling Etruscan History
Explore Etruscan civilization at Chianciano Terme's Museo Archeologico, home to the world's largest collection of canopic jars.
The Museo Archeologico delle Acque in Chianciano Terme, situated in a former 19th-century granary, showcases a rich collection of archaeological finds from the local area, with a focus on the Etruscan civilization. The museum is renowned for holding the world's most significant collection of Etruscan canopic jars, which are human-shaped cinerary urns used to store the ashes of prominent individuals. The museum's exhibits are spread across four floors, organized into thematic sections that illustrate various aspects of Etruscan life and death. Visitors can explore reconstructions of burial sites and displays of grave goods, including pottery, ceramics, and bronze artifacts dating back to the 6th and 5th centuries BC, a period of significant development for the city. The collection of canopic jars from the Tolle necropolis is particularly noteworthy. Later Hellenistic-era artifacts include alabaster cinerary urns and reconstructed wine-making areas from a farm near Poggio Bacherinae. A monumental terracotta pediment from a sacred building in the Astrone valley, dedicated to a health deity, is also on display. The museum also highlights the use of Chianciano's springs during Roman times, when luxurious villas and thermal bath buildings were constructed. The museum is accessible to visitors with disabilities, featuring a tactile pathway for the visually impaired.
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid crowds, as weekends tend to be busier.
- Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and educational programs.
- Take advantage of the tactile pathway if you are visually impaired for a unique experience.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Chianciano Terme, known for its thermal baths.
A brief summary to Museo Archeologico
- Viale Dante, Chianciano Terme, Province of Siena, 53042, IT
- +39057830471
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-1 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-1 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-1 pm
- Thursday 10 am-1 pm
- Friday 10 am-1 pm
- Saturday 10 am-1 pm
- Sunday 10 am-1 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Chianciano Terme, the Museo Archeologico is easily accessible on foot. From Piazza Italia, walk along Viale Dante towards the historic center. The museum is located at Viale Dante, 80, just before you enter the old town. The walk is relatively short and straightforward.
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Public Transport
Chianciano Terme is serviced by local buses. From the Chiusi-Chianciano Terme train station, take a bus towards Chianciano Terme. Get off at a stop near Piazza Italia and walk along Viale Dante to the museum. A single bus ticket costs around €1-€2.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Chianciano Terme. A taxi ride from the Chiusi-Chianciano Terme train station to the Museo Archeologico costs approximately €26-€32 and takes about 18 minutes. From within Chianciano Terme, a short taxi ride will likely cost around €10-€15, with a starting price of 4.3 EUR and 1.1 EUR per kilometer.
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Parking
If driving, there is parking available near the Museo Archeologico. A convenient option is Parcheggio Borgo Nuovo, located just after Porta Rivellini, offering access to the old town. There is also a parking lot on Via del Prato, which is a mixed parking area near the center of Chianciano Terme. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around €1-€2 per hour.
