Tempio Etrusco-Romano: Echoes of Ancient Fiesole

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Discover the ruins of Fiesole's Etruscan-Roman temple, a window into the religious practices of ancient civilizations.

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Tempio Etrusco-Romano

Explore the evocative ruins of the Tempio Etrusco-Romano in Fiesole, a testament to the town's rich history. Originally built by the Etruscans in the 4th century BCE and later rebuilt by the Romans, the temple offers a glimpse into the religious practices of these ancient civilizations.

A brief summary to Tempio Etrusco-Romano

Via Giovanni Duprè, 14, Fiesole, Metropolitan City of Florence, 50014, IT
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Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as the archaeological site involves walking on uneven terrain.
Visit the adjacent Archaeological Museum to see artifacts discovered at the temple site.
Bring water, especially during the warmer months, as the site offers limited shade.
Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary depending on the season.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Necropoli Longobarda

Necropoli Longobarda: Echoes of Lombard Fiesole

Roman Theatre

Roman Theatre of Fiesole: A Journey Back in Time

Terme

Terme di Fiesole: Ancient Roman Baths

Getting There

Walking

From Piazza Mino in Fiesole, walk along Via Portigiani/Via Duprè, located behind the Duomo. The entrance to the Archaeological Area, where the temple is located, is at the crossroads. The walk is short but involves a slight uphill climb.
Public Transport

Take ATAF bus #7 from Florence to Fiesole, getting off at the last stop, Piazza Mino. From there, follow the walking directions to Via Portigiani/Via Duprè and the Archaeological Area. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50.
Car

From Florence, follow the road signs to Fiesole. Once in Fiesole, parking is available in designated areas, but it can be limited. From the parking areas, walk to Piazza Mino and then follow the walking directions to the temple. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €1-2 per hour.

Discover more about Tempio Etrusco-Romano

The Tempio Etrusco-Romano in Fiesole stands as a compelling reminder of the town's layered past, bearing witness to both Etruscan and Roman influence. Constructed around the late 4th century BCE by the Etruscans, the temple was dedicated to the goddess Minerva, as evidenced by the votive offerings discovered within its grounds. Destroyed by fire in the 1st century BCE, the temple was subsequently rebuilt by the Romans, who continued its use as a sacred site. The temple's architecture reflects both Etruscan and Roman styles, with its foundations and layout indicative of Etruscan design principles, while Roman construction techniques are evident in the later additions. Today, visitors can explore the temple's remaining structures, including the foundations, parts of the podium, and remnants of the cella, or inner chamber. The archaeological area also includes a Roman theater and thermal baths, providing a broader context for understanding life in ancient Fiesole. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding Tuscan landscape, enhancing the visitor experience.