Tomba della Mula: An Etruscan Enigma

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Uncover the secrets of the Tomba della Mula, a 7th-century BC Etruscan tomb in Sesto Fiorentino, shrouded in legend and architectural wonder.

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Tomba della Mula

Explore the Tomba della Mula, a 7th-century BC Etruscan beehive tomb in Sesto Fiorentino, near Florence. Legend says a golden she-mule is buried here. It's the largest pre-Roman Italic dome tomb known in Italy.

A brief summary to Tomba della Mula

Via Mula, Sesto Fiorentino, Metropolitan City of Florence, 50019, IT

Saturday 9 am-12 pm
Sunday 9 am-12 pm

Local tips

Check the opening hours in advance, as the tomb is only open on weekends.
Combine your visit with a walk through the charming streets of Sesto Fiorentino.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the tomb can be uneven.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Florence, take the train from Firenze S.M.N. station to Sesto Fiorentino station. Trains depart every 30 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 15 minutes. From Sesto Fiorentino station, the Tomba della Mula is approximately a 25-minute walk (about 2 km). Alternatively, several bus lines connect the Sesto Fiorentino train station to the city center. From there, it is a shorter walk to Via Mula. A train ticket from Florence to Sesto Fiorentino costs between €1 and €4. Bus tickets within Sesto Fiorentino typically cost around €1.50.
Walking

From the center of Sesto Fiorentino, the Tomba della Mula is accessible by foot, following Via Gramsci towards the northwest. Continue onto Via Mula. The walk is approximately 2 kilometers and should take around 30 minutes. Note that the terrain can be uneven in some areas, so wear comfortable shoes.
Car

If driving from Florence, take the A1 motorway and exit at Sesto Fiorentino. Follow signs for Sesto Fiorentino and then for Via Mula. The Tomba della Mula is located at Via Mula. Limited free street parking is generally available. Be aware of local parking regulations. Parking in Sesto Fiorentino in designated ZCS (controlled parking zones) costs €1.50 for the first hour. A taxi from Florence to Sesto Fiorentino will cost approximately €14-€18.

Discover more about Tomba della Mula

The Tomba della Mula, or Tomb of the She-Mule, is an ancient Etruscan tomb located in Sesto Fiorentino, just outside Florence. Dating back to the 7th century BC, this remarkable site offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Etruscan civilization. The tomb's name comes from a local legend that tells of a golden she-mule buried in the surrounding fields. Known since the 15th century, the Tomba della Mula is the largest pre-Roman Italic dome tomb in Italy, featuring a diameter of approximately 9 meters. The tomb was constructed using the tholos technique, creating a false dome. Unlike the nearby Montagnola Tomb, the Tomba della Mula lacks a central pillar, with its walls curving from the ground to form the dome. Over the centuries, the tomb has undergone several changes. It was incorporated into the Villa Garbi Pecchioli (also known as Villa Mula) and used as a wine cellar, which led to modifications in its flooring and the demolition of part of its entrance passage (dromos). Despite these alterations, the Tomba della Mula remains a significant example of Etruscan architecture and a testament to the civilization's advanced building techniques. Visiting the Tomba della Mula offers a unique opportunity to explore a lesser-known but highly significant historical site. Its serene setting amidst the rolling hills of Sesto Fiorentino adds to the experience, providing a tranquil atmosphere for contemplating the mysteries of the past.