The Museo Civico of Santa Marinella is located in the Santa Severa Castle, which is located in the suburb named after this same castle. The official name of the museums is Museo del Mare e della Navigazione Antica (“Museum of the Sea and of Ancient Maritime Travel”).
Museo Civico Santa Marinella
Useful information
Summer opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00 to 12.00 and from 17.00 to 20.00 (and in July and August also from 21.00 to 24.00). Winter opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 09.30 to 12.30 and from 15.30 to 18.00.
History and description
The museum is divided into a didactic and an exhibition area.
The premises where the collection is exhibited are called “La Polveriera” (the Powder Room), “Il Caminetto” (the Fireplace) and “La Casa dei Somari” (the House of the Donkeys).
What to see
The didactic section features models of the most important archaeological sites in the territory of Santa Marinella. These sites are the Etruscan sanctuary, the town of Pyrgi (today’s Santa Severa) and the Castello di Santa Severa.
The maritime section is highlighted through models of Etruscan, Roman and Greek merchant and warships. There is also a collection of ancient shipwrights’ tools.
The collection includes numerous jars from all over the Mediterranean. These were used to transport wine, oil and spices, etc. Other interesting objects include a bronze lamp from Roman times and fishing materials.
Organized tours
The museum also organises guided tours to the “Roman and Eruscan Pyrgi”. These include a visit to the Museo Antiquarium Pyrgense, the ancient city walls, the Cantina della Legnaia and the Castello di Santa Severa.