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The Museum of Monteleone Sabino: life in ancient Roman told through a gladiator and an emperor
The Archaeological Museum of Monteleone Sabino is the ideal starting point for understanding the history of the Sabina region. It tells the story of the ancient town of Trebula Mutuesca through objects unearthed from its Roman amphitheatre and the surrounding territory. It is not a vast museum, but it goes into great detail: every artefact has a precise story to tell, from the viewpoint of gladiators, emperors and so on.
A lion and a gladiator
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a funerary lion in stone that once stood guard over a tomb. A little further on, two stone reliefs draw the eye. They depict a combat and victorious gladiators, offering direct testimony to the passion for games in this part of the ancient world.
The signature of Emperor Trajan
The highlight can be found in the second room, dedicated to the amphitheatre. At its centre stands a large monumental marble inscription: the dedication of Emperor Trajan, who commissioned the amphitheatre’s construction. Here we have nothing less than the original signature of an emperor. Alongside it are everyday objects and fragments of statues discovered during excavations.
From Sabine goddesses to St Victoria
The itinerary is not confined to the imperial age. Showcases hold small terracotta votive offerings, left centuries before the Romans in shrines dedicated to local deities. The museum closes with the transition to the Middle Ages, when the legacy of Rome gives way to the cult of Santa Vittoria, the patron saint of the village.
Visitors are advised to check opening hours, which are subject to change, by contacting the Municipality of Monteleone Sabino or the local museum network.
