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The Necropolis of Grotta Porcina in Vetralla: the Funerary Theatre of the Etruscan Princes
The Necropolis of Grotta Porcina is located along the ancient Via Clodia, in the territory of Vetralla, among woods and cultivated fields overlooking the Tolfa Mountains. The name derives from the medieval use of the main tumulus as a shelter for pigs. But in the 6th century BC this was the burial ground of a powerful Etruscan aristocratic family, who commissioned a funerary monument quite unmatched in the rock-cut architecture of southern Etruria.
The Big Wheel and the Theatrical Altar
The main tumulus — locally known as the "Grande Ruota" or "Castelluzzo" — measures 28 metres in diameter and 3.5 metres in height. It was entirely carved from tufa. Inside, two communicating chambers traverse the entire diameter; a third, deeper chamber is connected by ventilation shafts. On the summit, a terrace was intended for funerary rites. Downhill stands a unique complex: a cylindrical altar at the centre of a square area with tiers of seating on three sides, a kind of rock-cut theatre where spectators attended ceremonies in honour of the deceased. On the drum of the altar, traces of a frieze with animals in an orientalising style can still be made out.
How to Get There
From km 26.6 of the SS Aurelia Bis road, follow the signs for Dogane and Necropoli Etrusca. The final stretch is unpaved. Entrance is free, but trekking shoes are required.
