Vulci archaeologists discover monumental Etruscan Stone Chamber Tomb

Archaeologists conducting the 2026 excavation campaign at the Polledrara necropolis in the ancient territory of Vulci have discovered a monumental funerary context from the Orientalizing period. Known as the ‘Tomba della Camera di pietra’ (Stone Chamber Tomb), the find provides significant insight into the Vulcean aristocracy of the late 7th century BCE, a period marked by prosperity and Mediterranean trade.

The discovery was made as part of the international ‘Ritorno a Vulci’ project, a collaboration involving the École française de Rome, Sapienza Università di Roma, and the British Museum. The research identified the circular enclosure of the Gsell Tumulus, which was originally discovered in 1889 but never fully excavated.

Despite historical looting and clandestine activities during the 20th century, the tomb’s internal architectural structures, including nenfro stone containment walls, remain remarkably well-preserved. Excavations revealed three funerary chambers containing intact artifacts, including banquet services, Greek ceramics, gold, weapons, and rare female footwear, many of which were protected by the collapse of the original structures.