Archaeological Sites Liguria

The coasts of Biestro, Bric Rotondo, Bric delle Coste, Bric Gazzaro, Cirioni and Pallare bric della Sciorte hide archaeological sites with ancient rock engravings dating back to Ligurian and pre-Ligurian populations

Villa Matutia or “Roman Villa della Foce” is a Roman villa brought to light by the excavations started in 1936. The excavations revealed in particular the spa complex with hot baths and saunas.

The Roman Theatre, dating from the second century,has been used mainly for performances of plays, dances and mimes. With a diameter of 21 meters and with a maximum capacity of 5,000 people, the Theatre, inside, presents a wall work with monumental stone of Turbia.

The Archaeological Zone of Luni is located in the center of the alluvial plain that goes from Sarzana to the sea. The city of Luni had the dual function of a port and a military strategic point for controlling the Ligurian and Tuscan coasts. Its geographical position made it one of the most important ports for the Apuan white marble trade. The perimeter of the walls allows a visit to the Paleo-Christian basilica of Santa Maria and the Capitolum.

The Ancient Roman City of Luni was founded in 177 BC by two thousand Roman settlers during the wars with the Apuan Ligures. Its strategic geographical position meant that the port of the city became an important commercial port for the transport of the white marble of the Apuan Islands to Rome. After the various destruction that occurred over the centuries, some parts of the ancient city still remain, such as the Capitolum, the Paleo-Christian Basilica of Santa Maria di Luni and the amphitheater dating back to the first century A.D.

Another important archaeological site in the town of Finale Ligure, where were found remains of the Neolithic age, is the Cave of Pollera. It is worth a visit.