Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights
Date: 01/08/2024
Introduction
The Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare, located in the charming town of Caorle, Italy, is a treasure trove of maritime history that spans from the Late Bronze Age to the modern era. This guide aims to provide potential visitors with all the information they need to make the most of their visit, including insights into the museum’s historical significance, exhibitions, visitor amenities, and practical tips. Caorle, known for its picturesque canals and vibrant cultural heritage, serves as the perfect backdrop for this museum, which delves deep into the region’s rich maritime past. The museum’s extensive collection includes artifacts from various historical periods, such as the Roman era, medieval times, and the Renaissance, offering a unique glimpse into the evolution of maritime trade and technology (Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare).
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Archaeological Discoveries
- The “TerredAcque” Exhibition
- Interactive and Multimedia Displays
- Restoration and Modern Use of the Museum Building
- Visitor Information and Tips
- Conclusion
- FAQ
History and Archaeological Discoveries
Early Discoveries and Protohistoric Period
The Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare houses a rich collection of artifacts that trace the region’s history from the Late Bronze Age to the modern era. Significant archaeological discoveries in Caorle date back to the Late Bronze Age (13th century – first half of the 12th century BCE). These early finds include various tools, pottery, and remnants of ancient settlements, providing insights into the protohistoric period of the region. The museum’s first floor is dedicated to these early artifacts, showcasing how the area evolved from a small village to a significant settlement over the centuries (Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare).
Roman Era and the Portus Reatinum
One of the most notable periods represented in the museum is the Roman era. Caorle, known as Caprulae during Roman times, was an important port town. The museum exhibits numerous artifacts from this period, including amphorae, pottery, and tools. These items were discovered during various underwater archaeological campaigns, highlighting the town’s significance as a maritime hub. The Portus Reatinum, mentioned by Pliny the Elder, is a focal point of the museum’s Roman collection, illustrating the town’s role in ancient maritime trade (Wikipedia).
Medieval and Renaissance Discoveries
The museum also features artifacts from the medieval and Renaissance periods, showcasing the continuous occupation and development of Caorle. Among the notable finds are fragments of medieval ceramics and a Renaissance architectural piece discovered in June 1998. These items provide a glimpse into the daily life and architectural advancements of the time, further enriching the historical narrative of the region (Wikipedia).
The Discovery of the Roman Ship “Caorle 1”
In 1992, a significant underwater archaeological discovery was made off the coast of Caorle. Four divers from Pordenone found the wreck of an ancient Roman ship, known as “Caorle 1,” dating back to the 2nd century BCE. The shipwreck yielded a treasure trove of artifacts, including Lamboglia 2 type wine amphorae, two millstones (one complete with the upper part called “catillus”), various pottery items (jugs, cups, and bowls), lead anchor stocks, and small cannons. These discoveries provided invaluable insights into Roman maritime trade and daily life (Wikipedia).
The Napoleonic Warship “Mercurio”
Another significant discovery featured in the museum is the wreck of the Napoleonic warship “Mercurio” (Mercure), found in November 1995 between Caorle and Eraclea. The ship, which sank during the Battle of Grado on February 22, 1812, was remarkably well-preserved, with its copper hull and planking in excellent condition. Subsequent underwater excavations uncovered iron cannonballs, artillery elements, two carronades, a swivel gun, weapons, ammunition, and personal items belonging to the crew. These findings offer a detailed look into the naval warfare and maritime technology of the early 19th century (Wikipedia).
The “TerredAcque” Exhibition
The museum’s permanent exhibition, “TerredAcque,” is located on the first floor and was initially set up in 2014 by the Soprintendenza per i beni archeologici del Veneto. This exhibition showcases the most significant archaeological finds from Caorle and its surroundings, spanning from the Late Bronze Age to the modern era. The display aims to educate visitors about the historical and archaeological evolution of the area, from the protohistoric village of San Gaetano to the Roman Portus Reatinum and the modern town of Caorle (Wikipedia).
Interactive and Multimedia Displays
To enhance the visitor experience, the museum incorporates various multimedia and interactive displays. These include touch screens that allow visitors to explore digital reconstructions of the “Mercurio” and the underwater excavation site. Additionally, the museum features a virtual reality station where visitors can simulate a dive to the wreck site, providing an immersive experience of underwater archaeology. These technological enhancements make the museum’s exhibits more engaging and accessible to a diverse audience (Wikipedia).
Restoration and Modern Use of the Museum Building
The museum is housed in the former Azienda Agricola Chiggiato, a complex of buildings constructed in the early 20th century by Cavalier Ugo Trevisanato. The buildings underwent extensive restoration, costing approximately 4 million euros, and were inaugurated as the Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare on August 8, 2014. The architectural complex also hosts the Azienda di Promozione Turistica, a center for promoting local agricultural products, and the municipal police headquarters. The museum’s ground floor is dedicated to temporary exhibitions, while the courtyard features a tensile structure housing a trabaccolo, a traditional boat similar to Latin and medieval vessels (Wikipedia).
Visitor Information and Tips
Tickets and Visiting Hours
The Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare is open to visitors every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm, with the last entrance at 5 pm. The entrance fee is 6 euros for adults and 2 euros for EU citizens aged 18 to 25. Special event tickets are priced at 4 euros, and admission is free for children under 18 and teachers. Tickets can be purchased through the Musei Italiani app or the Musei Italiani portal (Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare).
Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors. The museum is fully accessible to individuals with disabilities, featuring ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. The interactive displays and touchscreen panels are designed to be user-friendly for visitors with varying levels of mobility and sensory abilities.
Guided Tours and Educational Programs
The museum offers guided tours in multiple languages, including English and German, which can be booked in advance. These tours provide detailed explanations of the exhibits and answer any questions visitors may have. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs, including workshops and lectures by experts in maritime archaeology and history (Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare).
Nearby Attractions
Visitors to the Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare can also explore other nearby attractions in Caorle, such as:
- Caorle Cathedral: A historic cathedral known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.
- Caorle Beach: A popular destination for relaxation and water activities.
- Scogliera Viva: An open-air art gallery featuring sculptures carved into the rocks along the seafront.
Conclusion
The Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare in Caorle stands as a testament to the region’s profound maritime heritage. From the protohistoric settlements of the Late Bronze Age to the advanced naval technologies of the Napoleonic era, the museum offers a comprehensive and immersive exploration of maritime history. Notable discoveries, such as the Roman shipwreck “Caorle 1” and the Napoleonic warship “Mercurio,” provide invaluable insights into ancient and early modern seafaring life. The museum’s interactive displays and multimedia features enhance the visitor experience, making history accessible and engaging for all ages. Plan your visit today and delve into the captivating maritime history of Caorle (Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare).
FAQ
Q: What are the Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare’s visiting hours? A: The museum is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm, with the last entrance at 5 pm.
Q: How much are tickets to the Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare? A: The entrance fee is 6 euros for adults and 2 euros for EU citizens aged 18 to 25. Special event tickets are 4 euros, and admission is free for children under 18 and teachers.
Q: Is there parking available at the Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare? A: Yes, visitors can park their cars at the Ecopark on Via Gallini, from where a pedestrian path leads directly to the museum entrance.
Q: Are guided tours available at the Museo Nazionale di Archeologia del Mare? A: Yes, the museum offers guided tours in English and German, which can be booked in advance.
