Area Archeologica di Libarna (Serravalle Scrivia)

Buildings of historical importance

Area Archeologica di Libarna (Serravalle Scrivia)

Category: Buildings of historical importance

Libarna’s archeological area is one of the most important archeological sites in Piemonte. Discovered by chance during construction work for of the Strada Regia dei Giovi at the beginning of the 1800’s and for the Torino-Genova railway line in 1846, it brought to light various parts of ancient Roman Libarna which have allowed for the reconstruction of the imperial city’s urban layout. While visiting the archeological area, one is able to see the remains of two residential blocks, the Teatro (Theater), and the Anfiteatro (Amphitheater). In one of the domus (house), a very large mosaic was discovered with a beautiful figurative scene that depicts the myth of Lycurgus framed in a black and white geometric design. The theater, which could hold up to 3,800 spectators, is the best preserved part. In recent times, the foundations of the entrances, of the cavea, and of the painting, as well as of bits of fragments from the elevated structure, have been brought to light. The amphitheater is located at the edge of the house and, also in this case, it is possible to see the foundations of the hallways that lead to the steps, the ambulatory, and the areas under the arena. A part of the remains discovered during the excavations have been placed in the Area Museale di Libarna, among these: the fragments of ornaments and decorations which, at one time, adorned the structures, the capitals, the cornices, and the architectural friezes.

Information

Via Arquata, 63 - 15069 Serravalle Scrivia (Al)
Tel. +39.0143.633420/627 - Fax: +39.0143.686472
E-mail: biblioteca@comune.serravalle-scrivia.al.it
www.comune.serravalle-scrivia.al.it