Visiting The Past

I was eager to visit and explore the Etruscan Necropolis of Monterozzi at Tarquinia, in Northern Lazio, after reading about the painted burial chambers that are preserved here. I caught the local bus from Tarquinia train station into the centre, and then it was not too far to walk to the necropolis on the outskirts of town.

The most impressive frescoes for me were found in the Tomb of the Leopards. The main strip of mural depicts a lavish banqueting scene in honour of the dead, including several couples tended by two young boys. The men have darker skin while the women are lighter. The side walls of the burial chamber are painted with people bringing dishes, playing instruments and dancing among pretty foliage. Although the drawing is quite simple, it is amazing to see such strong colours bursting out of a fresco that dates back to around 450 BC. [...]

Amalfi where you can see how the buildings were built right into and around the mountains. At the top of the heap is the Church of San Biagio (or Saint Blaise). The zigzag staircase leads to the entrance of this church, which was founded in 1082. It has one nave and a lovely 18th-century ceramic tile floor, but unfortunately it is rarely open. Good to note before you climb several hundred steps to get there! I’ve only been inside one time years ago for a special mass for San Biagio, which is celebrated on February 3rd.