Etruscan frescoes worth €15m go on display in Rome as part of Italian acquisition strategy

An exhibition highlighting Etruscan painting has been inaugurated at the National Etruscan Museum in Rome, featuring 37 fresco panels from the 4th century BC. These artworks were purchased for €15 million from private collectors last month. Titled Tomba François, the exhibition commenced on Wednesday and showcases pieces from the François Tomb, which was uncovered in 1857 by Alessandro François in Vulci. The frescoes depict scenes from Greek mythology and Etruscan history, such as the liberation of Caelius Vibenna and Achilles' sacrifice of Trojan captives. This acquisition is part of a cultural heritage initiative spearheaded by Minister Alessandro Giuli. The exhibition will be open until December 31, after which the frescoes will join the museum's permanent collection.