Ipogeo dei Cristallini: 2,300-Year-Old Greek Tombs Open in Naples

On July 1, 2022, the Ipogeo dei Cristallini, a funerary complex dating back 2,300 years, will be accessible to the public in Naples' Rione Sanità area. The site, uncovered in 1889 by Baron Giovanni di Donato, features four tombs carved from tuff, adorned with well-preserved Hellenistic artwork and trompe-l'oeil designs. Visitor access is restricted to eight individuals at a time, with tickets priced at €25 (discounts available). The restoration was spearheaded by the Martuscelli family, in partnership with various organizations, including the Soprintendenza Archeologica and the Comune di Napoli. Prof. Arch. Ferruccio Izzo and Alberto Calderoni coordinated the musealization, with contributions from Marianna Ascolese, Luigiemanuele Amabile, and Salvatore Pesarino. Artifacts from the site are showcased at MANN, where director Paolo Giulierini announced a complete reinstallation of the ancient Naples section by 2023. The hypogeum also includes contemporary works by local artists Maurizio Elettrico and Christian Leperino, curated by Marta Wróblewska. Alessandra Martuscelli, the Ipogeo's director, highlighted the intention to create a vibrant cultural hub.