Discover Perugia, the incredible city underground the cathedral

Perugia; a historical city for its excellence since the Etruscan era, has revealed a remarkable wonder hidden underground. 

During the renovation of the Canonical complex of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, located in the central square called ‘IV Novembre’, also a lower level than that of the current cloister was investigated. The confirmation of the uninterrupted usage of this area of the city of Perugia, starting from the Etruscan age, was thus found. In fact, large tracts of Etruscan masonry were brought to light (6th – 5th century BC) which had the dual function of containing the ancient city acropolis, in addition to being one of the main elements of a religious building. The ashlars in Travertine that constitute these walls have a square appearance and are placed one on top of the other without using any mortar. 

Starting from the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, it is possible to admire the succession of the Etruscan, Roman and medieval period between tunnels, walls and ancient streets. Numerous fragments of architectural decorations have also emerged, such as capitals, marble frames referable to the Roman age, which for Perugia bean with the designation consul of a Perugian in the 2nd century BC. and was fulfilled with the assignment of the status of municipality to the city. 

The excavations have also revealed other important findings, such as the remains of an ancient furnace used in the construction of the Cathedral of the late medieval period. 

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