Dug into the tuff of the Maddalena hill, about one kilometre north-east of the town centre, they tell the story of Venosa between the 4th and 6th centuries and are one of the most important records of the Jewish presence in southern Italy: the Italian Ministry of Culture describes them as one of the largest and most significant Jewish burial complexes in the western Mediterranean.
Three cemeteries, one above the other
The hill holds three burial grounds dug at different levels: at the bottom the catacombs of Santa Rufina, in the middle the Jewish catacombs, at the top the smaller Christian catacombs.
The tomb inscriptions are in Greek, Latin and Hebrew, often with the menorah and other symbols, and describe a prosperous, well-integrated community with its own offices and roles.
Until they reopen, the finds and the story of late antique Venosa can be discovered at the National Archaeological Museum.
Contacts
Opening hours
Closed to the public for restoration and safety works, with no reopening date announced. Before planning a visit, call +39 0972 36095.