Since 1973, the Department of Classics at Florida State University has been excavating the archaeological site of Cetamura in the Chianti region of Tuscany, Italy. Hundreds of students, both graduate and undergraduates, have received training in field archaeology as they uncovered the forgotten remains of Etruscan, Roman and medieval civilizations.

A dramatic surge of discoveries in recent years (2011-2016) came from two ancient wells—both Etruscan, but filled with thousands of items illuminating many periods of usage of the wells and helping with interpretation of many earlier finds on the site. Much research has now been done on the finds, including papers and reports by numerous students, and 300 items have been selected to be presented in an exhibition, scheduled to open at the Florence National Archaeological Museum on Friday, June 9, 2017. A catalog will be published, including entries written by faculty and students of FSU. During the period of the exhibition, students will have the opportunity to act as guides at the show and also on site at Cetamura, where excavations will be ongoing. FSU alumni are already involved in planning, promotion and preparations for the show.  

The funds for such a major show cover numerous aspects: writing, photography and printing of the exhibition catalogue; publication of an introductory booklet on Cetamura in Italian and English; conservation and restoration of the artifacts; insurance and transportation of artifacts; travel for students, alumni and faculty; street banners and posters for the show; flyers; wall texts and video kiosks; display cases; installation by a specialized firm; opening night buffet; dismantling of show; and contingencies. Please contribute today to support this important endeavor.