Sacred Landscapes in Central Italy

Veneration of the supernatural was, in ancient times, interwoven into the fabric of the surrounding landscape. Caves, rivers, lakes, mountains, and water springs all formed conduits for a relationship between divinity and nature, and sanctuaries were established as dedicated sites of worship. Taking Central Italy as its main focus, this volume unravels layers of history and archaeology in order to shed light on the religious practices, sacred sites, and profound connections that have long existed between landscapes and religious places in this region. Through a synthesis of archaeological evidence and scholarly analysis, the chapters gathered here unveil the significance of temples, sanctuaries, ex-votos, religious productions, and ritual spaces, and provide a comprehensive understanding of how Etruscan and Roman societies engaged with their sacred surroundings. The result is an important reassessment of the religious dimensions that helped to shape the antique landscape of Central Italy.