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Lake of the Idols
43.8639° N, 11.6917° E
About
Lake of the Idols (Italian: Lago degli Idoli) is a lake located in Arezzo Province, Tuscany, Italy. It is located 1,380 metres (4,530 ft) above sea level atop Monte Falterona, about 600 metres from the source of the river Arno. Situated near an ancient road linking Etruria (including Tuscany and Umbria) with the Adriatic port cities of Romagna, it is known for one of the largest archaeological finds of the Etruscan civilization; over 600 bronze statuettes of Etruscan and Roman origin, along with thousands of other figurines from Cisalpine Gaul and Umbria, were discovered within the lake.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Lake formation
c. 4th millennium BCE
Etruscan votive activity
mid-6th to late-4th centuries BCE
Initial discovery
May 1838
Large 1838–1839 excavations
June 1838–1839
Presentation to Archaeological Institute of Rome
1842
1971 accidental recovery
1971
1972 small excavation
1972
2003 excavations
2003
Lake rehabilitation and refilling
2007
Cultural depiction
2013
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Miscellaneous Features
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Environmental and Natural Features
Transportation and Communication Structures
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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