MAFRA - Museo Archeologico di Francavilla di Sicilia (Palazzo Cagnone)

The Archaeological Museum of Francavilla di Sicilia, known as M.A.FRA., is located in the historic Palazzo Cagnone in the medieval quarter of the city. The palace dates back to the 16th century and was named after the noble Cagnone family who inhabited it in the 18th century. The name "Cagnone" comes from the family that lived in the building in the 18th century. The palace still preserves the original furnishings and 18th century Caltagirone ceramic tiles. Inside, there is a small citrus garden, and the former wine cellar was integrated into the large conference hall after restoration work in 2006. Today, the palace also houses the municipal library and serves as a cultural center.

Collections and exhibitions:

Prehistoric Period: The first exhibition hall is dedicated to a settlement area of the Siculi people dating back to the end of the Bronze Age. Here, artifacts are presented that document the lives of early inhabitants.

Greek City: The second hall is dedicated to the Greek city founded by the Chalcidians of Naxos in the 7th century BC. The exhibits include everyday objects from the 6th to 3rd centuries BC, including architectural fragments, loom weights, lamps, ceramics, and coins that illustrate the daily life of the ancient Greeks.

Sanctuary of Demeter and Persephone: The third hall presents finds from the pre-sanctuary of the goddess Demeter and her daughter Persephone, one of the most important sanctuaries in Greek Sicily. Exhibits include terracotta protomes and the characteristic relief pinakes, similar to those found in the sanctuary of Persephone in Locri Epizefiri. Additionally, finds from the 5th century BC necropolis are shown, including fragments of Attic black-figure pottery.

Virtual Experience: The tour ends in an immersive space that allows visitors to take a virtual journey back in time to ancient Francavilla. This multimedia installation offers an interactive insight into the history of the city.

Significance of the museum:

M.A.FRA. offers a comprehensive look into the history and culture of Francavilla di Sicilia and its surroundings. By presenting artifacts from various periods, it allows visitors to trace the region's development from prehistoric times through the Greek era to the Roman period. The combination of physical exhibits and modern multimedia installations makes the museum an important cultural center in the region.

Contact details

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday	10:00 - 14:00
Monday	--
Tuesday	10:00 - 18:00
Wednesday	10:00 - 18:00
Thursday	10:00 - 18:00
Friday	10:00 - 18:00
Saturday	10:00 - 18:00

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