What are the Griffins of Ascoli Satriano and where can I see them?

The Griffins of Ascoli Satriano are magnificent polychrome marble sculptures dating back to 325-300 B.C. that originally adorned a Daunian tomb. These Trapezophoros beam supports feature a pair of griffins mauling a fawn and are displayed as part of the archaeological heritage of this pre-Roman settlement located southwest of Foggia in southern Italy.

What is the historical significance of Ascoli Satriano?

Ascoli Satriano was an important pre-Roman Daunian center that later became famous as the site where Pyrrhus achieved his proverbially ephemeral victory. The town offers several testimonies from the Daunian period, making it a significant archaeological destination for understanding ancient southern Italian civilizations.

What other artifacts can I see besides the Griffins in Ascoli Satriano?

Beyond the famous Griffins, you can view a large ceremonial basin adorned with painted Nereids wrapped in violet cloaks, depicting the mythological scene of Nereids bearing Achilles on sea horses—a gift from his mother Thetis along with his armor. The recently excavated Faragola archaeological park also provides additional insights into the Daunian period.

How do I get to Ascoli Satriano from Foggia?

Ascoli Satriano is located southwest of Foggia, making it easily accessible from this major regional hub in Puglia. From Foggia, you can reach the town by car in approximately 30-40 minutes, allowing you to explore the Daunian archaeological sites and the recently excavated Faragola area.

What is the Trapezophoros and why is it significant?

The Trapezophoros is an ancient architectural support beam, and the examples found in Ascoli Satriano are particularly valuable as they are decorated with intricate marble griffins and feature rare polychrome (multi-colored) work from the 4th century B.C. These pieces demonstrate the sophisticated artistic and craftsmanship capabilities of the Daunian civilization during this period.

The griffins of Ascoli Satriano — Ascoli Satriano

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Art, Theaters and Museums 📍 Ascoli Satriano, Italy 337 views

The griffins of Ascoli Satriano

the Griffins of Ascoli Satriano, marvelous polychrome marbles dated 325-300 B.C. that adorned a Daunian tomb, together with a large basin that still shows painted Nereids, wrapped in violet cloaks, bearing Achilles on sea horses the gift of his mother Thetis, an impenetrable suit...

Photo · Elena C.

The griffins of Ascoli Satriano — Ascoli Satriano, Italy.

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Ascoli Satriano

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Art, Theaters and Museums

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About The griffins of Ascoli Satriano

The griffins of Ascoli Satriano - Ascoli Satriano | Secret World Trip Planner

the Griffins of Ascoli Satriano, marvelous polychrome marbles dated 325-300 B.C. that adorned a Daunian tomb, together with a large basin that still shows painted Nereids, wrapped in violet cloaks, bearing Achilles on sea horses the gift of his mother Thetis, an impenetrable suit of armor. Southwest of Foggia, Ascoli Satriano was a pre-Roman center; here Pyrrhus had his proverbially ephemeral victory. Of the Daunian period it offers several testimonies, including the recently excavated archaeological park in the Faragola area.