Nuovi dati su Venosa nella Tarda antichità: gli ipogei e le catacombe della Maddalena

The catacombs and hypogea situated on Maddalena Hill serve as significant evidence for reconstructing the urban community of Venosa during Late Antiquity. Identified and explored by scholars since the 19th century, these burial sites were utilized by both Jews and Christians, as indicated by the inscriptions and figurative motifs present on the walls, tiles, and oil lamps. The caves had a long history over the centuries: they were often reused by shepherds until recent years or damaged by landslides and collapses. Currently, some of these hypogea remain difficult to locate and are not easily accessible. This paper aims to outline the current state of knowledge regarding the hypogea of Maddalena, based on direct examinations of the sites on the hill. Some results of broader research carried out for the PRIN- Venusia Judaica project will be presented. It focuses on Jewish catacombs and hypogea on Maddalena Hill and consists of a systematic and integrated study that examines various aspects such as technical and structural features, artifacts, types of tombs, decorations and their reuse over time. Comparison with Christian burial areas on Maddalena Hill allow us to outline affinities and differences in Jewish and Christian funerary customs. This comprehensive approach will provide a stronger documentary foundation to address significant questions regarding the cohabitation of Jews and Christians in Late Antique Venosa.