The Helmets of Verucchio: Production and Significance

Abstract

Abstract Forty-eight helmets were discovered in the Villanovan necropoleis in Verucchio (Italy). Due to this large number of finds and the typological variety of the helmets, Verucchio can be considered a privileged observatory for the study of this class of materials. Helmets were in fact typical products of metallurgical workmanship. It is known that the Villanovan aristocracy in Verucchio based its self-portrayal extensively on the exaltation of its role and the warrior ideology. For this reason, rich panoplies were placed inside male burials, including in some cases helmets as well. This work, therefore, seeks to illustrate the main features of helmet production in Verucchio by examining the technical characteristics of the helmets in detail, identifying the craftsmanship and recognizing both original traits and those externally inspired.