The weathering processes of the volcanic tuffs used in the Etruscan tombs of Norchia necropolis (Northern Latium, Italy), microclimatic conditions influencing their surface and structural decay, possible new technologies and materials aimed at their conservation.

The Etruscan necropolis of Norchia boasts an impressive number of monumental cliffhanging tombs, carved in two types of volcanic tuffs that outcrop, at different heights, on the steep slopes of narrow canyons ("forre"). Due to this geomorphological setting, significant thermo-hygrometric gradients are formed between the bottom and the top of the canyons. Each type of tuff is, thus, selectively exposed to different weathering processes. In order to assess the impacts of these local conditions on the conservation of the tombs, a dedicated study has been performed to determine the susceptibility to weathering of the two types of tuffs as well as the microclimatic factors influencing their surface and structural decay. The main results of this study will be presented here and critically discussed, along with information on new technologies that may be helpful to preserve the tombs.