Vegetation Cover and Tumuli’s Shape as Affecting Factors of Microclimate and Biodeterioration Risk for the Conservation of Etruscan Tombs (Tarquinia, Italy)

The conservation of underground tombs is affected by several physical-chemical and biological factors, which could be reduced insulating systems able to maintain the microclimatic stability also decreasing biodeterioration risk. In Mediterranean areas, wild ephemeral plants, reduce their cover during hot season, seem unsuitable for reducing summer overheating. this study, we wish assess influence vegetation overlaying soil, after establishment an evergreen turf a cultivar Cynodon dactylon, on two in Etruscan Necropolis Monterozzi, covered linear-shaped tumuli. Therefore, evaluated 10 months thermo-hygrometric values these tombs, together with as controls. We different tumuli’s morphologies related received solar radiation. Results confirmed that late early autumn critical periods risk factors hypogeal paintings when peaks superficial temperature occur. A positive maintaining constant humidity internal temperatures was detected, but mounds orientation, well soil depth, seems have relevant role. Considering naturalistic features area cultural ecosystem services, careful selection plants suggested.