La tomba di San Luca Evangelista

This volume provides a comprehensive archaeological and historical investigation of the monumental complex of the Basilica of Santa Giustina in Padua, focusing in particular on its ancient funerary area and the lead casket discovered in 1177, which tradition links to Saint Luke the Evangelist. The study opens with a detailed topographical and geomorpohological analysis of the suburban zone, examining the ancient hydrography of the Meduacus river, the surrounding road networks, and the neighboring Roman theatre and necropolises. The core of the research offers an exhaustive examination of the lead casket and its lid, comparing its craftsmanship and distinct star-shaped symbols with parallel examples from the third and fourth centuries AD in southern France and the former Yugoslavia. Furthermore, the analysis of the artifacts recovered inside the casket—particularly the glassware—establishes stylistic and technical connections with early Venetian and Murano production traditions.