Dissecting the active galactic nucleus in Circinus – III. <i>VLT/FORS2</i> polarimetry confirms dusty cone illuminated by a tilted accretion disc

We present polarimetric maps of the Circinus galaxy nucleus in $BVRI$ bands, obtained with VLT/FORS2. is closest Seyfert 2 and harbours an archetypal obscured active galactic (AGN). Recent high angular resolution imaging revealed that a major fraction its mid-infrared (MIR) emission coming from polar region. Previously, we demonstrated these observations are consistent model compact dusty disc hyperboloid shell, resembling hollow cone on larger scales. Here focus AGN core, up to 40 pc central engine, compare radiative transfer models. Polarization reveal conical structure, coinciding ionization cone. The wavelength-dependence polarization degree indicates scattering dust grains producing polarization. observed ($\approx1-3\%$) lower than predicted by models; however, this only limit, since stellar dominates total flux optical. angle ($\approx30$ degrees) reproduced illuminated tilted anisotropic source. An accretion aligned axis, alternative geometries, such as paraboloid or torus enveloped ambient dust, inconsistent data. conclude optical supports earlier evidence for presence region, tentatively associated outflows.