MEGALITHIC MONUMENTS
INTERNATIONAL
INTERNATIONAL
| Necropoli di Puttu Codinu |
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| The Necropolis of Puttu Codinu (3,500 BC) consists of nine underground Neolithic graves/tombs excavated into the rock facing Lake Temo, that surrounds the medieval town of Montelone Roccadoria, and the nature park of Monte Minerva. Among the limestone banks that characterize the area, there are two low outcrops placed side by side, with a slightly sloping rock face, in which a Necropolis was carved. One outcrop houses the Tombs I - II, while the other houses the Tombs III - IX, with entrances orientated towards E/SE. Depending on the morphology, the entrances are preceded by a short dromoi (corridors dug into the rock) sometimes leading to a pavilion (Tombs II, VIII & IX), where the access door opens. The tombs are all multicellular, mainly characterized by a 'T-shaped' plan; some asymmetries suggest that expansion works have been carried out. Tomb VIII is the most interesting of the Necropolis, where the shape of the Neolithic hut is reproduced with sculptured gable roof, a false window facing East and huge bull horns carved on the four sides of the room. An 18cm tall little statue carved from white limestone representing the Mother Goddess has also been found inside this tomb. Tomb IX it is possible to see two juxtaposed hemispherical cupels. Tomb VII there are two menhirs and a flat slab, probably symbols of the funeral area that included the Tombs VIII-IX. |
| LOCATION The necropolis is located 4 miles from Villanova Montelone. 40°29'11.5"N 8°31'07.9"E |
