Montessu

The magnificent prenuragic necropolis of Montessu represents one of the largest funeral areas in Sardinia. It stretches over a kilometer on a trachytic volcanic rock which embraces a vast natural amphitheatre of outstanding beauty. The tombs, called Domus de Janas, are about 40, and differ in planimetry and size. Across the whole area there are carved chambers, inner chambers, benches, columns and a variety of other decorative expressions. Graffiti, paintings, carved rocks and engravings are to be found and are related to the worship of the Earth, representations of the mother goddess and the god Taurus. The pottery found during excavations attest a long use of the necropolis in the late Neolithic (3200-2800 BC) and the recent Eneolithic Bronze Age (2400-1600 BC).