Lucone di Polpenazze, Archaeological site and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Polpenazze del Garda, Italy.
Lucone di Polpenazze is an archaeological site near Lake Garda's western shore where prehistoric wooden structures built on stilts above water have been uncovered. The excavations have revealed numerous objects including tools, ceramic fragments, and vessels left behind by the ancient inhabitants.
The site was discovered in the 16th century during drainage work and was extensively studied in the 1950s and 1960s. These investigations revealed that the area had been an important settlement location since prehistoric times.
The excavation reveals pottery styles and tools left by early communities that lived along the lake's edge. These finds offer insight into the daily life and crafting techniques of the people who once inhabited this region.
Access to the site typically requires a guided tour since the excavation areas are protected and expert explanations are valuable. Visitors who want to learn more can visit the Archaeological Museum of Valle Sabbia, where additional artifacts are on display.
The remains of a child's skull suggest the prehistoric community practiced rituals, possibly connected to founding or protecting settlements. This discovery is one of the few direct clues to such ritual customs in this region.
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