Mendolito, Archaeological site in Adrano, Italy
Mendolito is an archaeological site near Adrano situated on a basalt plateau along the eastern bank of the Simeto River. The roughly 80-hectare area contains remains of ancient houses, city gates, burial grounds made from lava stone, and artifacts from several periods of occupation.
Systematic excavations from 1962 to 1963 uncovered archaic houses, a city gate, and a burial ground constructed from rough lava blocks. The discoveries indicate the settlement was continuously occupied through multiple ancient periods.
The place reveals the daily lives of people who settled here in ancient times and left behind traces of their community. Visible remains show how residents organized their homes and conducted trade and crafts across the terrain.
The site sits near the Simeto River, which provided natural water sources and rich volcanic soil that supported ancient settlement. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the terrain is uneven and covered with lava stone.
One of the most remarkable discoveries is a small bronze statue called the 'Efebo' dating to the 6th century BC, now displayed in the archaeological museum in Syracuse. This figure demonstrates the artistic skill and trade connections the ancient residents maintained with other Mediterranean regions.
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