Grotta di Santa Croce, Archaeological cave in Bisceglie, Italy
Grotta di Santa Croce is a natural cave system near Bisceglie that extends deep into limestone rock, featuring a rock shelter at its entrance and passages with various geological formations throughout. The interior reveals different chambers and corridors that display mineral deposits and stone structures formed over millennia.
Excavations in the 1950s uncovered Neanderthal remains that revealed continuous human presence in this cave during the Paleolithic period. These findings established this location as an important site for understanding early human habitation in the Mediterranean.
The cave served as a dwelling place for people across different periods, visible through the red starburst markings that cover parts of the walls. These symbols reveal how early inhabitants expressed themselves and left traces of their daily lives.
The site is located outside the main town and requires advance booking for guided access, as only a portion of the cave system is open to visitors. It is recommended to arrange your visit ahead of time through local tourism contacts.
Among the most striking discoveries is a remarkably preserved woven basket still holding barley grains alongside clay vessels that were used to collect dripping water. These objects offer a rare window into the practical aspects of daily life for people thousands of years ago.
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