Mondeval, Prehistoric rock shelter at 2150 meters in San Vito di Cadore, Italy.

Mondeval is a prehistoric rock shelter at 2150 meters in the Dolomites, formed by a large overhanging boulder that provides natural protection from the elements. The site sits between the Pelmo massif and Lastoi del Formin peaks in a remote mountain setting.

Vittorino Cazzetta found flint microliths here in 1985 on a molehill beneath the overhanging boulder. Excavations led by Antonio Guerreschi began in 1986 and continued until 2000, revealing three find spots. The oldest layers, at VF1, date to the Sauveterrian (8000–6500 BC); a later Castelnovian grave held a man of about 40, dated to 7425 ± 55 BP.

The burial under the boulder held 61 grave goods of hornstone, bone and flint, plus two lumps of resin and propolis. Most were everyday objects, probably carried in three decayed organic bags at the man's left side; the propolis was likely used as medicine. Three finely worked stone blades, two unused, lay under a shoulder and the head.

Reaching this site requires several hours of hiking from Passo Giau, following marked trails 436 and 466 to reach Casera Mondeval De Sora nearby. You should wear sturdy mountain boots and bring weather-appropriate gear, as the path is steep and mountain conditions change quickly.

The grave held 61 grave goods of hornstone, bone and flint, plus two lumps of resin and propolis. Most were everyday objects, probably kept in three decayed organic bags at the man's left side; the propolis was likely used as medicine, the resin as glue.