Ripari Villabruna

Ripari Villabruna is an archaeological site located in a rock shelter in the Cismon valley at about 500 meters (1,640 feet) elevation near Sovramonte. The site contains multiple layers of prehistoric settlement remains, including a well-preserved burial chamber with human skeletal remains and associated stone and bone artifacts.

The rock shelter was inhabited around 14,000 years ago, as confirmed by excavations in 1988 that uncovered a complete skeleton with carefully arranged grave goods. This discovery documents one of the oldest known burial sites in the region and provides insight into early mortuary practices.

The burial site reveals carefully positioned grave goods made from stone, bone, and pigment, suggesting ritualized funeral practices. These objects show how early people honored their dead and expressed values through material offerings.

The site is not accessible to visitors without special permission, as it remains an active archaeological research location. Anyone interested in visiting should contact local authorities or archaeological institutions in advance to inquire about possible access arrangements.

The site holds remains of an individual known as Villabruna 1, whose genetic markers belong to the oldest documented examples of a specific Y-DNA lineage. This genetic link connects the location to the deepest human prehistoric ancestry.

Location: Sovramonte

Location: Province of Belluno

Location: Veneto

GPS coordinates: 46.08463,11.76453

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:49