San Calocero al Monte

San Calocero al Monte is an archaeological site in Albenga that reveals layers of Roman and early Christian history through its excavated remains. The location sits on the northern slopes of Monte San Martino and displays structures, burials, and religious buildings that span several centuries of antiquity.

The site began as a burial ground during the late Roman Empire and later became home to a church honoring an early Christian martyr. This transformation from secular to sacred space reflects the religious shift that took place across the region during this period.

The site contains substantial epigraphic findings from late antiquity that document the religious traditions and social practices of early Christian communities.

The site is open to visitors, with conditions best on dry days and sturdy footwear recommended for the sloped terrain. A guide or prior knowledge of the layout helps visitors navigate the different excavated areas and understand what they are seeing.

During the 20th century, a pioneer of modern archaeological methods conducted systematic excavations here that changed how scholars understood the layering of ancient sites. These pioneering techniques helped researchers reconstruct the history of this area with greater precision.