Petre de la Mola, Rock formation and archaeological site in Gallipoli Cognato Park, Italy
Petre de la Mola is a rock formation in Gallipoli Cognato Park composed of multiple limestone blocks shaped by natural erosion over time. The structure sits at approximately 1000 meters elevation and spreads across several municipalities in the region.
Archaeological excavations at Monte Croccia uncovered Bronze Age pottery and rock carvings indicating early human settlement in the area. These findings show that people inhabited this region during prehistoric times.
The name refers to a distinctive rock mass that has shaped the local landscape for generations. Visitors can see how the formation naturally dominates its surroundings today.
The site is accessible via hiking trails that pass through several municipalities and lead to the rock formations. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear and explore the area during daylight hours when visibility is best.
The rock formation displays a remarkable alignment with solstices and equinoxes, functioning like a natural stone calendar. This cosmic connection becomes especially visible during the winter solstice in December.
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