Grotta dei Cavalli, Prehistoric cave in San Vito Lo Capo, Italy
The Grotta dei Cavalli is a prehistoric cave near San Vito Lo Capo in Sicily that sits on a cliff face overlooking the sea. Red rock paintings on the right wall show human figures, abstract patterns, and symbols against natural limestone formations.
People lived in this cave during the Old Stone Age, with most of the surviving artwork dating to the Copper Age. The paintings show human presence and artistic expression across multiple prehistoric periods.
The paintings inside show human figures, animals, and boats that reflect how early inhabitants connected with nature and their surroundings. These images offer insight into the daily life and beliefs of the people who lived here.
The entrance sits about 40 meters above sea level and is reached by following marked trails from the nearby beach. Wear sturdy shoes and take your time walking the paths to see all the artwork on the walls properly.
At sunset during summer solstice, the cave interior fills with deep red light that glows against the ancient paintings. This natural effect may have been intentionally observed and valued by the earliest artists who created the images.
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