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"Great is the power of memory that dwells in places." (from Cicero)

Kategorie Farbe
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Flint arrowheads

Flint arrowheads, which were attached to the arrow shaft, testify to hunting activity in the high mountains. The stalk of this perfectly preserved arrowhead helped with its insertion into the shaft. The rich hunting grounds on the vast Alpe di Siusi plateau between Compaccio and Sasso Piatto attracted hunters from the early Mesolithic period and continued to attract hunters into the Copper Age, as this find at the Panorama proves.  

Small copper axe

This 6cm copper tool attests to the transition from the Stone Age to the early Metal Age (3,200-2,200 BC). As part of a settled way of life, people began to extract and process copper to make tools. The discovery site of this axe, near a water source under a mighty dolomite block at the foot of the Sasso Lungo, suggests that it might have been a votive offering. 

Irregular flint flakes

A well as finished tools, irregular flakes, which were a by-product of local tool processing, are often found at prehistoric sites (10,000 – 5,500 BC). These flakes of grey-coloured flint attest to the use of local flint deposits, such as those from Col dala Pieres. Flint (Ladin: piera da fuech) was also used for lighting fires, which is why it is sometimes called firestone.

This cultural asset is part of the tour "Following the traces of Stone Age hunters and gatherers".

Quartz and flint flakes

Small worked flint pieces (microliths) were excavated at the large dolomite block known as the 'Cionstoan' (Ladin: Sas dla Stria), which is the oldest hunter's shelter yet discovered in South Tyrol. They were parts of the throwing weapons and arrows of Mesolithic hunters. In addition to flint, quartz was also used, though less frequently. This transparent mineral may have been attributed with magical significance.  

Tools made from flint and sea snail

In the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods (10,000 – 5,500 BC), most tools were made from stone, primarily flint (Silex), which is widespread in the Alps. Tools such as blades, scrapers, burins, awls, and small arrowheads (microliths and trapezoidal points) were created using specific techniques. In addition to more common tools, the Columbella rustica (sea snail) shell was also discovered at Plan de Frea, which is the most important Mesolithic excavation site in the Southern Alpine region. 

Fragments of Melaun pitchers

Fragments of several pitchers made of so-called 'Melaun ceramic' from the late Bronze Age were discovered at Lech Sant at Mastlé (Aschgleralm). These jugs feature girlands and small vertical borders going down the sides. They were principally used for religious rituals at cult sites or cremations as vessels for pouring special liquids. 

Decorated ceramic fragments from Laugen vessels

Fragments of several 'classic' Laugen jugs (named after the discovery site near Bressanone) were found on the Postal crest at 2400-2500 metres above sea level. They are assumed to be libation vessels that were deliberately smashed during cult acts. The weather-beaten shards of clay from the late Bronze Age are part of a series of discoveries from the Sciliar plateau, which is assumed to have been a fire sacrifice site (1200-1000 B.C.).