Parco Archeologico Nazionale dei Massi di Cemmo

The vast heritage of rock art in the Camonica Valley boasts an exceptional record: in the 1979 was the first Italian site to be inscribed on the World Heritage List UNESCO.

Discovery and the Landscape

The park lies in a picturesque glacial basin, protected by an imposing rock face. This magical place was the first evidence of Camuna rock art to be scientifically documented: it was the year 1909 when the geographer Gualtiero Laeng reported the presence of two extraordinary historiated boulders dating from the 3rd millennium B.C. The engravings on the boulders offer a vivid insight into prehistoric life, with depictions of:

• Animals and anthropomorphic figures;
• Weapons and ploughing scenes;
• Four-wheel wagons, valuable technological testimony of the time.

The Megalithic Sanctuary

Recent archaeological investigations, which began during the establishment of the Park and are still in the process of being further investigated, have revealed an even more complex reality: an ancient megalithic shrine. The sacred space, originally bordered by a walled enclosure, was embellished with numerous decorated stelae.

Continuity and Transformation

The site's history spans millennia of spirituality:

• Origins: Already frequented in the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods, the sanctuary was officially founded in the’Copper Age.
• Evolution: Through progressive renovations, the site remained a ceremonial hub throughout the Iron Age and Roman times.
• The transition to Christianity: Pagan worship ceased between 4th and 5th centuries A.D., when the area was decommissioned by the early Christians. As a sign of continuity and religious transformation, the monumental Parish church of San Siro, which still dominates the landscape today.