Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju facts for kids
Entrance of one of domus de janas
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| Location | Alghero, Sardinia, Italy |
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| Type | Burial |
| History | |
| Periods | Neolithic, Chalcolithic, Bronze Age |
| Cultures | Pre-Nuragic Sardinia |
The Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju is an ancient burial ground located in Sardinia, an island in Italy. It's found north of the city of Alghero. This site is the biggest burial ground from a time in Sardinia before the famous Nuragic civilization.
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Discovering an Ancient Burial Site
The Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju was found by accident in 1903. Workers were digging to build a farmhouse at a winery called Sella&Mosca. They uncovered a human skull and a special three-legged pot.
After these exciting finds, an archaeologist named Antonio Taramelli started digging more in 1904. He found ten ancient tombs. These tombs are known as domus de janas, which means "houses of fairies" in the local language. Later, 21 more tombs were found, bringing the total to 38!
What Was Found Inside the Tombs?
Inside the many tomb chambers, archaeologists found lots of interesting items. These items are called grave goods. They include things like vases, small statues, weapons, and necklace beads.
These finds help us understand when the necropolis was used. It dates back to the Late Neolithic period (around 3200-2800 BC). People also used it during the Copper Age and early Bronze Age, from about 2800 to 1600 BC.
Tools and Trade from Long Ago
Many tools were found, like flint tools, mace-heads, and arrowheads. These suggest that the people living here were skilled hunters and warriors.
The items also show that ancient Sardinia was a busy place for trade. Archaeologists found silver rings and copper daggers that likely came from Spain. An awl (a tool for making holes) probably came from southern France. A copper ring had an Eastern European style, and an axe was from the British Isles.
Sardinia itself had something valuable to trade: obsidian. This is a type of volcanic glass from Monte Arci, an old volcano on the island.
Mysterious Bull Carvings
One of the most amazing things at Anghelu Ruju are the carvings of long-horned bulls' heads. These are found inside and around at least three of the tombs.
Experts think these bull carvings might be linked to a "Mother Goddess" belief. They could also suggest that the people had a special connection to the sun.
Gallery
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Ceramic vessel, Bell Beaker culture
See also
In Spanish: Anghelu Ruju para niños
