Castelliere di Variano
Museum | Variano | Friuli-Venezia Giulia | Italy
The Castelliere di Variano is an important archaeological site from the Bronze Age, located on the hill of San Leonardo in the village of Variano, a district of Basiliano in the province of Udine. This fortified settlement, built between 1500 and 1400 BC, provides valuable insights into the life of the prehistoric communities of the region.
Location and Structure:
The Castelliere was built on a natural hill, giving it a strategic defensive position. The settlement was surrounded by a massive wall built using the so-called "a sacco" technique: two parallel outer walls were constructed and the space between them was filled with rubble, pottery shards, or bones. This construction method allowed for a robust structure that provided shelter to the inhabitants.
Archaeological Finds:
Excavations have revealed various structures within the Castelliere, including:
Residential buildings: The remains of two buildings with supporting posts and walls made of clay show the building techniques of the time.
Storage pits: Dug-out storage pits were used for food preservation.
Fireplaces: Evidence of cooking and heating areas.
Tools: Finds of pottery, bronze objects, and other artifacts demonstrate the craft activities of the inhabitants.
These discoveries provide a detailed understanding of the lifestyle and daily activities of the prehistoric communities in the region.
Significance:
The Castelliere di Variano is an outstanding example of the Castellieri culture, characterized by fortified settlements and widespread in Istria, Dalmatia, and northeastern Italy. This culture extended from the 19th century BC to the 3rd century BC and is known for its characteristic hill forts.
Current Use:
Today, the Castelliere di Variano is an important archaeological monument and a destination for researchers and visitors interested in prehistoric cultures. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the early history of the region and is being further explored through continuous archaeological research.
