Seeking, Finding and Hiding: A Recent Neolithic Burial-ritual Rock Art Discovery in Northern Sardinia

Abstract

The recent excavation of a rock-cut tomb in northern Sardinia has revealed, albeit through unofficial channels, Neolithic painted rock art that is equal in quality to the painted images found within the rooms of the Hypogeum of H̄al-Saflieni in Malta. This short article explores the development of the Neolithic painted form, which probably has its origins with the first farming communities in the eastern Mediterranean. As a prologue, this article also discusses the official decision to seal up the monument following excavation. Were it not for the tenacity of Mr Porcu, a resident who lives near the site, the international rock art community would not have had a chance to see what splendors the tomb contains. Based on what was briefly recorded by his digital camera, it is clear that certain basic protocols enshrined into the Valetta Convention have been violated.

Keywords:

• Hypogeum
• paintings
• rock art
• protocol
• signatures
• spirals
• Tomba della scacchiera