The rock carvings of Rocceré - a message 4000 years old

A spiritual and mysterious place that appeals for its morphology and stunning views. Walking through its engraved rocks and white quartz take you back more than 4000 years.

Rocceré is one of the most important Bronze Age rock art sites in Europe and is located right at the foot of Maira Valley, in Roccabruna, in the province of Cuneo.

It holds the record for the level of concentration of very small incisions in the area (over 20,000 cup-shaped rock carvings in about 20,000 square meters) and is unique for the type of figures.

In an area embraced by lush vegetation one can admire the Masso Altare on which are the most important engraving of the site, the Roccias Fenestre, the Throne of the King and the Cave of Balmascura.

During the hike is not unusual to see the guardians of Roccerè: ravens. With a little luck one can even spot chamois and golden eagles.

The most exciting and meaningful journey starts from the summit of Rocceré and, along the Roccias Fenestre, reaches up to the altar stone.

You will have the chance to see many enigmatic figures, including that of the "King," the most important anthropomorphic figure of the site.

Roccerè is located between the natural watershed of the Varaita and Maira valleys, the lytic complex Roccias Fenestre is located about 300 meters south of Rocceré, between 1700 and 1800 mt above sea level.

The site is reachable both from Varaita and Maira Valley. From Maira Valley, beginning at Sant Anna village in the municipality of Roccabruna and from Varaita Valley beginning at Sanctuary of Valmala in the municipality of Valmala. Both routes are picturesque and offer excellent food service, with tasting of traditional dishes from both valleys.

Many of the carvings are on boulders in extremely dangerous areas, so visitors are strongly advised not to bring children and schools, unless accompanied by experts very familiar with the place.

For more information: www.roccere.it

Here are more specific information about rock carvings