La Grotta dei Cervi di Porto Badisco

Alessandro Romano, regista e scrittore

29 Jan 202310:10

Summary

TLDRThe Grotta dei Cervi in Porto Badisco, Salento, Italy, is a site of significant archaeological importance, discovered on February 1, 1970, by a group of local speleologists. The cave, often referred to as the Sistine Chapel of European Neolithic, contains stunning prehistoric paintings that depict ancient episodes of hunting, family life, and rituals. Despite its cultural and historical value, the cave and its findings remain largely unknown to the public, with only a few publications and museums showcasing the remarkable art. The discovery of the cave and its contents has sparked fascination and many unanswered questions about the ancient civilization that once revered this site.

Takeaways

🌟 The Grotta dei Cervi in Porto Badisco is a significant archaeological site that holds many mysteries of the Salento region.
🎉 Discovered on February 1, 1970, by a group of five speleologists from Salento, the cave revealed a wealth of prehistoric findings.
🐍 The discovery was serendipitous, prompted by a physical need that led to the detection of a warm air current from a rock crevice.
🌌 The cave is referred to as the 'Sistine Chapel of European Neolithic' due to the abundance of ancient paintings within.
📚 Cosimo De Giorgi, an enthusiastic seeker of this land, had previously predicted the presence of neolithic relics in the area a century before the actual discovery.
🖼️ The interior images of the Grotta dei Cervi, inaccessible to the public, depict ancient scenes of hunting, family life, and rituals.
🎓 Isidoro Mattioli, one of the discoverers, shared his and his friends' awe and disbelief upon first seeing the paintings inside the cave.
🕰️ Twenty years after the discovery, the fascination with the cave remains, with many of its findings still not widely recognized or published.
🏛️ Some artifacts from the cave can be found in the National Museum of Taranto and the Prehistory Museum of Otranto.
🌊 The sea, which once frightened the ancient inhabitants, now offers a different perspective, with the cave's original entrance possibly submerged 6000 years ago.
🌌 The Grotta dei Cervi continues to hold untold mysteries, with its rich history and legends making it a unique site in the world.

Q & A

When was the Grotta dei Cervi di Porto Badisco discovered?
-The Grotta dei Cervi di Porto Badisco was discovered on February 1, 1970.
Who were the discoverers of the Grotta dei Cervi di Porto Badisco?
-The grotto was discovered by five men who were part of the speleological group Salentino Pasquale De lorentiis di Maglie.
What event led to the discovery of the grotto?
-The discovery was triggered by one of the group members experiencing a physiological need, which led to the detection of a warm air current rising from a small opening in the rock.
What did the discoverers initially find when they entered the grotto?
-Upon entering the grotto, they found a chamber that is now referred to as the Sistine Chapel of European Neolithic, filled with ancient paintings and artifacts.
What does the term 'Cappella Sistina del Neolitico europeo' refer to in the context of the grotto?
-The term 'Cappella Sistina del Neolitico europeo' refers to the chamber within the Grotta dei Cervi di Porto Badisco, which is richly decorated with Neolithic paintings, similar to the Sistine Chapel in its cultural significance.
What kind of subjects are depicted in the paintings found in the grotto?
-The paintings depict various subjects including hunting scenes, rituals, supplications to deities, family life, children, celestial bodies, seasons, wealth, and the cycle of life and death, as well as Menhir and animal totems.
How has the content of the grotto been preserved and shared with the world?
-The content of the grotto has been preserved and shared through photographs and detailed descriptions in books, such as the one by Cosimo De Giorgi, which allows its beauty to be appreciated and protected without public access.
What is the significance of the discovery made by Diego de Pandis underwater?
-Diego de Pandis, an experienced diver, discovered a large underwater cavern that he believes could be the true entrance to the Grotta dei Cervi used by their ancestors 6000 years ago, which is now submerged due to rising sea levels.
What happened to the original entrance of the grotto according to the script?
-The original entrance of the grotto was likely submerged by rising sea levels around 6000 years ago, which may have caused the inhabitants of the village to abandon their sanctuary.
How has the discovery of the Grotta dei Cervi di Porto Badisco impacted the understanding of prehistoric civilizations?
-The discovery has provided valuable insights into the lives of prehistoric civilizations, showcasing their artistic skills, daily life, and spiritual beliefs, as well as their understanding of the natural world.
Where are the artifacts from the Grotta dei Cervi di Porto Badisco stored?
-The artifacts from the grotto are scattered in various warehouses across Italy, with some being exhibited in the National Museum of Taranto and the Prehistory Museum in Otranto.

Outlines

00:00

🌟 Discovery of the Cave of the Deer - A Hidden World

The paragraph narrates the discovery of the Grotta dei Cervi (Cave of the Deer) in Porto Badisco, Salento, on February 1, 1970. Five members of the speleological Salentino group, led by Pasquale De Lorenzo, made the discovery during their investigations along the coastal area rich in findings. The moment of discovery was triggered by a physiological need when one of the explorers felt a warm air current from a small opening in the rock. This led to the unearthing of what is now known as the 'Sistine Chapel of European Neolithic', filled with impressive prehistoric paintings. The text also mentions Cosimo De Giorgis, an enthusiastic seeker of this land, who would have been proud of the discovery. The narrative further describes the richness of the paintings that depict ancient hunting scenes, supplications to deities, and various aspects of life and nature, highlighting the profound connection between the ancient inhabitants and their environment.

05:09

🏺 Unveiling the Mysteries of the Past - The Legacy of Porto Badisco

This paragraph discusses the lack of comprehensive publications on the artifacts found in the Grotta dei Cervi and the scattered warehouses across Italy that hold some of these relics. It mentions the National Museum of Taranto and the Prehistory Museum of Otranto as places where some of these artifacts can be found. The speaker reflects on a personally impactful image of a woman from the cave, marveling at the skill and mastery of their ancestors. The paragraph continues with the speaker's personal journey to Badisco, his experiences with the sea, and his attempts to connect with the ancient inhabitants' perception of the sea. It also recounts a story of a deep underwater cavern discovered by a skilled diver, Isidoro Mattioli, who suspects it to be the original entrance to the Cave of the Deer used by their ancestors 6000 years ago. The speaker concludes with a reflection on the mysteries that still surround the cave and the rich history and legends it carries.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Grotta dei Cervi

The Grotta dei Cervi, or Cave of the Deer, is a significant archaeological site located in Porto Badisco, Italy. It is renowned for its well-preserved prehistoric paintings and artifacts dating back to the Neolithic period. The site was discovered in 1970 by a group of local speleologists, marking a pivotal moment in the understanding of ancient human culture in the region. The cave's name is derived from the depictions of deer found within its walls.

💡Speleology

Speleology is the scientific study of caves and other subterranean spaces, including their formation, structure, and the organisms that inhabit them. In the context of the video, speleology is the field practiced by the group of five men who discovered the Grotta dei Cervi, showcasing the importance of this discipline in uncovering ancient human history and art.

💡Neolithic

The Neolithic period, also known as the New Stone Age, is a geological epoch that lasted from approximately 10,200 BC to 4,500 BC. It is characterized by the development of agriculture, the domestication of animals, and the construction of permanent settlements. The Grotta dei Cervi contains artwork and artifacts from this era, providing valuable insights into the lives and cultures of Neolithic people in Europe.

💡Petroglyphs

Petroglyphs are rock engravings or carvings created by prehistoric humans, often depicting animals, humans, and other symbols. In the Grotta dei Cervi, the petroglyphs represent various aspects of Neolithic life, including hunting scenes, domestic activities, and possibly spiritual beliefs. These images serve as a window into the past, allowing us to understand the daily life and rituals of ancient communities.

💡Archaeological Discoveries

Archaeological discoveries refer to the uncovering of physical evidence of past human activity, such as structures, tools, and artwork. The Grotta dei Cervi is a prime example of such a discovery, revealing a wealth of prehistoric art and artifacts that have significantly contributed to our understanding of Neolithic culture in Southern Italy.

💡Cultural Heritage

Cultural heritage encompasses the tangible and intangible aspects of a society's past and present, including monuments, artworks, traditions, and language. The Grotta dei Cervi represents an important part of Italy's cultural heritage, as it preserves a unique record of Neolithic life and artistic expression. The preservation and study of such sites are crucial for understanding the roots of human civilization and the development of culture over time.

💡Prehistory

Prehistory refers to the period before the invention of writing, covering the majority of human existence. It is studied through the examination of archaeological sites, artifacts, and other physical evidence. The Grotta dei Cervi provides a glimpse into the prehistoric world, offering insights into the lives of early humans in Southern Italy.

💡Preservation

Preservation refers to the act of maintaining or protecting something from damage, decay, or loss. In the context of the Grotta dei Cervi, preservation is critical to ensure that the cave's archaeological treasures, including its paintings and artifacts, are safeguarded for future generations to study and appreciate.

💡Local Legends

Local legends are stories or folklore that are specific to a particular area or community. They often incorporate elements of history, culture, and the natural environment, reflecting the beliefs and values of the people who tell them. The Grotta dei Cervi is tied to local legends and stories, adding a layer of cultural significance and intrigue to the archaeological site.

💡Subterranean Exploration

Subterranean exploration involves the investigation of underground spaces, such as caves, tunnels, and mines. This type of exploration can reveal important information about the Earth's geology, as well as the history of human use of these spaces. The discovery of the Grotta dei Cervi is a prime example of how subterranean exploration can lead to significant archaeological finds.

💡Archaeological Conservation

Archaeological conservation refers to the process of protecting and maintaining archaeological sites and artifacts to prevent their deterioration and loss. This involves a range of activities, from site stabilization and preservation techniques to the restoration of artifacts. The Grotta dei Cervi's conservation efforts are essential to ensure that its unique Neolithic paintings and artifacts remain accessible and intact for future study and public appreciation.

Highlights

The Grotta dei Cervi di Porto Badisco is a significant archaeological site in Salento, Italy.

The cave was discovered on February 1, 1970, by a group of five speleologists from Salento.

The discovery was made by chance when one of the explorers felt a draft of warm air coming from a small opening.

The cave is home to the 'Sistine Chapel of European Neolithic', a rich collection of prehistoric paintings.

The paintings depict ancient hunting scenes, rituals, and daily life, including images of animals, the sun, and the moon.

The cave's discovery is considered a great adventure and has been the subject of books and photographic accounts.

The cave's interior was inaccessible to the public for many years to protect its unique beauty and historical significance.

The Grotta dei Cervi is believed to contain many mysteries that are yet to be revealed.

The cave's prehistoric inhabitants may have abandoned it due to rising sea levels around 6000 years ago.

The cave's entrance was once at ground level but is now accessed by descending over 20 meters underground.

The discovery of the cave was facilitated by the friendship and collaboration between the explorers and local scholars.

The cave's findings are scattered across various warehouses in Italy, with some exhibited in the National Museum of Taranto.

The cave's images of a woman and other figures are a testament to the skill and artistry of our ancient ancestors.

The cave's discovery has inspired a sense of awe and connection to the past among those who learn about it.

The cave's location by the sea and its historical significance have led to speculation about its use and the reasons for its abandonment.

The cave's paintings and artifacts provide insights into the beliefs, practices, and way of life of the Neolithic people who lived there.

The cave's discovery has had a profound impact on the local community and has become a source of pride and fascination.

The cave's unique combination of natural beauty and cultural significance makes it a site of great interest for both scholars and tourists.

The cave's history and the mystery surrounding it continue to captivate the imagination and inspire further exploration.