Rock Art of Italy: Tuscany

Tuscany Symbolic carvings have been popping up in Tuscany in recent years including the one shown here (top figure) from the 'Rock of the Fairy'. Unfortunately, many of them are in poor states of repair (hence the one picture). One petroglyph depicting a spiral extending from a central point similar to carvings in Val Camonica and Valtellina is nearly unrecognizable due to being used as flooring for centuries, others are deteriorated from lichen and lime growth. Researching archaeologists believe there are likely many more hidden throughout the area. Dating is uncertain at this time, but believed to be third millenium bc or after.

Second and third images are of the famous stelae-statues of Lunigiana dating also from 3rd millenium bc through until Etruscan settlement. Figurines are carved in likeness of male and female with exaggerated characteristics (males with daggers or weapons, females with protruding breasts), but their symbolism; whether these are religious idols, representations of heroes or funerary objects; is unknown. The statuettes range from rough rudimentary carvings to highly stylized figurines.

Next we travel to Portugal..