Archaeologists have uncovered three remarkably well-preserved 5,000-year-old chambers known locally as 'domus de janas' or 'fairy houses' on a hillside in Sardinia. The discovery, made by the Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape for the Provinces of Sassari and Nuoro, adds to just 17 previously known examples of these late Neolithic and Copper Age structures.
Despite their folkloric name rooted in local tradition, the structures served as burial sites rather than homes for magical creatures. Excavations revealed bones and human remains, confirming their use as ancient tombs. The chambers, carved into rock and featuring relief details mimicking houses of the living, included symbolic decorations linked to magical-religious rituals.
The fan-shaped complex branches out from an existing structure known as the Tomb of the Hearth within the Sant'Andrea Priu archaeological site, recently designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the artefacts found in excellent condition were stone tools, including pickaxes and a miniature greenstone axe, as well as a spindle whorl used in textile production. Shards of obsidian and ceramic were scattered across the site.
Particularly rich finds came from a chamber named the Tomb of the Roman Vases, which contained over 30 pottery fragments from the Roman era, including oil lamps, serving plates and liquid vessels. The walls featured decorative painted bands, showcasing advanced stone-carving techniques from more than five millennia ago.
The discovery underscores the archaeological significance of Sardinia, an island south of Corsica, known for both its coastal allure and ancient heritage. Officials described the artefacts as being in 'excellent condition', offering new insights into Neolithic and Copper Age funerary practices.
