Archaeologists from Sapienza University of Rome, delving into the depths of the Battifratta cave nestled within the rugged terrain near Poggio Nativo in the Sabina region of Lazio, Italy, unearthed a remarkable find—a clay figurine bearing distinctly female features. Dating back approximately 7000 years to the Neolithic period, this artifact offers a glimpse into the lives of the peninsula’s earliest farming communities.
Described as “very rare” within Italy and virtually absent from the archaeological record along the Tyrrhenian slope, this discovery carries significant weight. The Battifratta Cave, with its labyrinthine passages adorned with mesmerizing stalagmites and stalactites, provides the backdrop for this intriguing revelation.
Part of an extensive research endeavor led by the Sapienza Grand Excavations Fund, focused on the prehistoric settlements of the Farfa Valley and its environs, the exploration of Battifratta Cave is a window into ancient history. Under the auspices of the Department of Ancient World Studies at Sapienza University, a multidisciplinary team is delving into the technological and stylistic nuances of the figurine, unraveling the mysteries of its creation.
While the doll’s facial features are sketched in a schematic fashion, meticulous attention was evidently paid to its hairstyle and adornments. Dr. Cecilia Conati of Sapienza University elucidates the significance of this discovery, noting that the coexistence of ceramics, faunal remains, botanical specimens, and even a human skeleton alongside the figurine hints at a multifaceted purpose. The presence of these elements suggests that the cave’s spring, once solely a source of sustenance, also served as a nexus for burial rites and ritualistic ceremonies.
The Battifratta Cave, a sanctuary for early human inhabitants navigating the challenges of survival through hunting, gathering, and nascent agricultural practices, now emerges as a locus of ancient reverence. While the specifics of the rituals conducted within its confines remain shrouded in the mists of time, the presence of the clay doll speaks volumes, offering a tangible link to ceremonies of antiquity.
Source: Sapienza University