Necropolis of Pantalica – Sortino, Italy - Atlas Obscura
Places near me Random place

Necropolis of Pantalica

Sortino, Italy

Thousands of rock-cut tombs fill the cliffs of this Sicilian nature preserve. 

View all photos
1
2
Top Places in Italy
Ospedale delle Bambole (Doll Hospital)
Rome, Italy
Ponte dei Pugni (Bridge of Fists)
Venice, Italy
Balestrino Ghost Village
Balestrino, Italy
 See All
This entry is a stub
Help improve Atlas Obscura by expanding Necropolis of Pantalica with additional information or photos.

The southeastern corner of the island of Sicily is home to the Necropolis of Pantalica, a collection of cemeteries with rock-cut chamber tombs. There are thought to be just under 4,000 tombs in the area, dating from the 13th to the 7th centuries BC.

The area is of archaeological significance, and it is also a nature reserve, Riserva Naturale Orientata Pantalica). The landscape down in the preserve is filled with lush greenery and beautiful swimming holes.

Atlas Obscura Trips

NEW - Southern Italy: Castles, Caves & Coastal Treasures in Puglia

Whimsical architecture, outstanding olive oil, and gorgeous landscapes.
Book Now
necropolis nature preserves cliffs tombs burial places archaeology history & culture
Community Contributors
1538okami
Added by
1538okami
Published
October 31, 2024
Edit this listing
Make an Edit Add Photos
Nearby
Fonte Ciane
13.22 miles
Ear of Dionysius
14.31 miles
Fountain of Arethusa
15.53 miles
Want to see fewer ads? Become a Member.
Near This Place
Syracuse, Italy

Fonte Ciane

According to legend, after Hades pulled Persephone into the underworld, one of her attendant nymphs cried so much that her tears formed this spring.
Syracuse, Italy

Ear of Dionysius

Italian cave with exceptional acoustics and an unsavory history.
Syracuse, Italy

Fountain of Arethusa

According to Greek mythology, this natural spring is the home of a freshwater nymph.
Crypt of wealthy church donors, one level below.
Syracuse, Italy

Chiesa di San Filippo Apostolo

Built on a medieval synagogue, this church has a burial crypt, tunnel system, and Jewish ritual bath hiding deep underneath.
Related Places
Bonorva, Italy

Necropolis of Sant'Andrea Priu

A Nuragic tomb, a Roman tomb, and a Byzantine Church, all hidden inside a rock.
Ciutadella de Menorca, Spain

Necròpolis de Cala Morell

These ancient burial caves carved into the cliffs offer a glimpse into prehistoric funeral practices and Menorca's early inhabitants.
Buri, Bahrain

Dilmun Burial Mounds

These 4,000-year-old tombs form a surreal landscape.
Rome, Italy

Tomb of Eurysaces the Baker

A freedman baker’s lavish tomb has a relief showing various stages of Roman bread making.
In partnership with KAYAK

Plan Your Trip

From Around the Web