Information
Name: Petra di Calacalathansuderj
Type: Museums
Classification: Museum type: specialized, Ownership: private
Registered office: Km 15 SS189 - uscita direzione Comitini SP 51
- Comitini (AG)
Approximately 5 km from the town of Comitini lies the Petra di Calathansuderj, a name of Arab origin that identifies an imposing, isolated rock relief, approximately 30 meters high. The natural structure is rich in cavities, caves, and ancient burials carved into the rock.
Archaeological evidence, including oven tombs and other finds, testifies to the presence of a prehistoric settlement in the area. During the Byzantine era, the site was transformed into a complex of rooms and tunnels on multiple levels, serving as a fortified structure for controlling the surrounding territory and communication routes. This strategic role continued during the Arab and Norman periods, until the 13th century.
Two large artificial structures were carved into the main face of the rock, likely intended for observation and surveillance of the territory. These structures are now protected for conservation reasons.
The finds from the area are preserved in the Antiquarium museum, set up inside Palazzo Bellacera in Comitini, which collects and showcases the site's archaeological evidence.
