The archaeological site of Mursia, located on the island of Pantelleria, is one of the most significant and best-preserved protohistoric complexes in the central Mediterranean. The protohistoric settlement, dating from the late Early and Middle Bronze Ages (circa 1750-1450 BC), stands on a rocky outcrop 30 meters above sea level. It is characterized by an imposing fortification wall known as the "Muro Alto," extending for approximately 210 meters, with a preserved height of up to 9 meters and a base width of approximately 6 meters.
Within the settlement, archaeological investigations have uncovered a complex system of residential structures: a variety of semi-subterranean oval huts, which later became quadrangular huts, as well as production complexes such as food ovens, pressing plants, hearths, and cooking utensils. The finds include local ceramics, polished stone tools (pestles, millstones), obsidian artifacts, metal objects, as well as decorative and functional artifacts that testify to long-distance trade: ivory bracelets, faience or glass beads, stone scale weights, flint, and crystalline elements.
The necropolis, located in the Cimillia area and surrounding the village, includes monumental burial mounds—the "sesi"—built from dry lava stone, with a circular plan and an internal burial chamber, some with multiple chambers. These mounds appear in large quantities in the area and were already known as early as the 19th century; more recent excavations have confirmed their extraordinary preservation and architectural significance.
The Mursia complex offers exceptional evidence of protohistoric island civilization, serving as a strategic hub for Mediterranean trade during a crucial period for the development of metallurgy, agriculture, and fortified settlements. The Art Bonus initiative aims to enhance this heritage through conservation, research, and promotion activities for educational and museum purposes.
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