Ciappo dei Ceci

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One of the most ancient rock carvings in Finale

The territory of Finale preserves wide open rock surfaces that are characterised by numerous rock carvings that were made over a long period of time, between the Metal ages (3^rd -1^st millennium BCE) and the 19^th century CE. In the local dialect the large stone slabs with graffiti are called “ciappi”.

“Ciappo dei Ceci” is formed by a slab of limestone and is located on the Bric Spaventaggi. On the surface, spread for around over 300mq, one can see crosses carved into the rock, modern writing and channel systems that link basins, a real rudimentary system to collect rain water so to give the animals water and to attract them to hunt them.

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MORE INFORMATION – Ciappo dei Ceci

These numerous carvings, similar to the ones that are further north on Ciappo delle Conche, testify an intense frequentation of the area starting from the prehistoric period. The site is divided into two close but distinct complexes, called A and B. The first complex is the biggest one, close to San Bernardino, and it has channels and basins running along it. The most important carving is that of a cross. Area B is smaller and has a basin with three channels placed in a V shape and an interesting figure in a dynamic pose.

Ciappu dei Ceci preserves archaeological evidences attributable to “artistic” manifestations (rock carvings) referable to a wide chronological timeframe, of which some of the most ancient attestations of this kind in the region for the Metal ages (3^rd-1^st millennium B.C.). Other carvings can be dated to other historic phases (medieval and modern age).

In some parts of the area, covered by plants, there could still be graffiti that still have to be documented.