Publications
Art and Death in Late Neolithic Sardinia: The Role of Carvings and Paintings in Domus de Janas Rock-cut Tombs
Late Neolithic Sardinian rock-cut tombs, known as domus de janas, were not merely burial sites but complex ritual architectures where art played a pivotal role in shaping deathways. A systematic analysis of carvings and paintings—depicting architectural structures, cattle-head motifs, and geometric designs—in these tombs revealed that motifs were consistently placed at specific locations, suggesting standardized ritual uses. Art actively structured spaces, sequenced rituals, and shaped the ceremonial experience, indicating its significance as a key agent in Late Neolithic death practices.
El Hipogeo Neolitico de Badde de Janas (Putifigari, Cerdeña, Italia): Una Nueva Domus de Janas Con Representaciòn Del Techo
A newly discovered Neolithic hypogeum, Badde de Janas in Sardinia, features a realistic depiction of a double-sloped roof within its main chamber, mirroring the design of domestic structures. This finding challenges assumptions about the scarcity of rectangular dwellings in Neolithic Sardinia and suggests that such representations may instead symbolize cult buildings, akin to the 'Red Temple' at Monte d'Accoddi. The study compares this tomb with nearby S’Incantu, reinforcing its significance as a possible ritual or ceremonial space rather than a direct representation of contemporary housing.
Las Domus de Janas Sardas. Proyección de la “Religión” y Proyección de la Estabilidad
A new interpretation of Sardinia's domus de janas, ancient funerary structures, suggests that animal representations and architectural decorations serve a broader social function beyond religious symbolism. These figures likely originated as 'trophies' displayed in homes, reflecting their role in wealth accumulation, production, and social status. The study proposes that while these animals may have been later divinized, their primary purpose was to project stability and justify societal structures through ideological means. This challenges previous assumptions about the religious significance of these depictions.
The hypogeal necropolis with domus de janas at Birgusa, Corraile – Thiesi (SS)
The hypogeal necropolis at Birgusa, Corraile (Thiesi, Sardinia) stands out as the largest domus de janas grave complex in its region, featuring eight monumental tombs and a natural cave. These structures, dating back to the 5th–4th millennium BCE during the San Michele Ozieri culture, exhibit architectural consistency with other necropolises in the area while incorporating unique symbolic and monumental elements linked to burial cult practices. The site's strategic location on the Corraile plateau (480 m asl) suggests its significance within a broader settlement context. This study highlights the necropolis's role in understanding Neolithic funerary traditions, burial symbolism, and cultural continuity in central Sardinia.
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