Among the hills of the Oltrepò Pavese hides a hidden jewel of Italian medieval history: the fortified village of Monte Pico. Situated in the municipality of Fortunago, this archaeological site is an important testimony to the past, with artefacts spanning a time span from prehistoric times to the early 20th century.
Monte Pico: The Resurrection of a Medieval Village
In the heart of this land rich in history, Monte Pico stands like a bastion of time, a site that has revealed its complexity thanks to the archaeological excavations conducted since 2011. Thanks to the collaboration between the Superintendence for Archaeological Heritage of Lombardy and the Catholic University of Milan, under the guidance of Professor Silvia Lusuardi Siena, the team of archaeologists brought to light a significant part of the fortified village.
The Archaeological Discoveries
Research conducted on the site revealed the existence of two distinct city walls, a sign of its strategic importance. The outermost wall had a defensive function, protecting the village from attacks, while the innermost one served as a monumental entrance, with a tower-gate datable between the 12th and 13th centuries. This structure, imposing and solid, was probably the main access point to the village, a place of control and security.
Within the walls, archaeologists have also discovered traces of post-medieval dwellings. Prominent among these is a monumental brick cistern, which was later converted into an ice house, testifying to the ingenuity of its inhabitants in exploiting available resources.
Finds of Inestimable Value
In addition to the wall structures, Monte Pico has revealed a number of artefacts that tell the story of the daily life and activities of its inhabitants over the centuries. Among the oldest finds are an arrowhead and an axe blade in green stone from the Neolithic period, symbols of a human presence dating back millennia.
Also of particular interest are the ceramic and glass fragments found during the excavations. Pot shards and fragments of hanging lamps tell of a daily life made up of simple but essential gestures. Among the coin finds, some 15th-century specimens stand out, offering an economic and commercial insight into the area during the Middle Ages.
A Heritage to be Valued
The discoveries made at Monte Pico are not only a valuable contribution to the historical knowledge of the Oltrepò Pavese, but also represent a unique opportunity for cultural tourism. The site, with its finds and structures, has the potential to become a reference point for scholars and enthusiasts of medieval history.
In addition, the involvement of the local community, such as that of Luciano Tamini, owner of the hillside area that made the excavations possible, is crucial for the valorisation and preservation of this heritage. Their commitment shows how important it is to preserve and promote historical memory for future generations.
