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Musée de l'Alta Rocca: Unveiling Corsica's Ancient Past

Discover 11,000 years of Corsican history at Musée de l'Alta Rocca in Levie, showcasing ancient artifacts and the island's oldest skeleton in a captivating setting.

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The Musée de l'Alta Rocca in Levie offers a captivating journey through Corsica's history, spanning 11,000 years of human occupation. Nestled in the heart of the Alta Rocca region, this archaeological museum showcases a remarkable collection of artifacts unearthed from local sites, including the skeleton of the oldest woman in Corsica, the 'Dame de Bonifacio.' Explore exhibits detailing daily life from the 8th millennium BC to the Middle Ages, featuring pottery, tools, and jewelry. The museum also displays remains of extinct animals like the Prolagus and offers audio guides in multiple languages, making it an enriching experience for all visitors. A visit here complements explorations of the nearby Cucuruzzu and Capula archaeological sites, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region's rich heritage.

A brief summary to Musée de l'Alta Rocca - Museu di l'Alta Rocca

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Cucuruzzu and Capula archaeological sites for a more complete historical experience.
  • Check the museum's opening hours, as they vary seasonally, with extended hours during the summer months.
  • Take advantage of the audio guides available in multiple languages to enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
  • Explore the village of Levie after your visit to appreciate the local architecture and sample regional cuisine.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the D268 road near Levie, follow signs towards the village center. As you enter Levie, look for signs directing you to the Musée de l'Alta Rocca (Museu di l'Alta Rocca). The museum is located in Quartier Pratu. Parking is available near the museum, but it can be limited during peak season. Allow extra time to find a spot. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus from Ajaccio or Porto-Vecchio, disembark at the bus stop in Levie. From there, the museum is approximately a 15-minute walk. Head east on the main road (D268), following signs for the Musée de l'Alta Rocca. The museum is located in Quartier Pratu. Bus tickets from Ajaccio to Levie cost approximately €18-€26. Bus tickets from Propriano to Levie cost approximately €7-€11.

  • Walking

    From anywhere in the center of Levie, follow the road signs towards Musée de l'Alta Rocca (Museu di l'Alta Rocca). The museum is located in Quartier Pratu, approximately a 15-minute walk from the center of the village. The route is mostly flat and well-signposted.

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Discover more about Musée de l'Alta Rocca - Museu di l'Alta Rocca

The Musée de l'Alta Rocca, located in the charming village of Levie, is a portal to Corsica's distant past. This renowned museum meticulously chronicles 11,000 years of human presence in the Alta Rocca region, presenting a compelling narrative of the island's cultural evolution from the Mesolithic era to the Middle Ages. Stepping inside, visitors are immediately immersed in the world of Corsican archaeology. The museum's extensive collection comprises artifacts recovered from over 60 excavated sites and more than 200 prospected sites within the Alta Rocca. These relics offer invaluable insights into the daily lives, customs, and technological advancements of the people who inhabited this land for millennia. A highlight of the museum is the skeleton of the 'Dame de Bonifacio,' the oldest known human remains discovered in Corsica, dating back to around 7000 BC. This remarkable find provides a tangible link to the island's earliest inhabitants and sparks curiosity about their origins and way of life. Alongside the 'Dame de Bonifacio,' the museum showcases remains of extinct animals, such as the Prolagus, a unique species of rabbit-rat that once roamed the Corsican landscape. The museum's exhibits are thoughtfully organized to guide visitors through different periods of Corsican history. Displays of Neolithic tools and pottery illustrate the transition to agriculture and settled village life. Bronze and Iron Age artifacts, including jewelry, weapons, and metal tools, reveal the development of craftsmanship and social structures. Medieval exhibits feature painted crockery and coin sets, offering a glimpse into a more recent chapter of the island's past. Beyond its archaeological treasures, the Musée de l'Alta Rocca provides context for understanding the region's unique cultural identity. The Alta Rocca, meaning 'high rock,' is a mountainous region characterized by its rugged terrain, dense forests, and traditional pastoral way of life. For centuries, the people of the Alta Rocca have been shaped by their close relationship with the land, developing a distinct culture rooted in agriculture, animal husbandry, and craftsmanship. The museum also serves as a gateway to exploring the wider Alta Rocca region. Visitors can combine their museum visit with excursions to nearby archaeological sites, such as Cucuruzzu and Capula, to further enhance their understanding of Corsica's ancient past. These sites, located on the Levie plateau, feature well-preserved ruins of prehistoric settlements and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. To enhance the visitor experience, the Musée de l'Alta Rocca offers audio guides in multiple languages, including French, English, Italian, and German. These guides provide detailed commentary on the exhibits and offer insights into the historical and cultural significance of the artifacts on display. Guided tours are also available for groups, providing a more personalized and interactive experience. The museum's location in the village of Levie adds to its charm. Levie itself is a picturesque village with traditional stone houses, narrow streets, and a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through the village, admire the local architecture, and sample regional specialties at nearby restaurants and cafes. The village also hosts a popular Medieval Festival each September, offering a vibrant celebration of local history and culture. The Musée de l'Alta Rocca is more than just a museum; it's a cultural hub that connects visitors to Corsica's rich heritage. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of this beautiful island, a visit to the Musée de l'Alta Rocca is an enriching and unforgettable experience. It is a place where the past comes to life, inviting you to explore the stories of the people who shaped Corsica's unique identity.

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