Balzi Rossi Museum: a Deep Dive into the Ligurian Paleolithic

Located in Ventimiglia, Liguria, the Prehistoric Museum of the “Balzi Rossi” and its archaeological area is one of the most important prehistoric sites in Europe. It takes its name from the reddish color of the dolomitic-limestone cliff overlooking the sea, just a few steps from the French border.

History and Discoveries

The site is a complex of caves and rock shelters that were inhabited by Paleolithic humans for about 230,000 years. Archaeological excavations, which began in the 19th century, have uncovered an enormous quantity of finds, including stone tools, animal remains, and, above all, sixteen hominid skeletons. These discoveries, known as the “Grimaldi Man,” provide crucial evidence of the presence of Cro-Magnon humans in Europe. The museum, founded in 1898 by Sir Thomas Hanbury and expanded in 1994, exhibits a selection of the recovered artifacts, though many are now held in museums around the world. The exhibition route offers an overview of the research carried out and the environments in which our ancestors lived.

The Visitor Route

The visit is divided into two main sections: the museum and the archaeological area.

• The Museum: housed in a modern building, it contains the collections of artifacts. One of its main attractions is the Triple Burial, a rare example of a multiple burial of individuals of different ages. The museum’s rooms illustrate the life and habits of Paleolithic hunter-gatherers, with dioramas and reconstructions.
• The Archaeological Area: the visit continues outdoors, allowing visitors to explore some of the main caves, such as the Grotta del Caviglione and the Grotta dei Fanciulli. Visiting these cavities offers the opportunity to observe the excavated stratigraphies, which reveal the various geological and cultural layers.

Visitor Information

• Address: Via Balzi Rossi, 9, 18039 Ventimiglia (IM)
• Opening hours: open from Tuesday to Sunday, with hours varying according to the season.
• Tickets: full and reduced tickets are available. On certain dates (e.g., the first Sunday of the month), admission is free.
• Accessibility: the museum provides services for visitors with disabilities, and the area is partially accessible.

Cover photo credits: Giuosuè Zeneize, Google Maps