Nature
Monte Arci
Pau
An extinct volcano above the Marmilla – Europe's key Neolithic obsidian source.
Location
Pau
Coordinates: 39.77780, 8.74500
Monte Arci is an extinct volcanic complex between the Campidano and the Marmilla, crowned by the basalt peaks of Trebina Longa and Trebina Lada. Cooling lava produced obsidian of exceptional quality: most of the obsidian traded in the western Mediterranean during the Neolithic came from here. Today the mountain is a regional nature park with holm and cork oak woods, springs and viewpoints; a museum in Pau explains the obsidian landscape.
Highlights
- Basalt peaks Trebina Longa and Trebina Lada
- Neolithic obsidian deposits
- Holm and cork oak woodland
Tips
- Obsidian is protected heritage – do not collect pieces.
- The obsidian museum in Pau is a good starting point.
Best time
Spring and autumn.
Getting there
Access from Pau, Marrubiu and Masullas; forest roads lead to the peaks.
Activities nearby
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