Rock settlements in central Sicily (Italy) between Late antiquity and Middle Ages.

The rupestrian habitat is a distinctive element of the Mediterranean landscape. It is more a dwelling culture which has been shared by different civilizations; a global phenomenon should be investigated in all of its aspects. The Northern area of central Sicily (Italy) has considerable archaeological potential, mainly linked to the impressive rocky habitat scenery. A great connection is evident between the settlements in Late Antiquity, mainly linked to the burial caves and the network of roads connected to the main traffic routes known by the ancient sources, later to be linked to the Italian-Greek monasteries. Many of them are located just on the Nebrodi Mountains, where – it’s no coincidence – the Byzantine army reorganizes himself against the Islamic advance.