Prehistoric Stilt Houses around the Alps (401/418)

Prehistoric Stilt Houses around the Alps (401/418)

It isn't an 'easy' heritage, because it can only be viewed in a diving suit or in museums - it's the first archaeological World Heritage Site that's under water. It's a heritage that's exceptionally rich in prehistoric discoveries, and one which is particularly significant because of its geographic dimensions.

In the occupation layers of the lake floors even materials that break down rapidly, such as textiles and food waste, have survived the millennia, granting a unique insight into the world of early farmers. A copper disc was one of the earliest metal objects to be found in central Europe, and limestone beads and the corresponding 'specialist drill' are evidence of the existence of a specialized jewellery industry. The 111 discovery sites span the entire Alpine area and can be named in all the languages spoken there: 'Palafittes' or 'Palafitte' in French and Italian, 'Kolsica' in Slovenian and 'Pfahlbauten' in German.