About 2 km north of Villaperuccio stands the impressive prehistoric necropolis of Montessu, integrated into a geomorphological, environmental and naturalistic context. The burial ground dates back to recent Neolithic times (4300 – 4000 B.C.) and is part of the cultural heritage of San Michele di Ozieri, with some later additions from the sub-Ozieri phase used up until the Ancient Bronze Age (2200 – 1800 B.C.).
The 35 domus de janas have three kinds of grave: multicellular, longitudinal, with corridor entry and oven-type with vertical access. Various tombs have graffiti decorations and bas relief. These include spirals, concentric symbols, fake doors and bull protomes. The sanctuary-tombs are particularly interesting. These are monumental tombs featuring entrances standing around 2 metres tall, annexes inserted into the rock and megalithic formations for the funeral wake.
The inspections carried out in the 1970s by Prof. E. Atzeni highlight the classic repertoire of the late neolithic culture of San Michele di Ozieri: pyxides, tripods, flat-bottom cups and, especially, a terracotta fragmented female statue with no head.
The hypogeums, arranged in groups on crags of two natural adjoining amphitheatres, contribute to creating an atmosphere heavy with sacredness and beauty which probably had a strong effect on the neolithic people. The same sensation can still be experienced today by the modern visitor.
