- Departamento de Prehistoria y Arqueología
Universidad de Sevilla
María de Padilla s/n. 41004. Sevilla. Spain - +34 954551415
- Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, and 68 moreMegaliths (Archaeology), Social Organisation (Archaeology), Social Complexity, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Copper age, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of death and burial, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, State Formation, Landscape Archaeology, Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Perdigões, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), Spanish archaeology, Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Prehistoric Settlement, Prehistoric Art, Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Early State Formation, The archaeology of state formation, Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), Chiefdoms (Archaeology), Antequera (Archaeology), Gestión del Patrimonio Cultural en Andalucía, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Paleoseismology (Earth Sciences), Archaeoseismology, Social Inequality (Anthropology), Archaeological GIS, Prehistory, Mediterranean prehistory, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Prehistoria, Archaeology of the Spanish Civil War, Neolithic Water Wells, Bioarchaeology, Bioanthropology, Paleodemography, Funerary Archaeology, Funerary Practices, Archaeological Science, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Osteoarchaeology, Mortuary archaeology, Mortuary Practices, History, Archaeology of Mediterranean Trade, History of Writing Systems, Material Culture Studies, Arqueología del Paisaje, Paisaje, Geografia, Cultural Memory, Burial Customs, Arqueología, 4.2 ka BP event, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Cultural Anthropology, Anthropology, Ivory Carving, Anthropology of Gender, Gender Archaeology, Archaeology of Gender, Social and Cultural Anthropology, 14C dating (Archaeology), Mediterranean archaeology, and Social Stratification and Inequalityedit
- I am a Full Professor in Prehistory at the University of Sevilla (Spain). I started my academic career as a pre-docto... moreI am a Full Professor in Prehistory at the University of Sevilla (Spain). I started my academic career as a pre-doctoral research fellow at the same university (1991-1996) and then I worked as a European Commission Marie Curie Program post-doctoral research fellow at the University of Southampton, UK (1997-1998), and as a Lecturer in Archaeology at the University of Bradford, UK (1999-2000). Since 2000 I have been employed at the University of Sevilla, where I now coordinate the ATLAS Research Group (HUM-694) that currently includes 10 doctors and various predoctoral researchers. In the last 20 years have carried out short research stays and given guest talks and taught courses in Lisbon (Portugal), Aarhus (Denmark), Iowa (USA), London, Southampton and Cambridge (UK), Vienna (Austria), Tübingen and Kiel (Germany) as well as Argentina and Uruguay. My current research focuses on a number of themes, including social inequality, social complexity, funerary practices and megalithic monuments and landscapes among the societies of Late Prehistoric Iberia. Over the years I have also become interested in issues such as rare rocks and exotic materials, radiocarbon chronology and carved stelae of the Bronze age and Iron Age. On these topics I have carried out fieldwork in the southern Spanish provinces of Badajoz, Córdoba, Huelva, Seville and Málaga and published and edited various books and numerous papers in journals and collaborations in edited books. I currently coordinate research projects dealing with two major sites of Iberian Late Prehistory: the UNESCO World Heritage List site of Antequera (Málaga), where we have recently studied the biography of Menga, the largest megalithic monument of Iberia and the Copper Age mega-site of Valencina de la Concepción-Castilleja de Guzmán (Seville), where we have recently completed a full multidisciplinary study of Montelirio, a remarkable tholos-type megalithic tomb.edit
English: This book, stemming from the Project "Nature, Society and Monumentality: High Resolution Archaeological Investigations of the Antequera Megalithic Landscape (MEGA)" developed by the University of Seville between 2014 and 2017,... more
English: This book, stemming from the Project "Nature, Society and Monumentality: High Resolution Archaeological Investigations of the Antequera Megalithic Landscape (MEGA)" developed by the University of Seville between 2014 and 2017, represents a major leap forward towards a renewed research paradigm of the great prehistoric site of Antequera. A 'high resolution' approach is applied to the archaeological record of the Menga dolmen, through the study of the excavations carried out in the spring of 2005. During the last two years, 25 specialists in numerous fields of scientific research, including morphological analysis of ceramic and lithic materials, traceology, geoarchaeology, sedimentology, archaeometallurgy, numismatics, bioarchaeology (faunal and human remains) and radiocarbon dating, have applied a variety of analytical techniques to study the evidence recorded in said excavation. As a result, we obtain a first image of the extraordinary biography of Menga, one of the most remarkable megalithic monuments in the world. Built in the first half of the 4th millennium cal BC, used as a temple in the Late Prehistory and as burial ground (and possible also as a ritual space) in Antiquity and the Middle Ages, Menga witnessed an intense activity in Modern and Contemporary History as well. Throughout this book, we reveal surprising discoveries and unexpected details of that long biography, a reflection of almost 6000 years of human experience in which Menga has been a first-order social and cultural reference.
Español: Esta obra, derivada del Proyecto “Naturaleza, Sociedad y Monumentalidad:
Investigaciones Arqueológicas de Alta Resolución del Paisaje Megalítico de Antequera (MEGA)” desarrollado por la Universidad de Sevilla dentro del Plan Nacional I+D del Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad entre 2014 y 2017, supone un importante salto adelante para dar inicio a una etapa de investigaciones renovadas en el gran sitio prehistórico antequerano. Esta monografía constituye la primera aproximación de ‘alta resolución’ al registro arqueológico del dolmen de Menga, realizada a partir del estudio de las excavaciones llevadas a cabo en la primavera de 2005. A este estudio han contribuido 25 especialistas en muy diversos campos de la investigación científica
que a lo largo de dos años han aplicado técnicas de análisis que van desde los estudios de morfología de materiales cerámicos y líticos o la numismática, hasta la geoarqueología, la sedimentología, la arqueometalurgia, la bioarqueología (en sus dos variantes, faunística y antropológica), la datación radiocarbónica o la traceología. Como resultado de este estudio se obtiene una primera imagen de la extraordinaria biografía del dolmen de Menga, uno de los monumentos megalíticos más singulares del mundo. Construido en la primera mitad del IV milenio Antes de Nuestra Era, y utilizado como templo en la Prehistoria Reciente y espacio funerario en la Antigüedad y el Medievo, Menga conoció también una intensa actividad en las épocas moderna y contemporánea. A lo largo de esta obra se revelan descubrimientos y detalles sorprendentes de esa larga biografía, resumen y reflejo de casi 6000 años de experiencia humana en los que Menga ha sido un referente social y cultural de primer orden.
Español: Esta obra, derivada del Proyecto “Naturaleza, Sociedad y Monumentalidad:
Investigaciones Arqueológicas de Alta Resolución del Paisaje Megalítico de Antequera (MEGA)” desarrollado por la Universidad de Sevilla dentro del Plan Nacional I+D del Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad entre 2014 y 2017, supone un importante salto adelante para dar inicio a una etapa de investigaciones renovadas en el gran sitio prehistórico antequerano. Esta monografía constituye la primera aproximación de ‘alta resolución’ al registro arqueológico del dolmen de Menga, realizada a partir del estudio de las excavaciones llevadas a cabo en la primavera de 2005. A este estudio han contribuido 25 especialistas en muy diversos campos de la investigación científica
que a lo largo de dos años han aplicado técnicas de análisis que van desde los estudios de morfología de materiales cerámicos y líticos o la numismática, hasta la geoarqueología, la sedimentología, la arqueometalurgia, la bioarqueología (en sus dos variantes, faunística y antropológica), la datación radiocarbónica o la traceología. Como resultado de este estudio se obtiene una primera imagen de la extraordinaria biografía del dolmen de Menga, uno de los monumentos megalíticos más singulares del mundo. Construido en la primera mitad del IV milenio Antes de Nuestra Era, y utilizado como templo en la Prehistoria Reciente y espacio funerario en la Antigüedad y el Medievo, Menga conoció también una intensa actividad en las épocas moderna y contemporánea. A lo largo de esta obra se revelan descubrimientos y detalles sorprendentes de esa larga biografía, resumen y reflejo de casi 6000 años de experiencia humana en los que Menga ha sido un referente social y cultural de primer orden.
Research Interests: History, Ancient History, Modern History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, and 15 moreAnthropology, Medieval History, Geoarchaeology, History of Religion, Mediterranean prehistory, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Numismatics, Neolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, and Anthropology of Religion
English: This volume presents the results of the scientific study of the great Copper Age megalithic tomb of Montelirio (Castilleja de Guzmán, Sevilla, Spain), which was excavated between 2007 and 2010. The comprehensive study carried out... more
English: This volume presents the results of the scientific study of the great Copper Age megalithic tomb of Montelirio (Castilleja de Guzmán, Sevilla, Spain), which was excavated between 2007 and 2010. The comprehensive study carried out in the last ten years by 45 specialists from 16 institutions of 5 different countries (Germany, New Zealand, Spain, United Kingdom and USA) includes the deployment of some of the most cutting edge methods and techniques currently available to modern Archaeology. Altogether, the results reveal one of the most fascinating and yet enigmatic prehistoric monuments of the European continent, in which a predominantly female human contingent, accompanied by a remarkable set of grave goods, was buried. Some of the artefacts found in this tomb are unparallaled, as is the case with the sophisticated garnments made with thousands or perforated beads of stone and shell and decorated with ivory and amber. The countless details revealed by the meticulous research undertaken bring us close, with a detail previously unknown, to the life ways of Iberian Copper Age societies (c. 3200-2300 cal BC), particularly in what concerns their technology, craftsmanship, patterns of contact and exchange, social organisation and world views. With this study, Montelirio joins the small group of ‘classic” megalithic monuments of Andalusian, Iberian and European Late Prehistory while at the same time confirms the social and cultural eclosion that took place in the lower Guadalquivir valley in the third millennium BC, a true departure point por the genesis of modern-day Sevilla.
Español: En esta obra se presentan los resultados del estudio científico de la gran tumba megalítica de Montelirio (Castilleja de Guzmán, Sevilla), excavada entre 2007 y 2010. La exhaustiva investigación realizada durante casi 10 años, en la que han participado 45 especialistas de 16 universidades y centros de investigación de cinco países distintos (Alemania, España, Estados Unidos de América, Nueva Zelanda y Reino Unido) ha incluido el despliegue de algunos de los métodos y técnicas de investigación más a la vanguardia de la moderna Arqueología. En conjunto, los resultados nos descubren uno de los monumentos prehistóricos más fascinantes y a la vez enigmáticos del continente europeo, en el que se enterró un colectivo mayoritariamente femenino de personas acompañadas de unos ajuares sin parangón que incluyen objetos inéditos a nivel mundial, como las sofisticadas túnicas hechas con decenas de miles de cuentas perforadas y ornamentos de concha, marfil y ámbar. Los innumerables pormenores revelados por la cuidadosa investigación llevada a cabo nos acercan con un detalle previamente desconocido a la forma de vida de las sociedades de la Edad del Cobre (c. 3200-2300 antes de nuestra era), y en particular a su tecnología, artesanía, pautas de contacto e intercambio, organización social y cosmovisión. Con este estudio, Montelirio se une al selecto grupo de monumentos megalíticos ‘clásicos’ de la Prehistoria Reciente andaluza, ibérica y europea, confirmando la eclosión cultural y social que en el tercer milenio antes de nuestra era conoció el bajo valle del Guadalquivir, verdadera génesis del proceso de desarrollo de la ciudad de Sevilla.
Español: En esta obra se presentan los resultados del estudio científico de la gran tumba megalítica de Montelirio (Castilleja de Guzmán, Sevilla), excavada entre 2007 y 2010. La exhaustiva investigación realizada durante casi 10 años, en la que han participado 45 especialistas de 16 universidades y centros de investigación de cinco países distintos (Alemania, España, Estados Unidos de América, Nueva Zelanda y Reino Unido) ha incluido el despliegue de algunos de los métodos y técnicas de investigación más a la vanguardia de la moderna Arqueología. En conjunto, los resultados nos descubren uno de los monumentos prehistóricos más fascinantes y a la vez enigmáticos del continente europeo, en el que se enterró un colectivo mayoritariamente femenino de personas acompañadas de unos ajuares sin parangón que incluyen objetos inéditos a nivel mundial, como las sofisticadas túnicas hechas con decenas de miles de cuentas perforadas y ornamentos de concha, marfil y ámbar. Los innumerables pormenores revelados por la cuidadosa investigación llevada a cabo nos acercan con un detalle previamente desconocido a la forma de vida de las sociedades de la Edad del Cobre (c. 3200-2300 antes de nuestra era), y en particular a su tecnología, artesanía, pautas de contacto e intercambio, organización social y cosmovisión. Con este estudio, Montelirio se une al selecto grupo de monumentos megalíticos ‘clásicos’ de la Prehistoria Reciente andaluza, ibérica y europea, confirmando la eclosión cultural y social que en el tercer milenio antes de nuestra era conoció el bajo valle del Guadalquivir, verdadera génesis del proceso de desarrollo de la ciudad de Sevilla.
Research Interests: History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Art History, and 15 moreFunerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, History of Art, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Funerary Practices, Megalithic Art, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), and History of Architecture
This volume explores the pervasive influence exerted by some prehistoric monuments on European social life over thousands of years, and reveals how they acted as nodes linking people through time, possessing huge ideological and political... more
This volume explores the pervasive influence exerted by some prehistoric monuments on European social life over thousands of years, and reveals how they acted as nodes linking people through time, possessing huge ideological and political significance. Through the advancement of theoretical approaches and scientific methods, archaeologists have been able to investigate how some of these monuments provided resources to negotiate memories, identities, power,and social relations throughout European history. The essays in this collection examine the life-histories of carefully chosen megalithic monuments, stelae and statue-menhirs, and rock art sites of various European and Mediterranean regions during Iron Age, Roman, and Medieval times. By focusing on the concrete interaction between people, monuments, and places, the volume offers an innovative outlook on a variety of debated issues. Prominent among these is the role of ancient remains in the creation, institutionalization, contestation, and negotiation of social identities and memories, as well as their relationship with political ideology in early historic European societies. By contributing to current theoretical debates on materiality, landscape, and place-making, The Lives of Prehistoric Monuments in Iron Age, Roman, and Medieval Europe seeks to overcome disciplinary boundaries between prehistory and history, and highlight the long-term, genealogical nature of our engagement with the world.
Contents
PART I: INTRODUCTION
1.
The Lives of Prehistoric Monuments in Europe: An Introduction
Marta Díaz-Guardamino, Leonardo García Sanjuán and David Wheatley
2.
Before the Standing Stones: From Land Forms to Religious Attitudes and Monumentality
Joyce E. Salisbury
PART II: CASE STUDIES
3.
Kings’ Jelling: Monuments with Outstanding Biographies in the Heart of Denmark
Steen Hvass
4.
Icons of Antiquity: Remaking Megalithic Monuments in Ireland
Gabriel Cooney
5.
Beowulf and Archaeology: Megaliths Imagined and Encountered in Early Medieval Europe
Howard Williams
6.
Myth, Memento and Memory: Avebury (Wiltshire, England)
David Wheatley
7.
Les Pierres de Memoire. The Life History of two Statue-Menhirs from Guernsey, Channel Islands
Heather Sebire
8.
Back and Forward: Neolithic Standing Stones and Iron Age Stelae in French Brittany
Luc Laporte, Marie-Yvane Daire, Gwenolé Kerdivel and Elías López-Romero
9.
Enduring Past: Megalithic Tombs of Brittany and the Roman Occupation in Western France
Mara Vejby
10.
The Outstanding Biographies of Prehistoric Monuments in Iron Age, Roman and Medieval Spain
Leonardo García Sanjuán and Marta Díaz-Guardamino
11.
Megaliths and Holy Places in the Genesis of the Kingdom of Asturias (North of Spain, 718-910 AD)
Miguel Ángel de Blas Cortina
12.
Life and Death of Copper Age Monoliths at Ossimo Anvòia (Val Camonica, Italian Central Alps), 3000 BC–AD 1950
Francesco Fedele
13.
Biography of a Hill – Novi Pazar in South Western Serbia
Staša Babić
14.
What Happens When Tombs Die? The Historical Appropriation of the Cretan Bronze Age Cemeteries
Borja Legarra Herrero
15.
Roman Dolmens? The Megalithic Necropolises of Eastern Maghreb Revisited
Joan Sanmartí, Nabil Kallala, Rafel Jornet, M. Carme Belarte, Joan Canela, Sarhane Chérif, Jordi Campillo, David Montanero, Xavier Bermúdez, Thaïs Fadrique, Víctor Revilla, Joan Ramon and Moncef Ben Moussa
PART III: RECAPITULATION AND CONCLUSIONS
16.
The Plot against the Past: Reuse and Modification of Ancient Mortuary Monuments as Persuasive Efforts of Appropriation
Estella Weiss-Krejci
17.
Piercing together a Past
Richard Bradley
Contents
PART I: INTRODUCTION
1.
The Lives of Prehistoric Monuments in Europe: An Introduction
Marta Díaz-Guardamino, Leonardo García Sanjuán and David Wheatley
2.
Before the Standing Stones: From Land Forms to Religious Attitudes and Monumentality
Joyce E. Salisbury
PART II: CASE STUDIES
3.
Kings’ Jelling: Monuments with Outstanding Biographies in the Heart of Denmark
Steen Hvass
4.
Icons of Antiquity: Remaking Megalithic Monuments in Ireland
Gabriel Cooney
5.
Beowulf and Archaeology: Megaliths Imagined and Encountered in Early Medieval Europe
Howard Williams
6.
Myth, Memento and Memory: Avebury (Wiltshire, England)
David Wheatley
7.
Les Pierres de Memoire. The Life History of two Statue-Menhirs from Guernsey, Channel Islands
Heather Sebire
8.
Back and Forward: Neolithic Standing Stones and Iron Age Stelae in French Brittany
Luc Laporte, Marie-Yvane Daire, Gwenolé Kerdivel and Elías López-Romero
9.
Enduring Past: Megalithic Tombs of Brittany and the Roman Occupation in Western France
Mara Vejby
10.
The Outstanding Biographies of Prehistoric Monuments in Iron Age, Roman and Medieval Spain
Leonardo García Sanjuán and Marta Díaz-Guardamino
11.
Megaliths and Holy Places in the Genesis of the Kingdom of Asturias (North of Spain, 718-910 AD)
Miguel Ángel de Blas Cortina
12.
Life and Death of Copper Age Monoliths at Ossimo Anvòia (Val Camonica, Italian Central Alps), 3000 BC–AD 1950
Francesco Fedele
13.
Biography of a Hill – Novi Pazar in South Western Serbia
Staša Babić
14.
What Happens When Tombs Die? The Historical Appropriation of the Cretan Bronze Age Cemeteries
Borja Legarra Herrero
15.
Roman Dolmens? The Megalithic Necropolises of Eastern Maghreb Revisited
Joan Sanmartí, Nabil Kallala, Rafel Jornet, M. Carme Belarte, Joan Canela, Sarhane Chérif, Jordi Campillo, David Montanero, Xavier Bermúdez, Thaïs Fadrique, Víctor Revilla, Joan Ramon and Moncef Ben Moussa
PART III: RECAPITULATION AND CONCLUSIONS
16.
The Plot against the Past: Reuse and Modification of Ancient Mortuary Monuments as Persuasive Efforts of Appropriation
Estella Weiss-Krejci
17.
Piercing together a Past
Richard Bradley
Research Interests: Religion, History, Ancient History, European History, Archaeology, and 40 morePrehistoric Archaeology, Roman History, Art History, Medieval History, History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Medieval Studies, Mediterranean prehistory, Rock Art (Archaeology), Roman Religion, Early Medieval Archaeology, Medieval Archaeology, Ancient Religion, Late Antiquity, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Cultural Memory, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Collective Memory, History of Art, Megalithic Monuments, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Medieval Art, Neolithic Europe, Iron Age (Archaeology), Mediterranean archaeology, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Antiquity, Iron Age, History of architecture, Rock Art, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Prehistoric Archeology, Historia del Arte, Late Bronze Age, Cultural Biography of Things, Neolithic and Chalcolithic Archaeology, EarlyMedieval Archaeology, and Roman Archaeology
(2013) El Asentamiento Prehistórico de Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla): Investigación y Tutela en el 150 Aniversario del Descubrimiento de La Pastora [The Prehistoric Settlement of Valencina (Sevilla): Research and Protection in the 150th Anniversary of La Pastora's Discovery] [FULL VOLUME]more
English: Since the discovery in 1860 of La Pastora, one of the most beautiful and outstanding megalithic constructions of Iberia, the Copper Age and Bronze Age site of Valencina de la Concepción – Castilleja de Guzmán has provided an... more
English: Since the discovery in 1860 of La Pastora, one of the most beautiful and outstanding megalithic constructions of Iberia, the Copper Age and Bronze Age site of Valencina de la Concepción – Castilleja de Guzmán has provided an unceasing series of archaeological finds of the utmost significance. Today, a hundred and fifty years after the earliest discoveries, this volume offers an up-to-date and comprehensive review of the research carried out at this site, which underlines, first and foremost, its importance as a scientific and cultural resource. Among the contributions to this volume the reader will find some of the keys to the human occupation of the lower Guadalquivir basin 5000 years ago, the process of social aggregation that gave way to the formation of the city of Seville itself. In addition, this book reflects some of the current discussions that dominate today’s scientific agenda on Iberian Copper Age (c. 3200-2200 cal BC), a period of fascinating social and cultural dynamism that laid the basis for the consolidation of social ranking, long-distance contact and exchange, as well as metallurgy and productive specialization.
Español: Desde que en 1860 se produjera el descubrimiento de La Pastora, una de las construcciones megalíticas más bellas y singulares de España, el yacimiento de la Edad del Cobre y de la Edad del Bronce de Valencina de la Concepción – Castilleja de Guzmán no ha cesado de deparar hallazgos arqueológicos de la mayor significación. Hoy, 150 años después de los primeros descubrimientos, este volumen ofrece una puesta al día de las investigaciones que están revelando la extraordinaria importancia de este yacimiento como recurso científico y patrimonial. Entre las colaboraciones de esta obra el lector encontrará algunas de las claves de la ocupación de la desembocadura del río Guadalquivir hace 5000 años: el proceso de agregación humana que representa el origen de la misma ciudad de Sevilla. Igualmente, en las páginas de este libro encuentra reflejo el debate que en la actualidad preside el estudio de la Edad del Cobre (c. 3200-2200 antes de nuestra era), un periodo de apasionante dinamismo social y cultural en el que se consolidaron las bases de la jerarquización social, las relaciones comerciales a larga distancia, la metalurgia y la especialización productiva.
Español: Desde que en 1860 se produjera el descubrimiento de La Pastora, una de las construcciones megalíticas más bellas y singulares de España, el yacimiento de la Edad del Cobre y de la Edad del Bronce de Valencina de la Concepción – Castilleja de Guzmán no ha cesado de deparar hallazgos arqueológicos de la mayor significación. Hoy, 150 años después de los primeros descubrimientos, este volumen ofrece una puesta al día de las investigaciones que están revelando la extraordinaria importancia de este yacimiento como recurso científico y patrimonial. Entre las colaboraciones de esta obra el lector encontrará algunas de las claves de la ocupación de la desembocadura del río Guadalquivir hace 5000 años: el proceso de agregación humana que representa el origen de la misma ciudad de Sevilla. Igualmente, en las páginas de este libro encuentra reflejo el debate que en la actualidad preside el estudio de la Edad del Cobre (c. 3200-2200 antes de nuestra era), un periodo de apasionante dinamismo social y cultural en el que se consolidaron las bases de la jerarquización social, las relaciones comerciales a larga distancia, la metalurgia y la especialización productiva.
Research Interests: Prehistoric Archaeology, Bioarchaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Settlement Patterns, Funerary Archaeology, and 14 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Prehistoric Settlement, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
The origin and early development of social stratification is essentially an archaeological problem. The impressive advance of archaeological research has revealed that, first and foremost, the pre-eminence of stratified or class society... more
The origin and early development of social stratification is essentially an archaeological problem. The impressive advance of archaeological research has revealed that, first and foremost, the pre-eminence of stratified or class society in today’s world is the result of a long social struggle. This volume advances the archaeological study of social organisation in Prehistory, and more specifically the rise of social complexity in European Prehistory. Within the wider context of world Prehistory, in the last 30 years the subject of early social stratification and state formation has been a key subject on interest in Iberian Prehistory. This book illustrates the differing forms of resistances, the interplay between change and continuity, the multiple paths to and from social complexity, and the ‘failures’ of states to form in Prehistory. It also engages with broader questions, such as: when did social stratification appear in western European Prehistory? What factors contributed to its emergence and consolidation? What are the relationships between the notions of social complexity, social inequality, social stratification and statehood? And what are the archaeological indicators for the empirical analysis of these issues? Focusing on Iberia, but with a permanent connection to the wider geographical framework, this book presents, for the first time, a chronologically comprehensive, up-to-date approach to the issue of state formation in prehistoric Iberia.
Research Interests: History, Economic History, Sociology, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, and 97 moreAnthropology, Political Economy, Art History, Social Anthropology, Political Theory, Mediterranean prehistory, Political Anthropology, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Rock Art (Archaeology), Political Science, Settlement Patterns, State Formation, Political History, Social Stratification, State Theory, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Archaeology, Aegean Bronze Age (Bronze Age Archaeology), History of Art, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Social Organisation (Archaeology), Social History, Prehistoric Settlement, Aegean Prehistory (Archaeology), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Chiefdoms (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Cultural Anthropology, Anthropology of the State, Social Inequality (Anthropology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Late Iron Age (Archaeology), Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Iron Age (Archaeology), Eurasian Prehistory, Middle Bronze Age, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Arqueología, Historia Social, Prehistoric Rock Art, Neolithic, Iron Age, Origins of the State, Social Complexity, Social Inequality, Primitive Accumulation, Rock Art, Historia, Aegean Prehistory, Early Iron Age, Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age, Iron Age archaeology, Political Economy in Chiefdom-Level Societies, Prehistoric Archeology, Antropología cultural, Ancient Historry, Historia del Arte, Late Bronze Age, Antropología Social, Copper age, Prehistoria, Antropología, Chalcolithic, Chiefdoms, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Historia Cultural, Neolítico, Archaeology Iberian Prehistory Iron Age, Hierarchically Complex Social Systems, Rock art research, Primitive warfare, European Neolithic, Copper Age, Bronze Age, Social Hierarchies, Landscape and Rock Art, Big-men, Prehistoria Reciente, Big Men, Social Ranking, Political Economy and History, Social Stratification and Inequality, Relationship between social institutions and social stratification, Social Hierarchy in Bronze Age Tribes, Theory of the State, Sociology of the State, Social Hierarchy In the Bronze Age, Cultural and Social Stratification, and Early Class Society
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Landscape Archaeology, Archaeological Method & Theory, Archaeological GIS, and 7 moreGeo-spatial analysis with GIS and GPS, Arqueología, Geografia, Arqueología del Paisaje, Sistemas de Información Geografica, Sistemas de Información Geográfica en Arqueología, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
"This book presents the papers and discussions held at the second meeting of the European Megalithic Studies Group (Seville, Spain, November 2008). This is therefore a cooperative, international book that brings together leading... more
"This book presents the papers and discussions held at the second meeting of the European Megalithic Studies Group (Seville, Spain, November 2008). This is therefore a cooperative, international book that brings together leading specialists from several European countries, including France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Portugal, Sweden, and Spain. This volume revolves around two crucial aspects of recent research on prehistoric monuments: time (chronology) and matter (raw materials as used in both architecture and artefacts). Both topics have generated much discussion in recent years and form one of the main cutting edges of current research on prehistoric monuments. These two main themes have recently witnessed major advances thanks to the application of new scientific techniques to old and new archaeological problems. For the chronology theme, specific issues include the origin of prehistoric monuments, the limitations and advantages of newly available high-resolution dating techniques (such as AMS radiocarbon analysis of pigments, thermoluminiscence and OSL), and patterns of utilisation, re-utilisation and abandonment. For rare rocks, some of the specific issues covered by this book are rock selection, the frequency and type of rare materials (variscite, quartz, amber, etc.), trade and exchange, the manipulation of raw materials, the symbolic catchment of geological landscapes, and the sourcing of stones. The idea here is to explore the value, function and symbolism of the materials in their prehistoric context, their placement and positioning in relation to funerary structures (architecture) and human remains (individuals), and the evidence they provide for interregional interaction."
Research Interests: Religion, History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geology, and 100 moreArt History, Geoarchaeology, History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, History and Memory, Archaeological Method & Theory, Funerary Archaeology, Quaternary Geology, Ancient Religion, Neolithic Archaeology, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Archaeometry, Bronze Age Archaeology, Collective Memory, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Landscapes in prehistory, Flint (Archaeology), Prehistoric Settlement, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), British Prehistory (Archaeology), Public Memory, Lithic Technology, Radiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), OSL dating, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Lithics, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Neolithic flint procurement, Middle Bronze Age, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Lithic Technology (Archaeology), Luminescence (OSL), Funerary Architecture, Prehistoric Rock Art, Neolithic, History of architecture, Memory, Oral History and Memory, Lithic Industries, Archaeology of burials, Funerary Practices, Flint Tools, Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age, Chronology, Flint Technology, Prehistoric Archeology, Funeral Archaeology, Late Bronze Age, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Prehistoria, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Radiocarbon Dating, Lithic Analysis, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Archaeology of death and burial, British prehistory, Monumentality, Geoarchaeology and Paleoenvironmental Reconstructions, Lithic Raw Material Sourcing, Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), Burial Customs, Megalithic Technology, Monuments, Flint, Stonehenge, Iberian prehistory, Funeral Monuments, Megaliths, Archaeology Iberian Prehistory Iron Age, Radiocarbon Dates, Prehistory Iberian Peninsula, Quaternary Geoarchaeology, Radiocarbon Chronology, Funeral Rites, Megalithic tombs, Archaeology of the Funeral Ritual, The Sociology of Death, Dying and Funerals, Variscita, Lithic Resources, Periodisation, and Anthropology of Religion
(2011) El Asentamiento de El Trastejón (Huelva). Investigaciones en el Marco de los Procesos Sociales y Culturales de la Edad del Bronce en el Suroeste de la Península Ibérica [El Trastejón: Investigations In the Social and Cultural Processes of the Bronze Age in South-West Iberia] [FULL VOLUME]more
ENGLISH: "This volume presents the results of the Project 'Sierra de Huelva: Analysis and Definition of the Cultural Processes of the Second Millennium BC in the Iberian South-West' (1988-1993), funded by General Directorate of Cultural... more
ENGLISH: "This volume presents the results of the Project 'Sierra de Huelva: Analysis and Definition of the Cultural Processes of the Second Millennium BC in the Iberian South-West' (1988-1993), funded by General Directorate of Cultural Properties of the Andalusian Government. The investigations were largely focused on the sites of El Trastejón and La Papúa, two hilltop settlements with large stone platforms, terraces and walls - the first Bronze Age settlements ever to be studied in the Western Sierra Morena region .This scientific monograph includes the results of the surface survey of the surrounding area and description of the excavation records as well as archaeometallurgical, pottery and pollen analysis, radiocarbon dating and spatial analysis."
SPANISH: "Esta obra presenta los resultados del Proyecto General de Investigación "Sierra de Huelva: análisis y definición de los procesos culturales del II milenio a.C en el Suroeste peninsular" aprobado y financiado por la Dirección General de Bienes Culturales de la Consejería de Cultura de la Junta de Andalucía, y que tuvo lugar entre 1988 y 1993. Las investigaciones han tenido como referente los sitios de El Trastejón y La Papúa, primeros asentamientos de la Edad del Bronce estudiado en la Sierra de Huelva. Las excavaciones practicadas han revelado sendos asentamientos instalados en altura sobre plataformas y terrazas de piedra construidas sobre las laderas. El estudio incluye los resultados relativos a las prospecciones, excavaciones y análisis arqueometalúrgicos, análisis ceramológico, polínico, radiocarbónico y análisis territorial del poblamiento en la Sierra de Huelva durante la Edad del Bronce."
SPANISH: "Esta obra presenta los resultados del Proyecto General de Investigación "Sierra de Huelva: análisis y definición de los procesos culturales del II milenio a.C en el Suroeste peninsular" aprobado y financiado por la Dirección General de Bienes Culturales de la Consejería de Cultura de la Junta de Andalucía, y que tuvo lugar entre 1988 y 1993. Las investigaciones han tenido como referente los sitios de El Trastejón y La Papúa, primeros asentamientos de la Edad del Bronce estudiado en la Sierra de Huelva. Las excavaciones practicadas han revelado sendos asentamientos instalados en altura sobre plataformas y terrazas de piedra construidas sobre las laderas. El estudio incluye los resultados relativos a las prospecciones, excavaciones y análisis arqueometalúrgicos, análisis ceramológico, polínico, radiocarbónico y análisis territorial del poblamiento en la Sierra de Huelva durante la Edad del Bronce."
Research Interests: Prehistoric Archaeology, Spatial Analysis, Spatial Modeling, Pottery (Archaeology), Landscape Archaeology, and 48 moreMediterranean prehistory, Settlement Patterns, Cultural Landscapes, Archaeological GIS, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Archaeometry, Bronze Age Archaeology, Landscapes in prehistory, Prehistoric Settlement, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Archaeometallurgy, Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Fortified Settlements (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Eurasian Prehistory, Mediterranean archaeology, Middle Bronze Age, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Bronze And Iron Age In Mediterrarranean (Archaeology), Prehistory, Settlement archaeology, History of architecture, Territoriality, Ancient Metallurgy, Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age, Late Bronze Age, Early Iron Age, Copper extraction and production, Geografia, Edad Del Bronce, Late Bronze Age, Prehistoria, Geografía Humana, Archaeometallurgy, Mineralogy, Archaeometry, Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), Territorio, Ancient Mining and Metallurgy, Archaeology Iberian Prehistory Iron Age, Prehistoria, Edad del Bronce, Prehistoria Reciente, Settlement & Landscape research, Archaeometric analysis of pottery, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Análisis Espacial En Arqueología
The megalithic phenomenon is one of the most exciting subjects of study in prehistory. The practice of monumentalising places of special significance by erecting large stones started during the Neolithic period, approximately 10.000 years... more
The megalithic phenomenon is one of the most exciting subjects of study in prehistory. The practice of monumentalising places of special significance by erecting large stones started during the Neolithic period, approximately 10.000 years ago. On time, it acquired such a social and ideological depth that it became one of the most geographically and temporally widespread cultural phenomena ever known in Europe. In Andalusia, megalithic sites and landscapes express themselves with great richness and diversity, representing an exceptional source of scientific information for our understanding of our forebears’ ways of life, as well as a unique and beautiful historical legacy. This book combines the contributions of various university professors, who bring us up to date with their research, with excellent photographic illustrations and, for the first time, reflects the spread of this cultural phenomenon throughout Andalusia. It is suitable for both those who wish to deepen their knowledge of this professional specialisation and those who seek the pleasure of a satisfied interest.
Research Interests: Religion, Comparative Religion, History, Ancient History, Archaeology, and 136 morePrehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Art History, Historical Archaeology, Art, Architecture, History of Religion, Death, Death Studies, Material Culture Studies, Landscape Archaeology, Material culture of religion, Mediterranean prehistory, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Rock Art (Archaeology), History and Memory, Death & Dying (Thanatology), Vernacular Architecture, Architectural History, Archaeology of Religion, Funerary Archaeology, History of Sculpture, History of Religions, Ancient Religion, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Rock Art management & Awareness, Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Commemoration and Memory, Sculpture, Collective Memory, History of Art, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Landscapes in prehistory, Archaeology of Architecture, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Ancient myth and religion, Social History of Art, Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Cultural Anthropology, Burial Practices (Archaeology), - Architecture history, Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, Eurasian Prehistory, Material Culture, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Prehistoric Rock Art, Neolithic, History of Archaeology, History of architecture, Memory, Figurines, Rock Art, Prehistoric Figurines, Oral History and Memory, Historia, Historia de la Arquitectura, Remembrance, Death and Dying, Mourning and Remembrance, Archaeology of burials, Arte Rupestre, Anthropomorphic Figurines, Historia del Arte, Funeral Archaeology, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Prehistoria, Cultura Material, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, History of Art and archaeology, Archaeology of death and burial, Monumentality, Neolithic figurines, Theory and History of Art, Prehistoric monuments and architecture, Burial Customs, History of Art and Architecture, Material Culture & Materiality, História da arte, Monuments, History of Arts, Neolítico, zoomorphic Figurines, Funeral Monuments, Megalitos, Megaliths, Menhir, Archaeology Iberian Prehistory Iron Age, Rock art research, Funerals, Monumentos, Landscape and Rock Art, Funeral Rites, Standing Stones, Menhirs, Statues-Menhirs, Megalithic tombs, Archaeology of the Funeral Ritual, Prehistoria Reciente, The Sociology of Death, Dying and Funerals, Neolithic statue-menhirs and anthropomorphic stelae, Statue menhirs, Antropomorphic Figurines, Monuments & Memorials, Statues menhirs, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), Anthropology of Religion, Culture and death, Roman Archaeology, Schematic Rock Art, History of Architecture, Female Figurines, Funerary Monuments, História Da Arquitetura E Do Urbanismo, Remembrances and Identities, Historia De Las Religiones, Monumentos Megalíticos, Funeral Customs, Collective Remembrance and Memory, Monuments Conservation, Rock Art Study, Monuments and Commemoration, Memory and Remembrance, Monumentos Artisticos, Antequera (Archaeology), and Cultural Remembrance
"This special issue of "Patrimonio Histórico" (Historical Heritage), the bulletin of the Andalusian Historical Heritage Institute, brings together a series of contributions aimed at disseminating the concept of megalithic heritage among... more
"This special issue of "Patrimonio Histórico" (Historical Heritage), the bulletin of the Andalusian Historical Heritage Institute, brings together a series of contributions aimed at disseminating the concept of megalithic heritage among cultural and historical heritage specialists. It provides a general overview of the basic themes involved in today's research of the megalithic phenomenon (section "ideas, theories, problems"), the main methodological innovations the field has experienced in recent years ("sciences, methods"), the public perceptions involved ("perceptions") as well as a series of major megalithic sites of southern Iberia ("sites, interventions, management")."
Research Interests: Religion, History, Ancient History, Sociology of Religion, Archaeology, and 122 moreClassical Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Art History, Historical Archaeology, Art, Medieval History, History of Religion, Death Studies, Ethnography, Landscape Archaeology, Religion and Politics, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Rock Art (Archaeology), History and Memory, Iberian Studies, Phenomenology, Archaeological Method & Theory, Cultural Landscapes, Early Medieval Archaeology, Landscape History, Vernacular Architecture, Architectural History, Medieval Archaeology, Funerary Archaeology, History of Sculpture, Ancient Religion, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Archaeoastronomy, Collective Memory, History of Art, Social History, Prehistoric Settlement, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Memory, British Prehistory (Archaeology), Public Memory, Social History of Art, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Cultural Anthropology, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, Phenomenology of Temporality, Memory and materiality, Irish/British prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Pre Roman Archaeology/Iberian Culture, Arqueología, Heritage interpretation, Antiquity, Prehistoric Rock Art, Neolithic, History of architecture, Memory, Temporality, Rock Art, Oral History and Memory, Historia, Temporality of Landscape, Archaeology of burials, British Archaeology, Belief Systems, Prehistoric Archeology, Archaeoastronomy, Cultural Astronomy, Antropología cultural, Artes, Cultural Landscape, Historia del Arte, Middle Ages, Funeral Archaeology, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Antropología Social, British Neolithic, Ancient History of the Iberian Peninsula/Hispania, Antropología, Conservation and protection of monuments, History of Art and archaeology, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, History of Art and Architecture, Archaeology, ArchaeoAstronomy, Astronomy, Avebury and prehistoric Wessex, Monuments, Classical Antiquity, History of Arts, Funeral Monuments, Megaliths, Dolmens, Conservation and Restoration of Historic Buildings and Monuments, Landscape and Rock Art, Funeral Rites, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, Toponimia, Toponimy, Monuments & Memorials, Anthropology of Religion, Culture and death, Roman Archaeology, History of Architecture, Funerary Monuments, Megalithic Culture, Monuments and Commemoration, British Neolithic Monuments, Avebury and Stonehenge, The Uses of Archaeology, History of Archaeological Theory, Archaeoastronomy In Megalithic Culture, Time and Temporality, and Antequera (Archaeology)
This volume is the product of a one day session organised within the IVth Congresso de Arqueología Peninsular, held in Faro (Portugal) between 14th-19th September 2004. The aim of this session was to discuss the subject matter of... more
This volume is the product of a one day session organised within the IVth Congresso de Arqueología Peninsular, held in Faro (Portugal) between 14th-19th September 2004. The aim of this session was to discuss the subject matter of prehistoric social inequality, a topic that had never before been examined in an Iberian archaeology conference. The time span covered by this book is Late Prehistory, between the second half of the 6th and the beginning of the 1st millennia cal BC (Neolithic, Copper Age and Bronze Age). From a thematic viewpoint, this volume discusses a wide series of issues. These include theoretical problems (like for example, applicability of social evolution taxonomies, centre-periphery relationships, or the sets of factors causing inequalities), empirical problems (critical assessment of the validity of systems of empirical indicators, empirical testing of hypothesis, quality of the available data), as well as interpretative problems (comparative inter-regional and diachronic analyses of the economic, social and ideological process involved in social inequality).
Research Interests: Collective Behavior, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Social Anthropology, and 62 moreSocial Sciences, Death Studies, Mediterranean prehistory, Self-Organization, Political Anthropology, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Rock Art (Archaeology), State Formation, Complex Systems, Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Archaeology, Social Organisation (Archaeology), Social History, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Evolution, Social Change, revolution, and evolution, Inequality (Economics), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Anthropology of Death, Chiefdoms (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Cultural Anthropology, Social Inequality (Anthropology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Bronze Age (Archaeology), The archaeology of state formation, Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Middle Bronze Age, Bronze And Iron Age In Mediterrarranean (Archaeology), Prehistory, Arqueología, Funerary Architecture, Prehistoric Rock Art, Neolithic, Cooperation, Social Complexity, Social Inequality, Rock Art, Early State Formation, Funerary Practices, Bronze Age, Political Economy in Chiefdom-Level Societies, Late Bronze Age, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Evolution of Social Complexity, Copper age, Poverty and Inequality, Chiefdoms, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, Social and Cultural Evolution, Social Stratification and Inequality, Chiefdom, Complex Chiefdoms, Models of Social Evolution, Archaeological Chiefdoms, and Chiefdom Religion
Este libro plantea una síntesis de uno de los temas metodológicos que más desarrollo ha conocido en la Arqueología de los últimos treinta años. Desde que en la década de los 1960 la disciplina arqueológica superase definitivamente el... more
Este libro plantea una síntesis de uno de los temas metodológicos que más desarrollo ha conocido en la Arqueología de los últimos treinta años. Desde que en la década de los 1960 la disciplina arqueológica superase definitivamente el esquema que mantenía al artefacto como objetivo epistemológico principal y a la excavación como único vehículo capaz de alcanzarlo, las teorías, métodos y técnicas de reconocimiento y análisis territorial se han expandido de una forma acelerada. Ello ha creado un ámbito de estudio y práctica profesional de la Arqueología, del cual, a pesar de su pujanza y de la diversidad y complejidad de procedimientos técnicos y nociones teóricas que aparecen implicadas, todavía no se había realizado una verdadera síntesis en lengua española. Este manual ofrece a los jóvenes estudiantes y practicantes de la Arqueología actual un tratamiento riguroso, pero accesible, de los principios aplicados tanto en la detección y caracterización de sitios arqueológicos en el territorio actual (prospección de superficie, prospección geofísica, empleo de imágenes captadas por plataformas aéreas y espaciales, cartografía arqueológica), como en la interpretación de las pautas de aprovechamiento, organización y percepción del territorio que se dieron entre las sociedades del Pasado.
Research Interests: Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Historical Geography, Social Geography, and 13 moreArchaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Spatial Analysis, Spatial Modeling, Landscape Archaeology, Archaeological Method & Theory, Cultural Landscapes, Landscape History, Archaeological GIS, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Prehistoric Settlement, Political Geography, and Spatial Theory
This volume represents a collaborative effort at the European level between research and management agencies dedicated to the study and protection of archaeological heritage. This effort was realised in the multilateral character of the... more
This volume represents a collaborative effort at the European level between research and management agencies dedicated to the study and protection of archaeological heritage. This effort was realised in the multilateral character of the Mapping the Future of the Past workshop hosted by the Andalusian Institute of the Historical Heritage in June 2000, and which drew together thirty-four specialists from nineteen European countries. It is also reflected in the nature of that event and of this publication, involving a British (University of Southampton) and two Spanish (University of Seville and Andalusian Institute of the Historical Heritage) partner institutions. The increasingly international character of scientific research and the growing integration of heritage management procedures within the European Union now require archaeological professionals to daily strive with issues such as language barriers, national and regional disciplinary traditions and legislation and the varying ways Archaeological Resources are administered throughout Europe. These are formidable challenges, but the potential benefit of overcoming them through individual effort, and with colleagues from other countries, is even greater excellence in our discipline. The Mapping the Future of the Past workshop attempted to meet that challenge and we hope that this book adequately reflects our modest contribution towards its goals.
Research Interests: Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Archaeology, Classical Archaeology, and 25 morePrehistoric Archaeology, Cultural Heritage, Heritage Studies, Landscape Archaeology, Medieval Archaeology, European Union, Archaeological GIS, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Cultural Heritage Management, Cultural Resource Management (Archaeology), Archaeological Prospection, Archaeological Heritage Management, Patrimonio Cultural, Geografia, Landscape Planning, Geografía Humana, Arqueología del Paisaje, Paisaje, Patrimonio, Landcape Archaeology, Roman Archaeology, Legislation of Cultural Heritage, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Heritage Legislation, and Cultural heritage legislations
(1999) Los Orígenes de la Estratificación Social. Patrones de Desigualdad en la Edad del Bronce del Suroeste de la Península Ibérica (Sierra Morena Occidental c. 2100-1300 ANE). [The Origins of Social Stratification. Inequality Patterns in the Bronze Age of the Iberian South-West c. 2100-1300 BCE]more
Social evolution is the knowledge domain dealing with the ways in which social inequality has evolved through the past in its deepest diachronic sense. Archaeology has made some of the most successful contributions to the study of social... more
Social evolution is the knowledge domain dealing with the ways in which social inequality has evolved through the past in its deepest diachronic sense. Archaeology has made some of the most successful contributions to the study of social evolution over the last decades. The subject of this book is the archaeological study of social evolution in Late Prehistory, and more specifically the rise of the first forms of higher social ranking and social stratification. In the first part, an attempt is made to develop a middle range theory capable of diagnosing social stratification through the archaeological record, embracing both settlement and funerary evidence. This involves, first, the critical discussion of a number of epistemological assumptions concerning the capacity of archaeology as a discipline to empirically measure social inequalities, and second, it involves the design of a system of archaeological indicators of class society. The second part of this study moves into a set of designated space-time coordinates (case-study) for the empirical testing of the theoretical concepts previously discussed. This case study involves Early and Middle Bronze Age (c. 2100-1300 CAL BC) Southwest Iberia. However, since this study assumes a strong processual vocation, those space-time coordinates are framed within larger referents, namely Copper Age and Late Bronze Age (in temporal terms) and the Iberian Peninsula and the European continent (in geographical terms).
Research Interests: Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Prehistoric Archaeology, Landscape Archaeology, and 37 moreSettlement Patterns, State Formation, Cultural Landscapes, Funerary Archaeology, Social Stratification, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Bronze Age Archaeology, Social Organisation (Archaeology), Prehistoric Settlement, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Evolution, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Social Inequality (Anthropology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), The archaeology of state formation, Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Social Inequalities, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Social Inequality, Early State Formation, Archaeology of burials, Funerary Practices, Bronze Age, Geografia, Late Bronze Age, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Evolution of Social Complexity, Geografía Humana, Arqueología del Paisaje, Archaeology of death and burial, Paisaje, Burial Customs, Geografía Política, Prehistoric Mediterranean Archaeology, and Social Stratification and Inequality
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Soil Science, History of Religion, Death Studies, and 66 moreLandscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Funerary Archaeology, Ancient Religion, Archaeological GIS, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Funeral Practices, Archaeometry, Bronze Age Archaeology, Physical Anthropology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Ceramics (Art History), Social Organisation (Archaeology), Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Radiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistoric weapons, Archaeometallurgy, Ceramics (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Middle Bronze Age, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Arqueología, Funerary Architecture, History of architecture, Archaeology of burials, Funerary Practices, Ceramics, Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age, Arqueologia, Edad Del Bronce, Funeral Archaeology, Megalithism, Archaeology of death and burial, Archaeometallurgy, Mineralogy, Archaeometry, Burial Customs, Middle bronze age weapons & tools, Funeral Monuments, Megalitos, Megaliths, Halberds, Funerals, Funeral Rites, Megalithic tombs, Archaeology of the Funeral Ritual, Prehistoria, Edad del Bronce, The Sociology of Death, Dying and Funerals, Megalithic monument, Archaeometalurgy, Early Bronze Age Weaponry, Anthropology of Religion, Warrior burials, Stone Cists, Funeral Customs, Megalithic Culture, Bronze Age weaponry, and Edad Del Bronce En La Península Ibérica
El Tesauro de Patrimonio Histórico Andaluz (TPHA) es la primera experiencia integradora de todas las disciplinas relacionadas con el Patrimonio Histórico en un único lenguaje documental. Este trabajo parte de un concepto innovador del... more
El Tesauro de Patrimonio Histórico Andaluz (TPHA) es la primera experiencia integradora de todas las disciplinas relacionadas con el Patrimonio Histórico en un único lenguaje documental. Este trabajo parte de un concepto innovador del Patrimonio Histórico que entiende al bien patrimonial en relación con el contexto en el que se desarrolla y desde una interpretación polivalente del mismo. En este sentido es un instrumento ambicioso y novedoso que permite la posibilidad de acercarse al patrimonio desde diferentes enfoques y posibilita la descripción de un mismo objeto desde distintas perspectivas disciplinares. El TPHA es un lenguaje documental capaz de facilitar el tratamiento y recuperación de la información, así como, la integración de las distintas bases de datos patrimoniales que forman el Sistema de Información del Patrimonio Histórico Andaluz. El Tesauro de Patrimonio Histórico Andaluz tiene la vocación de ser útil a todas aquellas instituciones e investigadores relacionados con el conocimiento y la sistematización de la información del Patrimonio Histórico, no sólo a nivel autonómico sino también nacional, constituyendo un instrumento capaz de adaptarse a las necesidades planteadas desde los distintos ámbitos patrimoniales.
Research Interests: Cultural Heritage, Documentation, Cultural Heritage Conservation, Archaeological documentation, Cultural Heritage Recording, Documentation and Information Systems, and 19 moreCultural Heritage Management, Arqueología, Heritage, Teoría Arqueológica, Patrimonio Cultural, Documentación, Thesaurus, Heritage Conservation and Documentation, Conservación, Thesaurus Construction, Thesauri, Tesauros, Antropología de la tecnología, Análisis cultural, Documentation in Archaeology, Semantic Structure and Thesauri, Thesaurus Systems, Lenguajes Documentales: Tesauros, and Gestión del Patrimonio Cultural en Andalucía
Antequera is home to one of the most important megalithic sites in Europe. Previous work has suggested a possible connection between seismic events and megalith-building in the region, as well as a possible awareness of the seismic risks... more
Antequera is home to one of the most important megalithic sites in Europe. Previous work has suggested a possible connection between seismic events and megalith-building in the region, as well as a possible awareness of the seismic risks on the part of the megalith-builders. In this paper we present an over view of this problem. In megalithic monuments, the dynamic loads generated by the seismic waves during an earthquake can produce oscillations between the orthostats. These oscillations can cause orthostats to hit each other, leading to the breakage of corners when they hit the adjacent block. These broken corners (dipping broken corners) can be observed in the dolmens of Menga and Viera. Applying geological structural analysis to these deformations, we obtain an average orientation of movement of the substrate N010ºE for both dolmens. For this reason, we interpret the seismic deformation as a possible origin of these deformations.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Earth Sciences, Geology, Geoarchaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, and 15 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistory, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Earthquakes, Sismologia, Sismology, UNESCO world heritage, Terremotos, Cuaternary, and Antequera (Archaeology)
English: The Antequera dolmens site (Malaga, Spain), included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since July 2016, has a research history of almost 200 years that goes back to the work of Rafael Mitjana y Ardison in the 1840s. After the... more
English: The Antequera dolmens site (Malaga, Spain), included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since July 2016, has a research history of almost 200 years that goes back to the work of Rafael Mitjana y Ardison in the 1840s. After the discovery of the Viera dolmen and El Romeral tholos, in 1903 and 1904 respectively, the research of the great megalithic site received a renewed impulse. Published in 1943, the first volume of the corpus of Iberian megalithic monuments by Georg and Vera Leisner (Die Megalithgräber der Iberischen Halbinsel, Erster Teil: Der Süden) was to become the most detailed study of the Antequera site during the second half of the 20th century, despite the fact that being published in German limited its penetration among the Spanish scholarship. Here, we review the importance of the work of the Leis-ners to understand the Antequera megaliths in light of the results of the research that has been undertaken in the last 15 years. Many of the issues raised by the German couple continue to be fully pertinent within the context of today's research on these monuments. In addition, to facilitate future access to their work, this paper is accompanied by full translations into English and Spanish of the Leisners's text on the Antequera megaliths.
Español: El sitio de los dólmenes de Antequera (Málaga, España), inscrito en la Lista del Patrimonio Mundial de UNESCO desde julio de 2016, cuenta con una historia de investigación de casi 200 años que se remonta al trabajo de Rafael Mitjana y Ardison en la década de 1840. Tras el descubrimiento del dolmen de Viera y el tholos de El Romeral, en 1903 y 1904 respectivamente, la investigación del gran sitio megalítico antequerano experimentó un fuerte impulso. Publicado en 1943, el primer volumen del gran corpus de monumentos megalíticos ibéricos de Georg y Vera Leisner (Die Megalithgräber der Iberischen Halbinsel. Erster Teil: Der Süden) habría de convertirse en el estudio más detallado del sitio antequerano durante toda la segunda mitad del siglo XX, a pesar de que el hecho de estar publicado en alemán lo hacía de difícil acceso para muchos estudiosos españoles. En este artículo revisamos la importancia de la obra de los Leisners para entender los megalitos antequeranos a la luz de los resultados de las investigaciones que se vienen desarrollando desde hace 15 años. Son muchas las cuestiones planteadas en la obra del matrimonio alemán que siguen teniendo plena vigencia en la investigación actual de estos monumentos. Además, para facilitar el futuro acceso a su obra, el texto se acompaña de sendas traducciones al inglés y al español.
Español: El sitio de los dólmenes de Antequera (Málaga, España), inscrito en la Lista del Patrimonio Mundial de UNESCO desde julio de 2016, cuenta con una historia de investigación de casi 200 años que se remonta al trabajo de Rafael Mitjana y Ardison en la década de 1840. Tras el descubrimiento del dolmen de Viera y el tholos de El Romeral, en 1903 y 1904 respectivamente, la investigación del gran sitio megalítico antequerano experimentó un fuerte impulso. Publicado en 1943, el primer volumen del gran corpus de monumentos megalíticos ibéricos de Georg y Vera Leisner (Die Megalithgräber der Iberischen Halbinsel. Erster Teil: Der Süden) habría de convertirse en el estudio más detallado del sitio antequerano durante toda la segunda mitad del siglo XX, a pesar de que el hecho de estar publicado en alemán lo hacía de difícil acceso para muchos estudiosos españoles. En este artículo revisamos la importancia de la obra de los Leisners para entender los megalitos antequeranos a la luz de los resultados de las investigaciones que se vienen desarrollando desde hace 15 años. Son muchas las cuestiones planteadas en la obra del matrimonio alemán que siguen teniendo plena vigencia en la investigación actual de estos monumentos. Además, para facilitar el futuro acceso a su obra, el texto se acompaña de sendas traducciones al inglés y al español.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Architecture, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, and 15 moreNeolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, History of Archaeology, History of architecture, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Monuments, Conservation and Restoration of Historic Buildings and Monuments, and Antequera (Archaeology)
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, and 15 moreRock Art (Archaeology), Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Monuments, Megaliths, Anthropology of Religion, and Antequera (Archaeology)
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Sedimentology, Stratigraphy, Mediterranean prehistory, and 13 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistory, Neolithic, Sedimentary geology and stratigraphy, Prehistoric Archeology, Megaliths, and Antequera (Archaeology)
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geology, Mediterranean prehistory, Archaeometry, and 14 moreUse Wear Analysis, Megalithic Monuments, Lithic Technology, Prehistoric Technology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Lithics, Megaliths (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Lithic Technology (Archaeology), Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Lithic Analysis, Lithic Raw Material Sourcing, 和 Megaliths
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geoarchaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Use Wear Analysis, and 14 moreMegalithic Monuments, Lithic Technology, Prehistoric Technology, Ground Stone Technology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Lithics, Megaliths (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Lithic Analysis, Lithic Raw Material Sourcing, Megaliths, and Antequera (Archaeology)
Research Interests:
Research Interests: Ancient History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Medieval History, History of Religion, and 15 moreMediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Bayesian Radiocarbon Dating, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Chronology, Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), Megaliths, and Antequera (Archaeology)
Research Interests: History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Mediterranean prehistory, and 15 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Water History, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Water Resources Management, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Hydraulic systems and structures, Hydraulic and Hydrology, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Neolithic, Water Supply, and Megaliths
The background of this paper is the biographical relationship between the Menga dolmen and La Peña de los Enamorados mountain (a conspicuous and highly-recognisable natural formation), both part of the Antequera megalithic landscape. Our... more
The background of this paper is the biographical relationship between the Menga dolmen and La Peña de los Enamorados mountain (a conspicuous and highly-recognisable natural formation), both part of the Antequera megalithic landscape. Our main aim is to provide a high-resolution characterisation of the Matacabras rock art shelter, located on the northern side of La Peña de los Enamorados. This is achieved through a photogrammetric topographic survey, a detailed assessment of the graphic motifs identified through the use of digital image processing and various types of physical and chemical analysis, a geo-chemical characterisation of pottery found on its surface, and a comparative stylistic analysis of its motifs. Our study suggests that Matacabras (and the site of Piedras Blancas I, located just below it), played an important role in the genesis of Menga, which perhaps makes it the most important rock art location of Spanish Late Prehistory.
Research Interests: History, Cultural History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, and 55 moreArt History, Geoarchaeology, History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Rock Art (Archaeology), Cultural Landscapes, Landscape History, Ancient Religion, Neolithic Archaeology, Rock Art management & Awareness, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Archaeometry, History of Art, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Prehistoric Settlement, Social History of Art, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Ceramics (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Prehistoric Rock Art, Neolithic, Archaeological survey, Rock Art, Historia, Ceramics, Prehistoric Archeology, Antropología cultural, Prehistoria, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, History of Art and archaeology, Archaeometry, archaeological science, ceramics, History of Art and Architecture, Rock art chronology, History of Arts, Rock art research, Quaternary Geoarchaeology, Rock Art, Prehistoric Art and Archaeology, Landscape and Rock Art, Archaeometric analysis of pottery, Archaeological surveying and mapping, Rock art conservation, Rock art recording, Anthropology of Religion, Schematic Rock Art, Rock Art Study, Antequera (Archaeology), and Dólmenes de Antequera
"The idea that monuments might be built rapidly appears in Alasdair Whittle’s work. Drawing on a range of archaeological and ethnographic sources, he discusses the construction and use of monuments as a response to natural disasters... more
"The idea that monuments might be built rapidly appears in Alasdair Whittle’s work. Drawing on a range of archaeological and ethnographic sources, he discusses the construction and use of monuments as a response to natural disasters throughout many different cultures. In this paper, we consider the possible connections of monument-building and a particular kind of natural disaster, earthquakes, in Neolithic Europe. Previous research on the field of paleoseismology has provided evidence of the effects of earthquakes on prehistoric monuments and the societies that built them. To this end, we will draw on examples from Brittany and southern Spain, connecting them to the specific contexts in which some monuments were built."
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 11 moreReligion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Earthquake, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Neolithic, Earthquakes, and Megaliths
"A stone hammer found in June 2014 within the infill of Menga’s mound, behind upright R12 (the second on the right as one enters the megalith), is described and studied. This artefact is firstly characterised from a geo-lithological... more
"A stone hammer found in June 2014 within the infill of Menga’s mound, behind upright R12 (the second on the right as one enters the megalith), is described and studied. This artefact is firstly characterised from
a geo-lithological viewpoint, which reveals it is a meta-arenite from the Campo de Gibraltar geological formation. Secondly, a use-wear analysis is carried out, showing that this object presents percussion marks on both its ends. Finally, this item is assessed from a contextual point of view and compared to other percussion tools found at the atrium and in the water well of Menga. As a conclusion, we discuss the possibility that this object was a tool used by a person working in the construction of this great megalith."
a geo-lithological viewpoint, which reveals it is a meta-arenite from the Campo de Gibraltar geological formation. Secondly, a use-wear analysis is carried out, showing that this object presents percussion marks on both its ends. Finally, this item is assessed from a contextual point of view and compared to other percussion tools found at the atrium and in the water well of Menga. As a conclusion, we discuss the possibility that this object was a tool used by a person working in the construction of this great megalith."
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geology, Geoarchaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, and 24 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Use Wear Analysis, Megalithic Monuments, Lithic Technology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Lithics, Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Residue and Use-Wear Analysis, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial mounds (Archaeology), Lithic Technology (Archaeology), Neolithic, Provenance studies of archaeological material, Prehistoric Archeology, Prehistoric polished stone tools, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Lithic Analysis, Lithic Raw Material Sourcing, Megaliths, and Antequera (Archaeology)
"The megalithic monuments of Antequera (Málaga, Spain) are among the most significant of Iberia and have become a reference for the study of the megalithic phenomenon worldwide. Despite the long history of their research, dating back to... more
"The megalithic monuments of Antequera (Málaga, Spain) are among the most significant of Iberia and have become a reference for the study of the megalithic phenomenon worldwide. Despite the long history of
their research, dating back to first half of the 19th century, the Antequera megaliths currently lack a robust scientific chronology, which hampers the study of their complex biographies, especially the dates of their
construction. Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) is a powerful tool in the toolbox of direct monument dating techniques. It is expected that OSL dating can provide the chronological resolution needed to decipher the chronology of the Antequeran megaliths. Here we present the results of the first round of sampling that aimed at assessing the suitability of the materials involved. Ultimately, results would indicate the most effective sampling strategy for a successful OSL dating attempt at a later stage."
their research, dating back to first half of the 19th century, the Antequera megaliths currently lack a robust scientific chronology, which hampers the study of their complex biographies, especially the dates of their
construction. Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) is a powerful tool in the toolbox of direct monument dating techniques. It is expected that OSL dating can provide the chronological resolution needed to decipher the chronology of the Antequeran megaliths. Here we present the results of the first round of sampling that aimed at assessing the suitability of the materials involved. Ultimately, results would indicate the most effective sampling strategy for a successful OSL dating attempt at a later stage."
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 16 moreMegalithic Monuments, OSL dating, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Luminescence Dating, Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistory, Luminescence (OSL), Neolithic, Chronology, Monuments, Luminescence, Megaliths, Optically Stimulated Luminescence, and Antequera (Archaeology)
"An assemblage of 23 fired 9 mm bullets found at the atrium of the Menga dolmen during the University of Málaga 1991 excavations is described and studied. These bullets are first described from a morphological and ballistic viewpoint;... more
"An assemblage of 23 fired 9 mm bullets found at the atrium of the Menga dolmen during the University of Málaga 1991 excavations is described and studied. These bullets are first described from a morphological and ballistic viewpoint; then they are analysed from an archaeometallurgical perspective by means of X-Ray Micro-Fluorescence and Lead Isotope Analysis; finally they are discussed within the historical context of the Spanish Civil War through oral and archival data. As a conclusion, it is suggested that the bullets could be material evidence of summary executions occurred in Antequera in the weeks after the military rebellion of July 1936, which would establish Menga as unexpected witness to some of the most tragic events in the 20th century local history."
Research Interests: History, Cultural History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Archaeological Science, and 68 moreContemporary History, War Studies, Metallurgy, Spanish History, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Archaeometry, War Crimes, Megalithic Monuments, Archaeology of the Spanish Civil War, Spanish Civil War, X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectroscopy, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Archaeometallurgy, 20th Century, Megaliths (Archaeology), War and violence, Neolithic Europe, Ethnic Conflict and Civil War, History of War, Neolithic, Historia, Archaeometallurgy in Europe, Megalithism, Archaeometallurgical Researchs, Historia política y social siglos XIX y XX, Archaeometallurgy, Mineralogy, Archaeometry, Archaeometry, archaeological science, ceramics, GUERRA CIVIL ESPAÑOLA, Lead Isotope Analysis, Megalitismo, Monuments, Archaeology, archaeometallurgy, Firearms, Megaliths, Ballistics and Firearms, Segunda República y Guerra Civil Española, Arqueologia y antropologia forense y fisica, History of Spanish Civil War, Guns, Arms and Ammunitions, Historia Contemporánea de España, siglo XX, Historia Contemporánea, The archaeology of warfare, War Crimes, Crimes Against Humanity, Guerra Civil, Megalithic tombs, Arqueología de la Guerra Civil Española, Archaeology of warfare, Forensic Ballistics, Archaeometalurgy, FIRE ARMS AND BALLISTICS, Lead Isotope Provenance Studies, II República, Guerra Civil, Franquismo, Modern Weapons, Gender and War Crimes, Weaponry, Lead Isotope, Guerras civiles, ARQUEOLOGIA DE LA GUERRA CIVIL ESPAÑOLA, Lead Isotope Analyses, Megalithic Culture, Andalusian History, Modern Weapons and Warfare, Antequera (Archaeology), and Ammunition elaboration
"In 2005, a fully backfilled 19.4 metres deep water well was found inside the Menga dolmen, causing an enormous surprise among the scientific community, as there was no knowledge of the existence of such structure, which is unparalleled.... more
"In 2005, a fully backfilled 19.4 metres deep water well was found inside the Menga dolmen, causing an enormous surprise among the scientific community, as there was no knowledge of the existence of such structure, which is unparalleled. In this paper, the chronology of the infill of this well is investigated. First, we describe the early steps in the investigation of this megalithic monument in the 19th century, when
references to this well were made which were then forgotten throughout the 20th century. Next, we describe the stratigraphy and associated finds of the well and present the results of a Bayesian modelling of 14
radiocarbon dates obtained from short-lived samples (animal bones retrieved from within its infill). This evidence sets the ground for the discussion of a fairly robust hypothesis regarding the temporality of the
well’s backfilling process, which took place in the 18th century CE, as well as some informed speculations regarding the circumstances that may have led to it."
references to this well were made which were then forgotten throughout the 20th century. Next, we describe the stratigraphy and associated finds of the well and present the results of a Bayesian modelling of 14
radiocarbon dates obtained from short-lived samples (animal bones retrieved from within its infill). This evidence sets the ground for the discussion of a fairly robust hypothesis regarding the temporality of the
well’s backfilling process, which took place in the 18th century CE, as well as some informed speculations regarding the circumstances that may have led to it."
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Archaeological Stratigraphy, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 16 moreSpanish archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Radiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Bayesian Radiocarbon Dating, Arqueología, Neolithic, Chronology, Megalithism, Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), Megaliths, Dolmens, and Antequera (Archaeology)
"Antequera (Málaga) is home to one of the most important Neolithic and Copper Age megalithic landscapes in Europe, as proven by its recent declaration as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on July 15th 2016. This declaration highlights the... more
"Antequera (Málaga) is home to one of the most important Neolithic and Copper Age megalithic landscapes in Europe, as proven by its recent declaration as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on July 15th 2016. This declaration highlights the need to push ahead in the research of the Neolithic and Copper Age periods, when the megalithic phenomenon developed and the three large Antequera megaliths, Menga, Viera and El Romeral, were built. In this paper, stemming from an ongoing research project, we present a synthesis of the evidence available for the study of the Copper Age settlement patterns and social dynamics in the Lands of Antequera. Departing from a comprehensive review of the existing literature an assessment is made of the settlement patterns, subsistence economy, exploitation and exchange of abiotic resources, monumentality and burial practices of this time period. The aim is to formulate a preliminary framework of analysis of the cultural and social context in which the construction of El Romeral, the largest tholos monument known in Iberia, took place."
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Settlement Patterns, and 28 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Landscapes in prehistory, Prehistoric Settlement, Megalithic Monuments, World Cultural Heritage, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Spatial archaeology, Spatial analysis (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Arqueología, Settlement archaeology, Neolithic, Prehistoric Archeology, Copper age, Prehistoria, Arqueología del Paisaje, Patrones De Asentamiento, Megaliths, World Heritage, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, and UNESCO world heritage
"Because of its design and scale, Menga is an outstanding megalithic monument. As such, it has also had a remarkable biography, dating back to the early part of the 4th millennium BC and spanning all prehistoric and historic periods since... more
"Because of its design and scale, Menga is an outstanding megalithic monument. As such, it has also had a remarkable biography, dating back to the early part of the 4th millennium BC and spanning all prehistoric and historic periods since then. This paper presents, for the first time, a comprehensive review of the evidence available to understand Menga’s journey through time. The data presented here help understand issues such as the chronology of the building of the monument, its frequentation and use throughout Late Prehistory or its re-use as burial ground in Roman and Medieval times. To date, no other Iberian megalithic monument has shown such pervasiveness as a place filled with long-term ideological significance for memory and identity."
Research Interests: Religion, History, Ancient History, Cultural History, Prehistoric Archaeology, and 95 moreAnthropology, Art History, Social Anthropology, Architecture, Medieval History, History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Medieval Studies, Mediterranean prehistory, Social and Cultural Anthropology, History and Memory, Spanish History, Architectural History, Medieval Archaeology, Ancient Religion, Neolithic Archaeology, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Cultural World Heritage Sites, Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Commemoration and Memory, Collective Memory, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Landscapes in prehistory, Social History, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Memory, Ancient myth and religion, World Cultural Heritage, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Iron Age (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Arqueología, Neolithic, History of architecture, Memory, Oral History and Memory, Arqueología De La Arquitectura, Arqueología histórica, Arqueologia Medieval, Archaeology of burials, Funeral Archaeology, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Prehistoria, Arqueología Social, Arqueología del Paisaje, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Archaeology of death and burial, Monumentality, Biography of Objects, Collective Remembrance, Burial Customs, Paysage, Megalitismo, Monuments, Neolítico, Funeral Monuments, Social Remembering, Megaliths, World Heritage, Funeral Rites, Megalithic tombs, Prehistoria Reciente, The Sociology of Death, Dying and Funerals, Biographical Research, Monuments & Memorials, Archéologie du paysage, Anthropology of Religion, Unesco World Heritage Site, Funerary Monuments, Ancient Stone Monuments, Paysages Et Sociétés, Remembrances and Identities, Patrimonio Mundial, Funeral Customs, Património Mundial, Megalithic Culture, Memory and Rememberance, Memory and Remembrance, Politics of Remembrace, Stone monuments, Antequera (Archaeology), and Cultural Remembrance
Piedras Blancas I is part of the La Peña de los Enamorados archaeological complex (Antequera, Málaga). This complex presents evidence dating from the Neolithic period to the 20th century AD. Research carried out in 2006 suggested that the... more
Piedras Blancas I is part of the La Peña de los Enamorados archaeological complex (Antequera, Málaga). This complex presents evidence dating from the Neolithic period to the 20th century AD. Research carried out in 2006 suggested that the northern sector of La Peña de los Enamorados had known significant activity between the Late Neolithic and Copper Age, which is basically materialized in the Matacabras rock shelter, where schematic rock art is found, and the Piedras Blancas I site. Fresh fieldwork and laboratory analysis undertaken
between September 2013 and November 2015, including intensive surface survey, magnetometer prospection
and geoarchaeological analysis, have provided new and more precise empirical evidence to understand this site. In this paper we present a summary of the results obtained as part of the research carried out at Piedras Blancas I, a site of major relevance given its landscape association with the dolmen of Menga.
between September 2013 and November 2015, including intensive surface survey, magnetometer prospection
and geoarchaeological analysis, have provided new and more precise empirical evidence to understand this site. In this paper we present a summary of the results obtained as part of the research carried out at Piedras Blancas I, a site of major relevance given its landscape association with the dolmen of Menga.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geoarchaeology, Landscape Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, and 10 moreMegalithic Monuments, Lithic Technology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Archaeological Geophysics, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Archaeological survey, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, and Antequera (Archaeology)
The archaeological excavation carried out in 1988 by the University of Málaga’s Area of Prehistory in the surrounding area of the Viera dolmen identified significant evidence of settlement and funerary practices in Antiquity. In the... more
The archaeological excavation carried out in 1988 by the University of Málaga’s Area of Prehistory in the surrounding area of the Viera dolmen identified significant evidence of settlement and funerary practices in Antiquity. In the framework of the Research Project “Societies, Territories and Landscapes in the Prehistory of the Lands of Antequera (Málaga)” (2013-2018) a systematic study of the material culture found in this excavation has been carried out. The typological and technological studies of material, mainly pottery and metal objects, along with the bioarchaeological characterisation and radiocarbon dating of the faunal and human remains have revealed an intense funerary activity between the IInd and IVth centuries cal AD and a main settlement phase between the Vth and VIIth centuries cal AD. This burial activity suggests the continuity of the social, ideological and religious significance of Menga and Viera through the first half of the 1st millennium
AD.
AD.
Research Interests: Religion, Ancient History, Archaeology, Classical Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, and 46 moreRoman History, History of Religion, History and Memory, Roman Religion, Archaeology of Religion, Funerary Archaeology, History of Religions, Ancient Religion, Late Antiquity, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Commemoration and Memory, Collective Memory, Archaeology of Architecture, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Ancient myth and religion, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Archaeology of Roman Hispania, Hispania (Archaeology), Late Roman Pottery in Hispania, Roman burial practices, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Funerary Architecture, Antiquity, Oral History and Memory, Funerary Practices, Hispania, Ancient History of the Iberian Peninsula/Hispania, Roman Funerary Architecture, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, Historia Antigua Clásica, Arqueología romana / Roman archeology, Roman cities of Baetica (Hispania), Historia Antigua, Hispania romana, Arqueología, Historia Antigua, Antigüedad Tardía, Roma, Hispania, Mundo Ibérico, Roman Funerary Commemoration, Anthropology of Religion, Roman Archaeology, Ethnicity In Antiquity, and Antequera (Archaeology)
This paper presents two new radiocarbon dates obtained from samples of animal bones collected in the megalithic monument of Viera (Antequera, Málaga). The bones were found during the early exploration of Viera, shortly after its discovery... more
This paper presents two new radiocarbon dates obtained from samples of animal bones collected in the megalithic monument of Viera (Antequera, Málaga). The bones were found during the early exploration of Viera, shortly after its discovery in 1903 and are currently part of the Manuel Gómez-Moreno Collection, which was donated to the Museum of Málaga on June 10th 1945. These two new dates suggest the ritual use of Viera, a monument believed to have been built in the Late Neolithic, in the late Copper Age and Early Bronze Age (late 3rd and early 2nd millennia BC). These results are discussed within the framework of the Lands of Antequera’s Late Prehistory, particularly in connection with other available evidence of the re-use of megalithic monuments in the Copper Age and Early Bronze Age.
Research Interests: Prehistoric Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Radiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), and 8 moreIberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Prehistory, Copper age, Prehistoria, Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), and Antequera (Archaeology)
Despite a long history of research and conservation dating back to the late 19th century, when the current stage in the management of the three large Antequeran megalithic monuments started in 2004 there was an almost complete absence of... more
Despite a long history of research and conservation dating back to the late 19th century, when the current stage in the management of the three large Antequeran megalithic monuments started in 2004 there was an almost complete absence of high-resolution cartography to support their study and protection. To being to solve this severe deficiency, a high-resolution cartographic survey of Menga through terrestrial laser scanning, 3D modelling and photogrammetry was carried out in 2005. In this paper we present a short summary of that work, describing its technical and conceptual basis as well as the results that were obtained. In addition, we briefly discuss some examples of the highly positive impact this newly developed cartography has had on the management and research of this megalithic monument.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Computer Graphics, Digital Humanities, Photogrammetry, and 23 moreVirtual Reality (Computer Graphics), Rendering (Computer Graphics), Archaeological Graphics & Illustration, Conservation, Mediterranean prehistory, Cultural Heritage Conservation, Heritage Conservation, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, 3D Laser scanning (Architecture), Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Archaeological Conservation, Neolithic Europe, Prehistory, Neolithic, Archaeological Computing, 3D Laser Scanning (Archaeology), 3D Laser scanning, Archaeological Computing, Cultural Informatics, Digital Cultural Heritage, and Antequera (Archaeology)
ARCA (Archive of Archaeological Contexts in its Spanish acronym) is an on-line database created by the Research Group ATLAS (HUM-694) of the University of Seville (Spain). This database currently stores 2300 records of archaeological... more
ARCA (Archive of Archaeological Contexts in its Spanish acronym) is an on-line database created by the Research Group ATLAS (HUM-694) of the University of Seville (Spain). This database currently stores 2300 records of archaeological sites located within the autonomous regions of Andalusia and Extremadura. A very significant part of this information (almost 1500 records) corresponds to the Lands of Antequera inventory of archaeological sites. This article is divided in two parts. The first part details the background of this database, the criteria that have been used in its structure and design, as well as the information sources compiled to set it up. The second part presents a (largely cartographic) synthesis of the data available for the study of settlement patterns in the Lands of Antequera throughout Prehistory, Protohistory and Ancient History.
Research Interests: Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Cultural Resource Management (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Databases, and 5 morePre Roman Archaeology/Iberian Culture, Settlement archaeology, Conservation, Preservation and Site Management of Archaeological Sites, Roman Spain, and Antequera (Archaeology)
In the spring of 2005, a three-month long archaeological excavation was carried out at Menga. This excavation remains unpublished. This paper presents the results of the bioarchaeological and C14-dating study of two inhumations found at... more
In the spring of 2005, a three-month long archaeological excavation was carried out at Menga. This excavation remains unpublished. This paper presents the results of the bioarchaeological and C14-dating study of two inhumations found at the atrium during that excavation. The evidence obtained shows that two male adults were buried there in the second half of the 1st millennium AD. This suggests the probable continuity of the megalithic monument as a burial ground and sacred space during the Middle Age. This, in turn, is interpreted in terms of the depth and complexity of the biography of Menga as a monument.
Research Interests: History, Archaeology, Historical Archaeology, Medieval History, Medieval Studies, and 15 moreMedieval Islam, Early Medieval Archaeology, Early Medieval History, Medieval Archaeology, Al-Andalus, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Anthropology of Death, Early Middle Ages (History), Al Andalus (Islamic History), Al-Andalus archaeology, Archeologia medievale, Storia medievale, Historia medieval de España, Middle Ages, and Historia Medieval
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Landscape Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), and 7 moreNeolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeological survey, Copper age, Megaliths, and Antequera (Archaeology)
Research on the territorial and landscape background of the Antequera dolmens (Málaga, Spain) has traditionally been assigned secondary importance, perhaps partly as a consequence of the very prominence and monumentality of the megalithic... more
Research on the territorial and landscape background of the Antequera dolmens (Málaga, Spain) has traditionally been assigned secondary importance, perhaps partly as a consequence of the very prominence and monumentality of the megalithic structures. New archaeological research carried out in 2006 has opened new avenues of research essential to understanding the social context in which the monuments were conceived and used. The fieldwork summarized in this paper was carried out by a multidisciplinary team in 2006 and contributes to the organization of existing information, bringing at the same time new data, concepts and ideas in abundance. This work has suggested previously unidentified aspects in areas such as settlement patterns and the role of the landscape in the ideological reproduction of late prehistoric communities in the region. These results require further analysis and will only achieve its full potential by the application of a continued and sustained scientific effort.
Research Interests:
The setting of prehistoric settlement the megalithic monuments of Antequera (Málaga, Spain) were part of is still very poorly understood. This paper briefly describes the approach, objectives and methodology of the research project... more
The setting of prehistoric settlement the megalithic monuments of Antequera (Málaga, Spain) were part of is still very poorly understood. This paper briefly describes the approach, objectives and methodology of the research project entitled 'Societies, Territories and Landscape in Prehistoric Antequera'. It presents the institutional context and overall objectives of the project and details the participating scientific teams and relevant geographic frames of reference. Also described are the approaches, methods and objectives of the three principle lines of research: the prospection and analysis of the territory; the geoarchaeological study; and the documentation and analysis of the prehistoric symbols.
Research Interests:
Valencina (Seville, Spain) is one of the most important megalithic sites of the third millennium BCE in Western Europe. Among its most celebrated monuments are the tholoi of Montelirio, La Pastora, Matarrubilla, and Structure... more
Valencina (Seville, Spain) is one of the most important megalithic sites of the third millennium BCE in Western Europe. Among its most celebrated monuments are the tholoi of Montelirio, La Pastora, Matarrubilla, and Structure 10.042-10.049. Although sharing the same architectural tradition, these monuments were raised at different times of Valencina's history and present important formal differences. In particular, the tholoi of La Pastora and Matarrubilla contrast with that of Montelirio in that they are devoid of artistic ornamentation such as paintings and engravings, showing instead an inordinate number of natural geological features. This study, focusing on La Pastora and Matarrubilla, offers an innovative approach to the notion of 'megalithic art.' Firstly, these elements are characterized and classified and their natural origin established. Thus, the calcareous sandstone blocks dated from the Tertiary reveal structures on their surfaces generated by biological (bioturbation) and physical (by currents) processes during the Neogene. The surfaces of certain slabs of identical lithology at La Pastora experienced more recent intense marine bioerosion and bioconstructions in the form of Ostrea preserved to this date. Secondly, we emphasize the choice of different rock types following a certain pattern or serving to highlight a particular constructive element. In sum, all the natural elements bear highly aesthetic qualities and appear to have been deliberately chosen to highlight specific decorative or symbolic aspects. As a result, we suggest that future research on 'megalithic art' should include analogous geological examinations in order to discern the origin and nature of the different elements.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geology, Geoarchaeology, History of Religion, and 15 moreMediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Prehistoric Rock Art, Megalithic Art, Copper age, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
Social complexity, social inequality and social hierarchisation are among the most frequently discussed topics in the study of the Iberian Copper Age (c. 3200 – 2200 cal BCE). Since the impact of processual archaeology on Iberian Late... more
Social complexity, social inequality and social hierarchisation are among the most frequently discussed topics in the study of the Iberian Copper Age (c. 3200 – 2200 cal BCE). Since the impact of processual archaeology on Iberian Late Prehistory during the early 1980s, a large number of studies have been dedicated to these issues. Establishing a single theory (or a unanimously accepted one) of Chalcolithic social complexity is especially difficult due to the geographical and ecological diversity of Iberia, with the subsequent variability of social and cultural responses, as well as due to the limitations of the available empirical record. This paper aims to contribute to the debate concerning the nature of social inequality and hierarchisation in Copper Age Iberia by presenting and discussing new data obtained at the site of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain). Valencina – located in the lower Guadalquivir River valley – is perhaps the largest Iberian settlement from the 3rd millennium cal BCE and it certainly has great potential to help advance the debate on the evolution of social complexity during the Iberian Copper Age (García Sanjuán et al. 2017). Recent contributions to the ample literature on this site have made it possible to move forward in the systematisation of the available empirical evidence (García Sanjuán et al. 2013 a), especially in terms of chronology (García Sanjuán et al. 2018), demography (Díaz-Zorita Bonilla 2017) and resources (García Sanjuán 2017). Specifically, we will proceed by presenting the existing data on grave 10.042 – 10.049, which is located in the PP4-Montelirio sector of Valencina. We will subsequently continue by evaluating this grave within the context of the social organisation of the communities that occupied and/ or frequented this Chalcolithic settlement.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 15 moreChalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Inequality (Anthropology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Social Complexity, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Copper age, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Archaeology of death and burial, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
English: In the last ten years, research on the Valencina Copper Age mega-site (Seville, Spain) has experienced major advances. Of special relevance is the excavation and scientific study of the great Montelirio tomb, which has provided... more
English: In the last ten years, research on the Valencina Copper Age mega-site (Seville, Spain) has experienced major advances. Of special relevance is the excavation and scientific study of the great Montelirio tomb, which has provided new and accurate data about multiple aspects of the ways of life in this period. The aim of our study is to explore the significance of Montelirio within the context of the processes of social hierarchisation that took place in southern Iberia at the beginning of the 3rd millennium BCE, a problem that until very recently had been very difficult to examine due to the absence of information in the main reference sites (especially Zambujal and Los Millares). To this end, we carry out a detailed comparative analysis of the temporality, material culture and bioarchaeology of Montelirio and Structure 10.042-10.049, another major megalithic tomb located just 200 m away in the southeast quadrant of the Valencina. As a result we propose that in the first half of the 3rd millennium cal BCE these tombs were used by the incipient elites of a social system based on a ranking of lineages within which ivory played an important role as an element of prestige and ostentation.
Español: En los últimos diez años, la investigación del mega-sitio de la Edad del Cobre de Valencina (Sevilla, España) ha experimentado importantes avances. De especial relevancia es la excavación y estudio científico de la gran tumba megalítica de Montelirio, que ha proporcionado nuevos y precisos datos acerca de multiples aspectos de la forma de vida de este periodo. Nuestro análisis persigue explorar la significación de Montelirio en el contexto de los procesos de jerarquización social que tuvieron lugar en el sur Iberia a principios del 3rd milenio ANE, un problema que hasta muy recientemente había sido muy difícil de tratar debido a la ausencia de información en los principales sitios de referencia (especialmente Zambujal y Los Millares). Para ello nos basamos en un detallado análisis comparativo de la temporalidad, la cultura material y la bioarqueología de varios de los sujetos inhumados en Montelirio y en la Estructura 10.042-10-049, otra importante tumba megalítica ubicada a escasos 200 m de distancia dentro del cuadrante suroriental del Valencina. Como resultado proponemos que en la primera mitad del 3er milenio ANE estas tumbas fueron usadas por las incipientes élites de un sistema social basado en la jerarquización de linajes, dentro del cual el marfil jugó un importante papel como elemento de prestigio y ostentación.
Español: En los últimos diez años, la investigación del mega-sitio de la Edad del Cobre de Valencina (Sevilla, España) ha experimentado importantes avances. De especial relevancia es la excavación y estudio científico de la gran tumba megalítica de Montelirio, que ha proporcionado nuevos y precisos datos acerca de multiples aspectos de la forma de vida de este periodo. Nuestro análisis persigue explorar la significación de Montelirio en el contexto de los procesos de jerarquización social que tuvieron lugar en el sur Iberia a principios del 3rd milenio ANE, un problema que hasta muy recientemente había sido muy difícil de tratar debido a la ausencia de información en los principales sitios de referencia (especialmente Zambujal y Los Millares). Para ello nos basamos en un detallado análisis comparativo de la temporalidad, la cultura material y la bioarqueología de varios de los sujetos inhumados en Montelirio y en la Estructura 10.042-10-049, otra importante tumba megalítica ubicada a escasos 200 m de distancia dentro del cuadrante suroriental del Valencina. Como resultado proponemos que en la primera mitad del 3er milenio ANE estas tumbas fueron usadas por las incipientes élites de un sistema social basado en la jerarquización de linajes, dentro del cual el marfil jugó un importante papel como elemento de prestigio y ostentación.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 15 moreMegalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Evolution, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Social Inequality (Anthropology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Social Complexity, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Burial Customs, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
English: "This article draws together work from previous studies and new mortuary evidence in order to describe the non-adult population at the Copper Age settlement of Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla). In total, we examine 39... more
English: "This article draws together work from previous studies and new mortuary evidence in order to describe the non-adult population at the Copper Age settlement of Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla). In total, we examine 39 non-adult individuals found in a range of burial structures which span the entire chronology of the site. We observed a high variability in both the proportion of the non-adult segment of the population interred in each burial structure, as well as evidence of differentiated funerary treatment related to age. We discuss the distribution of these individuals across different types of burials, as well as their association with adult individuals and grave goods, thus providing the basis for an assessment of their demographic and social significance."
Español: "A partir de la revisión de estudios previos y de la aportación de datos inéditos se realiza un análisis de la población no adulta del asentamiento de la Edad del Cobre de Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla). En total se examinan 39 sujetos no adultos inhumados en contenedores funerarios de distinto tipo y repartidos a lo largo de la amplia cronología de este asentamiento. Como resultado se constata la alta variabilidad de la proporción de este segmento de la población en las estructuras funerarias de Valencina así como la existencia de indicios de un tratamiento diferenciado para el mismo. Como parte de la discusión se examina la asociación de estos individuos con tipos de contenedores funerarios, individuos adultos y ajuares, valorándose su significación demográfica y social."
Español: "A partir de la revisión de estudios previos y de la aportación de datos inéditos se realiza un análisis de la población no adulta del asentamiento de la Edad del Cobre de Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla). En total se examinan 39 sujetos no adultos inhumados en contenedores funerarios de distinto tipo y repartidos a lo largo de la amplia cronología de este asentamiento. Como resultado se constata la alta variabilidad de la proporción de este segmento de la población en las estructuras funerarias de Valencina así como la existencia de indicios de un tratamiento diferenciado para el mismo. Como parte de la discusión se examina la asociación de estos individuos con tipos de contenedores funerarios, individuos adultos y ajuares, valorándose su significación demográfica y social."
Research Interests: Social Demography, Demography, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Bioarchaeology, and 15 moreHistorical Demography, Anthropology of Children and Childhood, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Physical Anthropology, Social Organisation (Archaeology), Death and Burial (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Infancy, Demografía, Copper age, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), Demografia Histórica, and Demografía Social
"The great site of Valencina de la Concepción-Castilleja de Guzmán, near Seville in the lower Guadalquivir valley of southwest Spain, is presented in the context of debate about the nature of Copper Age society in southern Iberia as a... more
"The great site of Valencina de la Concepción-Castilleja de Guzmán, near Seville in the lower Guadalquivir valley of southwest Spain, is presented in the context of debate about the nature of Copper Age society in southern Iberia as a whole. Many aspects of the layout, use, character and development of Valencina remain unclear, just as there are major unresolved questions about the kind of society represented there and in southern Iberia, from the late fourth to the late third millennium cal BC. This paper discusses 178 radiocarbon dates, from 17 excavated sectors within the c. 450 ha site, making it the best dated in later Iberian prehistory as a whole. Dates are modelled in a Bayesian statistical framework. The resulting formal date estimates provide the basis for both a new epistemological approach to the site and a much more detailed narrative of its development than previously available. Beginning in the 32nd century cal BC, a long-lasting tradition of simple, mainly collective and often successive burial was established at the site. Mud-vaulted tholoi appear to belong to the 29th or 28th centuries cal BC; large stone-vaulted tholoi such as La Pastora appear to date later in the sequence. There is plenty of evidence for a wide range of other activity, but no clear sign of permanent, large-scale residence or public buildings or spaces. Results in general support a model of increasingly competitive but ultimately unstable social relations, through various phases of emergence, social competition, display and hierarchisation, and eventual decline, over a period of c. 900 years."
Research Interests: Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 15 moreReligion and ritual in prehistory, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Radiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Bayesian Radiocarbon Dating, North African prehistory (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Funerary Practices, Radiocarbon Dating, Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
"The mega-site of Valencina is currently a major focus of interest for the study of Copper Age Iberia. Remarkable megalithic monuments such as La Pastora, Montelirio or Structure 10.042-10.049 at PP4-Montelirio are found alongside... more
"The mega-site of Valencina is currently a major focus of interest for the study of Copper Age Iberia. Remarkable megalithic monuments such as La Pastora, Montelirio or Structure 10.042-10.049 at PP4-Montelirio are found alongside hundreds of other features, including pits and large-sized ditches, some of which have yielded evidence of exotic material craftsmanship without parallels in Iberian Late Prehistory which also suggests long-distance contacts. Part of the flourishing experienced by Valencina in the 3rd millennium BC can be explained by its specific geographic location at the mouth of the Guadalquivir river, facing a marine gulf surrounded by lands of high agricultural potential. Other reasons, however, must have accounted for Valencina's growth as a mega-site, including particularly demographic and economic ones. In order to better understand the demographic and subsistence patterns of the communities that lived and/or frequented Valencina, we analysed 29 human and 7 faunal samples for δ 18 O and δ 13 C isotope analyses. The sampling strategy followed is based on a combination of bone and dental tissues. In addition an intra-tooth study was also carried out to observe intra-individual seasonal changes. Overall, this evidence contributes to the study of diet and mobility patterns, which can in turn provide insights of the demography and economy of the communities that used this mega-site. "
Research Interests: History, Cultural History, Economic History, Biochemistry, Zoology, and 116 moreGeography, Human Geography, Social Geography, Physical Geography, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, Geochemistry, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Economic Geography, Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, Medical Anthropology, Social Anthropology, Stable isotope ecology, Zooarchaeology, Stable Isotope Analysis, Bioarchaeology, Geoarchaeology, Nutrition, Mobility/Mobilities, Mediterranean prehistory, Environmental Studies, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Environmental History, Anthropology of Mobility, Anthropology of Food, Environmetal Earth Science, Organic Geochemistry, Economic Anthropology, Archaeozoology, Bone and tooth, Dental Anthropology, Stable Isotopes, Stable Isotope Geochemistry, Funerary Archaeology, Food and Nutrition, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Physical Anthropology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Social History, Environmental Chemistry, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Animals & Society studies, Cultural Anthropology, Animals in Culture, Archaeological Chemistry, Social zooarchaeology, Neolithic Europe, Isotope Geochemistry, Ritual Zooarchaeology, Ancient Agriculture & Farming (Archaeology), Ancient Husbandry & Livestock (Archaeology), Food Science and Technology, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Human Nutrition, Mortuary archaeology, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Animal Husbandry, Arqueología, Mortuary studies, Neolithic, Ancient animal husbandry and agriculture, Livestock, Animal Husbandry and Livestock, Nutricion, Copper age, Faunal Remains, Prehistoria, Antropología, Environmental Geochemistry, Chalcolithic, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Mortuary Practices, Geoarchaeology and Paleoenvironmental Reconstructions, Química, Isótopos estables, Archaeozoology, Prehistory, Stable Isotopes and Palaeoenvironment, Stable Isotopes and Palaeodiet, Arqueozoología. Edad del Cobre, Epipaleolítico, Neolítico. Península Ibérica y Mediterráneo., Arqueozoología, Tooth Enamel, Bioarchaeology, human & faunal osteology, Archaeozoology, Taphonomy, Animal Husbandary, Antropología de la alimentación, Oxygen Isotopes, Ganadería, Bioarchaeology, Biological Anthropology, Archaeology, Stable Carbon and Oxygen Isotopes, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, Bioarchaeology, Mortuary Archaeology, Alimentación, Human Osteology, Bioarchaeology, Mortuary Practices in European Neolithic and Copper Age, Archaeozoology of Mammals, Bioarchaeology, Osteology, Paleopathology, Agricultura Y Ganadería, Estudios sociales de la comida, la alimentación, la gastronomía., Historia de la alimentación, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), Análisis Isotópicos, Sociología De La Alimentación, Mortuary Science, Earth Science, Historia De La Gastronomía Y Alimentación, Archaeology - Archaeozoology, Edad del Cobre, Isótopos Estáveis, and Neolithic Ditches
"As part of a research project looking at the use of resources in Chalcolithic settlements in the region surrounding the site of Valencina de la Concepción, in the lower Guadalquivir Basin (Seville province, SW Spain) a new site named La... more
"As part of a research project looking at the use of resources in Chalcolithic settlements in the region surrounding the site of Valencina de la Concepción, in the lower Guadalquivir Basin (Seville province, SW Spain) a new site named La Loma del Real Tesoro (henceforth LRT) is being investigated. It consists of two different sectors with LRT-I measuring 6ha and LRT-II 8ha. In 2015 and 2016 LRT-II was investigated by means of surface survey, geophysical survey, geomorphological core drilling and targeted archaeological excavation. This study has led to the discovery of a major complex including six ditched enclosures, four of which are arranged in concentric fashion. This paper presents the preliminary results of this fieldwork, providing a basic description of the site within the context of other known ditched enclosures and ditched sites along the Guadalquivir River Valley. The study of material culture and organic remains, still under way, shows an abundant presence of ceramics, lithics, green stones, faunal remains and some isolated human remains, suggesting a complex pattern of use for this settlement."
Research Interests: History, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 11 moreChalcolithic Archaeology, Prehistoric Settlement, Archaeological Geophysics, Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Neolithic, Copper age, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Calcolítico, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
"In the last 10 years, research on the great Copper Age site of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain) has experienced major advances. New published studies have provided abundant data on the farming economy (especially animal... more
"In the last 10 years, research on the great Copper Age site of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain) has experienced major advances. New published studies have provided abundant data on the farming economy (especially animal husbandry) and on the supply and transformation of abiotic resources such as metals, rare rocks (flint, rock crystal, amber, cinnabar, variscite) and ivory. In this paper I review the state of the art of current research on the economy of the communities settled across the Lower Guadalquivir River in the Copper Age, focusing on strategic resources and their importance in the social organisation and cultural definition of these communities."
Research Interests: History, Economic History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, and 22 moreMediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Historia Social, Archaeology of Trade and Commerce, Historia, Copper age, Prehistoria, Prehistoric economies, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Megaliths, Prehistoric Economy, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), and Neoltihic Archaeology
In this paper a broad overview of the burial practices at the Copper Age mega-site of Valencina de la Concepción is offered. New bioarchaeological data from 20 funerary structures show that collective and individual in primary and... more
In this paper a broad overview of the burial practices at the Copper Age mega-site of Valencina de la Concepción is offered. New bioarchaeological data from 20 funerary structures show that collective and individual in primary and secondary positions were the common practices at the PP4-Montelirio sector. Although the bone remains are quite fragmented and the preservation is not optimal, they reflect the entire population from young subadults to mature adults. Most of the pathological conditions refer to oral pathologies likely related to diet. This is opening new interpretations of the social organisation, cultural practices and subsistence patterns of these communities during the 3rd millennium BC in the Lower Guadalquivir valley.
Research Interests: History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Bioarchaeology, and 25 moreMediterranean prehistory, Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Physical Anthropology, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Mediterranean archaeology, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Neolithic, Archaeology of burials, Copper age, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, Megaliths, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, Human Osteology, Bioarchaeology, Bioarchaeology, Osteology, Paleopathology, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
Study of the Iberian Copper Age has experienced a remarkable upheaval in the last two decades. The discovery in central and southwestern Iberia of a significant number of ditched enclosures, a site type almost unknown in this region until... more
Study of the Iberian Copper Age has experienced a remarkable upheaval in the last two decades. The discovery in central and southwestern Iberia of a significant number of ditched enclosures, a site type almost unknown in this region until the mid 1990s, has opened up new lines of research. Particularly interesting is the existence of some exceptionally large sites. Largest of all is Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), covering an area of 450 ha and featuring several outstanding megalithic monuments, thousands of pits and material assemblages revealing middle and long distance contacts. In this paper we discuss the implications of the Valencina mega-site for the study of settlement variability, monumentality and population aggregation as key phenomena in the rise in social complexity in Copper Age Iberia.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Mediterranean prehistory, Settlement Patterns, and 24 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Prehistoric Settlement, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Settlement archaeology, Neolithic, Early Urbanization, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Copper age, Prehistoria, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Late Neolithic, Megaliths, European Neolithic, Copper Age, Bronze Age, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
Rock crystal appears relatively frequently in Late Prehistoric Iberian sites, especially in the form of micro-blades and knapping debris. With some exceptions, however, these finds have seldom been looked into in any detail, and therefore... more
Rock crystal appears relatively frequently in Late Prehistoric Iberian sites, especially in the form of micro-blades and knapping debris. With some exceptions, however, these finds have seldom been looked into in any detail, and therefore little is known about the technology involved in the use of this material, its social and economic relevance or its symbolic significance. In this paper we examine a collection of rock crystal artefacts recently found at Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), one of the largest 3rd millennium BC sites in Western Europe. Among the objects included in this study are a long dagger blade, twenty-five arrowheads and a core, all of which form the most technically sophisticated and esthetically impressive collection of rock crystal material culture ever found in Prehistoric Iberia. Through the analysis of the procedures and techniques applied in the production of these objects , the chemical characterisation of the raw materials through Raman spectroscopy and RTI image processing and the careful assessment of the archaeological contexts in which they were found, this paper makes a robust contribution towards the study of the role of rock crystal in Copper Age technology and society. Recent research suggest that Valencina was a major node in the circulation of exotic materials such as ivory, amber, cinnabar or flint in Copper Age Iberia, which provides a very good background to assess the relevance of rock crystal as a traded commodity. In addition we discuss the role of rock crystal as a marker of status in large megalithic monuments, as well as its possible symbolic connotations.
Research Interests: Physical Geography, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geology, Crystallography, and 48 moreGeoarchaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Raman Spectroscopy, Quaternary Geology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Applied Geology, Megalithic Monuments, Lithic Technology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Lithics, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Raman spectroscopy applications, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Lithic Technology (Archaeology), Neolithic, Lithic Resource Identification, Lithic Industries, Archaeology, Lithic analysis and organization of technology, Megalithism, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Lithic Analysis, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Lithic Raw Material Sourcing, Análisis Lítico, Rock Crystal, Megaliths, Technologie Lithique, Recursos líticos, Quaternary Geoarchaeology, Lithic blade technology, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, Industries lithiques, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), Technolgie Lithique, Rock Crystal and Hardstones, Artefactos Líticos, Sources Lithiques De Matière Première, Typologie Lithique, Chrystallochemistry, Rock-crystal, Rock crystal in Antiquity, Analyse lithique, and Rock Crystal artifacts
In this chapter the main results of the scientific study presented in this volumen are discussed. The conclusiones are articulated around a wide series of themes, including: (i) temporality, diachrony and tempo, (ii) architecture and... more
In this chapter the main results of the scientific study presented in this volumen are discussed. The conclusiones are articulated around a wide series of themes, including: (i) temporality, diachrony and tempo, (ii) architecture and monumentality; (iii) demography; (iv) subsistence economy, (v) scales of production, technology and exchange; (vi) symbolism; and (vii) social complexity. In this wider context, Montelirio is connected with current debates around the Valencina de la Concepción Copper Age settlement and the lifeways of southern Iberian Copper Age societies.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Bioarchaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, and 26 moreFunerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Physical Anthropology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Inequality (Anthropology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Archaeology of Ritual and Magic, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Neolithic, Funerary Practices, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Copper age, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, Megaliths, Osteobiography, Ritual Practices, Bioarchaeology, Osteology, Paleopathology, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
This chapter provides a description of the main features on the Montelirio tholos, including its architecture, stratigraphy and deposits (both human remains and artefacts). First, a description is made of the elements, techniques and... more
This chapter provides a description of the main features on the Montelirio tholos, including its architecture, stratigraphy and deposits (both human remains and artefacts). First, a description is made of the elements, techniques and construction materials identified in each of the main spaces of this monument (atrium, corridor, large chamber, small chamber and mound), suggesting a functional as well as symbolic interpretation for them. Secondly, a general description of the human deposits and the grave goods found within all the various spaces of the monument is made, discussing their spatial distribution, associations and excavation process. Thirdly, a description is provided of the re-uses Montelirio undertook in the Iron Age and Antiquity, discussing their potential nature. The last section of this chapter undertakes a comparative assessment of Montelirio within the context of the tholos-type monuments known in Southwest Spain.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Architecture, Funerary Archaeology, and 22 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, History of Art, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, Prehistory, Antiquity, Neolithic, History of architecture, Funerary Practices, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Monumentality, Burial Customs, History of Art and Architecture, Megaliths, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
We present a study of the Montelirio tholos chronology based on 22 radiocarbon dates and their formal modelling through Bayesian statistics. After careful consideration of the limitations and problems inherent to each of the available 14... more
We present a study of the Montelirio tholos chronology based on 22 radiocarbon dates and their formal modelling through Bayesian statistics. After careful consideration of the limitations and problems inherent to each of the available 14 C dates, two alternative models of the temporality of this great megalithic monument are presented. The results suggest that Montelirio was built some time between the end of the 29 th and the end of the 28 th centuries cal BC, and that burial activity inside it may have taken place either as a result of a single event or as the product of various events in close temporal proximity (perhaps through a few decades). The discussion of these results includes references to the results of an extensive study of the chronology of Valencina de la Concepción, currently in press (García Sanjuán et al., In Press) in terms of the temporality of this large Copper Age settlement and the position of Montelirio in it.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 25 moreChalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Radiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Bayesian Radiocarbon Dating, North African prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Arqueología, Neolithic, Chronology, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Prehistoria, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Archaeology of death and burial, Tholos Tombs, Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), Burial Customs, and Megaliths
This chapter presents a comprehensive study of the knapped lithic industry found in the Montelirio tholos. First, a techno-morphological characterisation of the assemblage is made, looking at the distribution of the items in all three... more
This chapter presents a comprehensive study of the knapped lithic industry found in the Montelirio tholos. First, a techno-morphological characterisation of the assemblage is made, looking at the distribution of the items in all three main spaces inside the monument. Next, a lithological characterisation is made by means of a macroscopic examination and thin slide petrology, which determines the presence of flint from various provenances (Malaver, Turón and Milanos formations), as well as milonites and riolitas, each of them used to manufacture specific objects. A separate section is devoted to the set of rock crystal items, which is studied through Raman Confocal espectrometry. Finally, the result of the use-wear analysis are presented, proving that, with the exception of a blade showing cereal lustre, no knapped lithic object was used before being deposited in the tomb. Altogether, this study contributes a great deal of new data regarding the lithic industry, one the most poorly known aspects of the Valencina de la Concepción Copper Age settlement.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 35 moreChalcolithic Archaeology, Flint (Archaeology), Spanish archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Lithic Technology, Prehistoric Technology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistoric weapons, Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Lithics, Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, Stone artefacts (Archaeology), Neolithic flint procurement, Prehistory, Lithic Technology (Archaeology), Arqueología, Neolithic, Crafts and Technology, Flint Technology, Flint Mining, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Stone tools, Chalcolithic, Lithic Analysis, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Lithic Raw Material Sourcing, Flintknapping, Megaliths, Recursos líticos, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), and Artefactos Líticos
This paper presents a first approach to the ivory assemblage of the Montelirio tholos (Castilleja de Guzmán, Seville), a burial structure belonging to the Copper Age settlement of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville). Valencina is one of... more
This paper presents a first approach to the ivory assemblage of the Montelirio tholos (Castilleja de Guzmán, Seville), a burial structure belonging to the Copper Age settlement of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville). Valencina is one of the Iberian Chalcolithic sites with the largest concentration of ivory. At the same time, Montelirio has yielded a large amount of raw ivory without evidence of processing as well as a remarkable and varied collection of artefacts manufactured in this raw material. This assemblage is of great scientific value, both because of the amount of material involved as well as the technological, functional and contextual data it provides. In this paper we present a general description of this ivory collection and outline some brief preliminary remarks regarding the technological and functional dimension of these objects. The main aim is to present, for the first time, an overview of this ivory assemblage, one of the most important in the Iberian Copper Age.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 27 moreChalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Prehistoric Technology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, Ancient Trade & Commerce (Archaeology), Archaeology of Mediterranean Trade, North African prehistory (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Arqueología, Neolithic, Prehistoric Archeology, Copper age, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Late Neolithic, Megaliths, Ivory and bone technology, Ivory, Ivory Carving, Ivory and Bone Working, Bones Ivory Artefacts, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
A polished axe donated to the Valencina de la Concepción Museum (Seville, Spain) in November 2010, and that had belonged to Francisco María Tubino y Oliva’s (1833-1888) personal collection, is studied. Although the exact provenance of... more
A polished axe donated to the Valencina de la Concepción Museum (Seville, Spain) in November 2010, and that had belonged to Francisco María Tubino y Oliva’s (1833-1888) personal collection, is studied. Although the exact provenance of this object is unknown, there are reasons to think that it might have been found on some archaeological site of the Seville province. Through the application of two different analytical techniques (XRD, DCμRS), this axe is identified as a jade-jadeite of purity above 95 ml%, which necessarily implies it came from the Alps. In the conclusions a discussion of this artifact is made in terms of long distance contact in Iberian Late Prehistory.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geoarchaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 15 moreArchaeometry, Lithic Technology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistory, Lithic Technology (Archaeology), Jadeite Axe, Copper age, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Jade, Lithic Raw Material Sourcing, Alpine jadeitite axeheads, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
Taking as a point of departure the in-depth analysis and description of an exceptional discovery, consisting of a large hammered gold sheet decorated with embossed motifs from the well-known Chalcolithic settlement of Valencina de la... more
Taking as a point of departure the in-depth analysis and description of an exceptional discovery, consisting of a large hammered gold sheet decorated with embossed motifs from the well-known Chalcolithic settlement of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), this article presents a general appraisal of the social and ideological role of gold in Copper Age Iberia. The information available for this find, including both its context and its inherent characteristics, opens up new perspectives for research into the technology, use, sociology and symbolism of gold during this time period. We describe and analyse this unique item in detail, including the characterization of the raw material used and the manufacturing process (via SEM-BSE and LA-ICP-MS), as well as an extensive reconstruction of the graphic motifs that are represented, by using digital imaging processing techniques (RTI). We compare this find with the data currently available for the (approximately) 100 Chalco-lithic golden artefacts (or fragments of artefacts) found in Iberia to date. Finally, we present an appraisal of the social and ideological framework in which gold was used in Copper Age Iberia, discussing its relevance in aspects such as the dynamics of social complexity, worldviews or artistic creations.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Art History, History of Religion, Mediterranean prehistory, and 22 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Archaeometallurgy, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, Prehistory, Neolithic, Prehistoric Figurines, Ancient Metallurgy, Copper age, Chalcolithic, Chalcolithic Metallurgy, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Megaliths, Gold mining, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
"Restaurierung von archäologischem Elfenbein am Beispiel von vier chalkolithischen Elfenbeinobjekte aus der Siedlung von Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla)" ["Restoration of archaeological ivory using four chalcolithic ivory objects from the settlement of Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla)"]more
As an indicator of long distance contact and social complexity, ivory has revealed itself as an important raw material for Iberian prehistoric research . However, the scientific potential of prehistoric ivory objects is often hampered by... more
As an indicator of long distance contact and social complexity, ivory has revealed itself as an important raw material for Iberian prehistoric research . However, the scientific potential of prehistoric ivory objects is often hampered by preservation issues. This article presents the preservation-restoration project of four exceptional Copper Age ivory objects found at Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), a major site for the study of the 3rd and 2nd millennia BC in Iberia. The criteria and methods used throughout this project are described, suggesting the paramount importance of conservation and restauration measures in the study of prehistoric ivory. This project led us to the discovery that one of the objects involved is the handle of a dagger also comprising a rock crystal blade, while another large ivory object is suspected to be the scabbard of the dagger. Altogether, this multi-part ivory artefact turns out to be unparalleled in Iberian or Western European Late Prehistory.
Research Interests: Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Restoration, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), and 16 moreArchaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Mediterranean archaeology, Ancient Trade & Commerce (Archaeology), Archaeology of Mediterranean Trade, Science for Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage, Elephants, Conservación y Restauración, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Copper age, Asian Elephants in Culture and History, Conservation and Restoration, Asian elephant, Ivory and bone technology, Ivory, Ivory Carving, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
Because of its great potential to provide data on contacts and overseas trade, ivory has aroused a great deal of interest since the very start of research into Iberian late prehistory. Research recently undertaken by the German... more
Because of its great potential to provide data on contacts and overseas trade, ivory has aroused a great deal of interest since the very start of research into Iberian late prehistory. Research recently undertaken by the German Archaeological Institute in Madrid in collaboration with a number of other institutions has provided valuable contributions to the study of ivory in the Iberian Copper Age and Early Bronze Age. One of the archaeological sites that is contributing the most data for analysing ivory from the Copper Age in southern Iberia is Valencina de la Concepcion (Seville), which is currently the focus of several debates on the development of social complexity. This article contributes to this line of research by providing new, unpublished evidence and by examining the significance of ivory craftsmanship in commercial, social and ideological terms. It also assesses in greater detail the prominent part played by luxury ivory items as an expression of social status and power."
Research Interests: Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Bone and Antler, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 27 moreMegalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Craft production (Archaeology), Ancient Trade & Commerce (Archaeology), Archaeology of Mediterranean Trade, North African prehistory (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Bone Technology (Archaeology), Elephants, Copper age, Asian Elephants in Culture and History, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Calcolítico, Complex Society, Social Inequality, Prehistoric Archaeology, Asian elephant, Ivory and bone technology, Ivory, Ivory Carving, ivory trade, African elephants, Mortuary Practices in European Neolithic and Copper Age, Ivory and Bone Working, Worked Bone Technology, Understanding Human Elephant Interaction, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
Research Interests: Collective Behavior, Self-Organization, State Formation, Complex Systems, Neolithic Archaeology, and 13 moreNeolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Social Organisation (Archaeology), Megalithic Monuments, Social Evolution, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Anthropology of the State, Megaliths (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Cooperation, Social Complexity, Copper age, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
The use of red pigments linked to burial practices is widely documented in the Iberian prehistoric record and very often it has been traditionally interpreted as a ritual practice entailing the utilisation of local raw materials (iron... more
The use of red pigments linked to burial practices is widely documented in the Iberian prehistoric record and very often it has been traditionally interpreted as a ritual practice entailing the utilisation of local raw materials (iron oxides). Some research works, nevertheless, have also detected the use of red pigments which can only be interpreted as allochthonous. The red pigments spread over a single inhumation in a monumental Megalithic tomb surrounding Valencina de la Concepción Copper Age settlement was studied by means of X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray microfluorescence, micro-Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopies. This approach allowed characterising the red pigments as cinnabar, mixed with tiny amounts of iron oxides. The presence of cinnabar, a product that was necessarily imported, in a context of an exceptional set of grave goods, suggests that the use of cinnabar was linked not only to ritual but also to practices related to the display of social status.
Research Interests: Religion, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geology, Art History, Geoarchaeology, and 74 moreHistory of Religion, Death Studies, Mediterranean prehistory, Funerary Archaeology, Quaternary Geology, History of Religions, Ancient Religion, Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Archaeometry, History of Art, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Prehistoric Technology, Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Prehistoric Art, Pigments (Chemistry), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Funerary Architecture, Prehistoric Rock Art, Archaeology of burials, Funerary Practices, Prehistoric Archeology, Antropología cultural, Historia del Arte, Funeral Archaeology, Copper age, Prehistoria, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Antropología, Archaeology of death and burial, Geología, Calcolítico, Burial Customs, Pinturas Rupestres, Geoarchaeological provenancing, Pigments, History of Pigments, Geologia, Funeral Monuments, Sedimentology, Geomorphology, Geoarchaeology, Chamber Graves, Historia y Teoria del Arte y la Arquitectura, Funerals, Quaternary Geoarchaeology, Pintura mural, Ceremonial funerals, Early Holocene Geoarchaeology, Conservación Pintura Mural, Funeral Rites, Archaeology of the Funeral Ritual, Prehistoria Reciente, Passage Graves, The Sociology of Death, Dying and Funerals, Rocks, Cinnabar, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), Anthropology of Religion, Culture and death, Historia De Las Religiones, Pigmentos Naturales, Funeral Customs, Geoarchéologie, Analysis of Pigments on Ancient Artifacts, and Cinabrio
This paper presents a general overview of the current state of the art of archaeological research at the Valencina de la Concepción Copper Age site. The main aim is to put the contributions presented in this volume within a general... more
This paper presents a general overview of the current state of the art of archaeological research at the Valencina de la Concepción Copper Age site. The main aim is to put the contributions presented in this volume within a general perspective, with special reference to ongoing debates and promising avenues of research. First, a review is made of the research history of this site, assessing the general conditions of the currently available empirical evidence. Second, a series of topics are discussed, including the spatial organisation of the settlement, its chronology, subsistence economy, metallurgy, exchange and social complexity.
Research Interests: Demography, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Bioarchaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, and 49 moreFunerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Pottery, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Physical Anthropology, Prehistoric religion and r ritual a, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Prehistoric Settlement, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Evolution, Chiefdoms (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Social Inequality (Anthropology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, North African prehistory (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Arqueología, Funerary Architecture, Neolithic, Archaeology of burials, Funerary Practices, Prehistoric Archeology, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Evolution of Social Complexity, Copper age, Prehistoria, Chalcolithic, Chalcolithic Metallurgy, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Archaeology of death and burial, Monumentality, Calcolítico, Burial Customs, Neolítico, Megaliths, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, Neolithic enclosures, Mortuary Practices in European Neolithic and Copper Age, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), and RECINTOS DE FOSOS
"Prácticas funerarias en estructuras negativas en el asentamiento prehistórico de Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla, España): análisis contextual y osteoarqueológico." ["Burial practices in negative features at the prehistoric settlement of Valencina: Contextual and osteoarchaeological analysis."]more
The Copper Age site of Valencina de la Concepción is of key importance for the study of the 3rd and 2nd millennia BC in southern Iberia. Its importance resides as much in its intrinsic features (size and diversity of contexts) as in the... more
The Copper Age site of Valencina de la Concepción is of key importance for the study of the 3rd and 2nd millennia BC in southern Iberia. Its importance resides as much in its intrinsic features (size and diversity of contexts) as in the remarkable number of archaeological excavations carried out during the last three decades. These excavations have revealed a rich and diverse archaeological record that, paradoxically, has seldom been subject to careful scientific analysis. In this paper we review a series of negative features (non-megalithic) in which human remains have been found. We discuss the results of the osteological analysis of this material while at the same time reassessing the functional and sociological nature of these negative structures.
Research Interests:
The rescue excavation carried out between 2007 and 2008 at the PP4-Montelirio sector of the Valencina de la Concepción-Castilleja de Guzmán settlement encompassed an extension of 18,878 m² and led to the discovery of around 200... more
The rescue excavation carried out between 2007 and 2008 at the PP4-Montelirio sector of the Valencina de la Concepción-Castilleja de Guzmán settlement encompassed an extension of 18,878 m² and led to the discovery of around 200 prehistoric and Roman features. Out of 134 excavated Copper Age features,
61 have been classified as funerary, for they contain human remains, while the remaining 73 have been classified as no-funerary (no human remains were found). As a result of the classification and inventorying work carried out since January 2011 at the Seville Archaeology Museum by the Research Group Atlas (HUM-694) of the University of Seville, in this paper we present a synthesis of the main formal characteristics of those features, as well as an assessment of their significance for the understanding of 3rd millennium BC Valencina de la Concepción.
61 have been classified as funerary, for they contain human remains, while the remaining 73 have been classified as no-funerary (no human remains were found). As a result of the classification and inventorying work carried out since January 2011 at the Seville Archaeology Museum by the Research Group Atlas (HUM-694) of the University of Seville, in this paper we present a synthesis of the main formal characteristics of those features, as well as an assessment of their significance for the understanding of 3rd millennium BC Valencina de la Concepción.
Research Interests:
In this paper 14 beads manufactured in green stone are analysed. These beads were found by Francisco Collantes de Terán in the excavations carried out in the 1950s at the megalithic monument of Matarrubilla, which is part of the Copper... more
In this paper 14 beads manufactured in green stone are analysed. These beads were found by Francisco Collantes de Terán in the excavations carried out in the 1950s at the megalithic monument of Matarrubilla, which is part of the Copper Age site of Valencina de la Concepción-Castilleja de Guzmán (Seville) (Collantes de Terán, 1969). These items are currently on display in the Archaeology Museum of Seville. The analysis by means of x-ray diffraction and x-ray fluorescence allows a geochemical characterisation of these beads. The data obtained are then compared with those of the Pico Centeno (Huelva, Spain) and Palazuelo de las Cuevas (Zamora, Spain) mines as well as beads from other Copper Age sites such as La Pijotilla, Perdigões (Odriozola Lloret et al., 2010c), São Pedro and Anta Grande de Zambujeiro. As a result, an interpretation is proposed concerning the possible origin of the stone used to manufacture these beads.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Archaeometry, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), and 5 moreArchaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Copper age, Late Neolithic Copper Age Personal Ornaments Beads Pendents Bracelets Jewelry Portugal Spain Iberia Social Complexity Craft Specialization Political Economy Exchange Exotic Raw Materials Ivory Variscite Slate Plaques, Stone beads, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
The use of amber has been archaeologically documented in the Iberian Peninsula since the Upper Paleolithic (Aguirre Ruiz de Gopegui, 1998-2000; Álvarez et al., 2005; Peñalver et al., 2007; etc.) and has been a frequent subject of study in... more
The use of amber has been archaeologically documented in the Iberian Peninsula since the Upper Paleolithic (Aguirre Ruiz de Gopegui, 1998-2000; Álvarez et al., 2005; Peñalver et al., 2007; etc.) and has been a frequent subject of study in research on trade and long distance exchange. However, these pproaches, especially in Iberia, usually lack of analytical studies on amber composition and provenance. After Siret’s first attempt to determine amber provenance based on the amount of succinic acid in 1913, we do not have analytical studies until a century later, on the first years of the 21st century. And even today, analytical studies on amber are still scarce. In this paper we present an especially singular amber object recovered at the PP4-Montelirio excavations whose analysis by Fourier Transformed Infra-Red spectroscopy (now on FTIR) revealed a Sicilian origin. This constitutes another evidence of the implications of Valencina de la Concepción on Mediterranean long distance exchange during the Copper Age.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Archaeological Science, Neolithic Archaeology, and 24 moreNeolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Archaeometry, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Archaeological Chemistry, Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Neolithic, Amber, Culture Contact, Prehistoric Archeology, Copper age, Prehistoria, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Prehistoric Trade Networks, Bronze Age Amber Trade, Daggers, Prehistoric amber, Amber Trade, Flint Daggers, Glass Beads and Amber in Bronze Age, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
The major Copper Age settlement of Valencina de la Concepción has been the subject of research interest over more than a century. The history of previous investigations at the site has resulted in a heterogeneous archaeological record... more
The major Copper Age settlement of Valencina de la Concepción has been the subject of research interest over more than a century. The history of previous investigations at the site has resulted in a heterogeneous archaeological record that is particularly diffi cult and that displays significant gaps and problems. In this paper, we present the results of a geophysical survey carried out in December 2004 between the La Pastora and Montelirio sectors of this site in response to a proposed road development that was never put into practice, and which revealed several previously unknown features. These data are assessed in the light of the results obtained from the excavation carried out between 2007 and 2008 at the immediately adjacent sector of PP4-Montelirio, currently under study by us, where several dozen prehistoric features (both, non-megalithic and megalithic, funerary and non-funerary), were found. Altogether, this new evidence makes a signifi cant contribution to the spatial interpretation
of the Valencina de la Concepción site, particularly as they convey the fi rst-ever cartography of a large area of this settlement. From this evidence, a discussion is made concerning the density and diversity of the features identifi ed both between La Pastora and Montelirio as well as at the PP4-Montelirio sector, their potential patterns and sequence. This raises questions regarding the traditional separation of the site into ‘settlement’ and ‘necropolis’ areas and contributes more generally to a better understanding of the spatial organisation of this large prehistoric settlement.
of the Valencina de la Concepción site, particularly as they convey the fi rst-ever cartography of a large area of this settlement. From this evidence, a discussion is made concerning the density and diversity of the features identifi ed both between La Pastora and Montelirio as well as at the PP4-Montelirio sector, their potential patterns and sequence. This raises questions regarding the traditional separation of the site into ‘settlement’ and ‘necropolis’ areas and contributes more generally to a better understanding of the spatial organisation of this large prehistoric settlement.
Research Interests: Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Prehistoric Settlement, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), and 9 moreArchaeological Prospection, Archaeological Geophysics, Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Settlement archaeology, Geofísica, Copper age, Magnetometry, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), and Archeological Prospection, Magnetometry
This paper presents the results obtained from a review of the archaeological record available for the prehistoric site of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), one of the most important settlements of SW Iberia in the 3rd and 2nd... more
This paper presents the results obtained from a review of the archaeological record available for the prehistoric site of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), one of the most important settlements of SW Iberia in the 3rd and 2nd millennia BC. Two main variables, namely demography and metallurgical production, are examined in the light of both conventional and spatial statistical methods (with particular emphasis on significance testing) with the aim of assessing the wider issue of social complexity. Among the various conclusions emerging from this empirical study, two stand out. Firstly, neither the correlation between the total extension of the settlement and the complexity of its internal organisation, nor the spatial delimitation
between domestic/productive and funerary practices is as straightforward as previously claimed. Secondly, no simple, clear-cut statistical patterns are found in the spatial distribution of human remains or metal objects. These conclusions
provide the basis for a critique of currently held interpretations of Valencina de la Concepción as the political centre of an early state extending across the lower Guadalquivir valley.
between domestic/productive and funerary practices is as straightforward as previously claimed. Secondly, no simple, clear-cut statistical patterns are found in the spatial distribution of human remains or metal objects. These conclusions
provide the basis for a critique of currently held interpretations of Valencina de la Concepción as the political centre of an early state extending across the lower Guadalquivir valley.
Research Interests: Spatial Analysis, State Formation, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, and 6 moreGeo-spatial analysis with GIS and GPS, Anthropology of the State, Megaliths (Archaeology), Settlement archaeology, Copper age, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
The rescue excavation carried out at the prehistoric site of Marinaleda (Marinaleda, Sevilla) during the summer of 2001 represents the first systematic exploration of an archaeological site that, for more than 25 years, has suffered a... more
The rescue excavation carried out at the prehistoric site of Marinaleda (Marinaleda, Sevilla) during the summer of 2001 represents the first systematic exploration of an archaeological site that, for more than 25 years, has suffered a series of partial destructions caused by construction work lacking archaeological monitoring. Thanks to the 2001 intervention, a preliminary characterisation of the morphology, density and functionality of the structures existing in this large Copper Age settlement has been possible. Among these structures there are large ditches, stone walls, underground structures (dwellings, storage facilities, rubbish pits) and post-hole alignments. This report includes a general description of the structures identified during the excavation as well as a general assessment from a chronological and functional viewpoint.
Research Interests:
Co-authored with M. Cintas Peña; M. E. Costa Caramé; M. Díaz-Guardamino Uribe; M. Díaz-Zorita Bonilla; J. M. Durán Moreno; V. Fuentes Mateos; V. Hurtado Pérez; M. Luciañez Triviño; C. Mora Molina; M. Murillo-Barroso; C. Odriozola Lloret;... more
Co-authored with M. Cintas Peña; M. E. Costa Caramé; M. Díaz-Guardamino Uribe; M. Díaz-Zorita Bonilla; J. M. Durán Moreno; V. Fuentes Mateos; V. Hurtado Pérez; M. Luciañez Triviño; C. Mora Molina; M. Murillo-Barroso; C. Odriozola Lloret; J. Peinado Cucarella; S. Robles Carrasco; M. Á. Rogerio Candelera; D. W. Wheatley
Research Interests:
ENGLISH: "The investigation of the Iberian megalithic phenomenon has only recently begun to benefit from the expansion of the technical and scientific potential of modern archaeology. There are still very few Iberian megaliths for which... more
ENGLISH: "The investigation of the Iberian megalithic phenomenon has only recently begun to benefit from the expansion of the technical and scientific potential of modern archaeology. There are still very few Iberian megaliths for which high resolution scientific research has been carried out, providing detailed data on their design, uses and biographies. This paper presents the results of the multidisciplinary study of the Palacio III tholos, part of a larger megalithic complex located in Almadén de la Plata (Seville). This study is based on a wide-spectrum methodology that integrates geoarchae-ology, techno-morphological and functional analysis of portable material culture and graphic analysis, all combined within a meticulously contextual perspective. The results provide a wealth of data on how, through a series of carefully constructed cultural choices, this monument represents a true place of encounter between the locally available geological resources and other resources that were only accessible through contact with neighbouring communities. Whether in its raw state, finely carved in the form of engraved and painted sculptures or transformed into artefacts of high technical and personal value, the materiality of the stone in the Palacio III tholos acquires multiple cultural dimensions that only a modern scientific approach is able to reconstruct."
ESPAÑOL: "Solo recientemente la investigación del fenómeno megalítico ibérico ha comenzado a beneficiarse de la ampliación del potencial técnico y científico de la arqueología moderna. Todavía son muy pocos los megalitos ibéricos para los que se han realizado investigaciones científicas de alta resolución, capaces de aportar datos detallados sobre su diseño, usos y biografías. En este trabajo se presentan los resultados del estudio del tholos del complejo megalítico de Palacio III (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla), abordado mediante una metodología multidisciplinar que integra la geoarqueología, el estudio tecnomorfológico y funcional de la cultura material portable y el análisis gráfico, dentro de una meticulosa valoración contextual. Los resultados aportan datos muy novedosos respecto a cómo, a través de una serie de elecciones culturales cuidadosamente construidas, este monumento representa un verdadero lugar de encuentro entre los recursos geológicos localmente disponibles y los recursos accesibles mediante contacto con otras comunidades. Bien en su forma bruta, bien labrada en forma de esculturas grabadas y pintadas o transformada en artefactos de alto valor técnico y personal, la materialidad de la piedra adquiere en Palacio III múltiples dimensiones culturales que solo a través de la moderna investigación científica es posible reconstruir. "
ESPAÑOL: "Solo recientemente la investigación del fenómeno megalítico ibérico ha comenzado a beneficiarse de la ampliación del potencial técnico y científico de la arqueología moderna. Todavía son muy pocos los megalitos ibéricos para los que se han realizado investigaciones científicas de alta resolución, capaces de aportar datos detallados sobre su diseño, usos y biografías. En este trabajo se presentan los resultados del estudio del tholos del complejo megalítico de Palacio III (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla), abordado mediante una metodología multidisciplinar que integra la geoarqueología, el estudio tecnomorfológico y funcional de la cultura material portable y el análisis gráfico, dentro de una meticulosa valoración contextual. Los resultados aportan datos muy novedosos respecto a cómo, a través de una serie de elecciones culturales cuidadosamente construidas, este monumento representa un verdadero lugar de encuentro entre los recursos geológicos localmente disponibles y los recursos accesibles mediante contacto con otras comunidades. Bien en su forma bruta, bien labrada en forma de esculturas grabadas y pintadas o transformada en artefactos de alto valor técnico y personal, la materialidad de la piedra adquiere en Palacio III múltiples dimensiones culturales que solo a través de la moderna investigación científica es posible reconstruir. "
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geology, Anthropology, Art History, and 15 moreArchitecture, Geoarchaeology, Quaternary Geology, History of Art, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Lithic Technology, Anthropology of Death, Lithics, Lithic Technology (Archaeology), Prehistoric Rock Art, History of architecture, Rock Art, Historia del Arte, Lithic Raw Material Sourcing, and Art and Art History
"Greenstones were a pervasive presence in the material culture of Iberian Late Prehistory. Mostly in the form of perforated beads or pendants, stones such as variscite and, to a lesser degree chlorite, talc, sericite, steatite, muscovite... more
"Greenstones were a pervasive presence in the material culture of Iberian Late Prehistory. Mostly in the form of perforated beads or pendants, stones such as variscite and, to a lesser degree chlorite, talc, sericite, steatite, muscovite or fluorite were a common occurrence in burial contexts, particularly in the 4th and 3rd millennia cal BC. Other green stones, such as jadeite or serpentine, were used to manufacture other artefacts, especially polished axes, but they occur much more rarely. Most rare of all, however, is the green prase quartz monocrystal studied in this contribution. This exceptional item was found as part of a hoard (including also silver rings, Baltic amber beads, carnelian and rock crystal) dating to the Early Iron Age (c. 850–600 cal BC) that was located below one of the fallen uprights of a much older megalithic monument at the Palacio III megalithic complex. We analyze this item from the point of view of its mineralogy and chemical composition (through XRD and SEM), comparing it to a set of samples from a nearby location where unpublished outcrops of this mineral have been identified by us, as well as its use-wear. As a result, this remarkable object can be understood to have been produced locally, and have been used as a personal amulet or charm over a long period of time, in line with the extended biography of the megalithic complex where it was discovered."
Research Interests: Geology, Mineralogy, Geoarchaeology, Memory Studies, Cultural Memory, and 14 moreMegalithic Monuments, Lithic Technology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Lithics, Megaliths (Archaeology), Craft production (Archaeology), Iron Age (Archaeology), Lithic Technology (Archaeology), Quartz industries, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Lithic Raw Material Sourcing, and Geologia
Cultural contact, exchange and interaction feature high in the list of challenging topics of current research on European Prehistory. Not far off is the issue of the changing role of monuments in the making and maintaining of key cultural... more
Cultural contact, exchange and interaction feature high in the list of challenging topics of current research on European Prehistory. Not far off is the issue of the changing role of monuments in the making and maintaining of key cultural devices such as memory and identity. Addressing both these highly debated issues from a science-based perspective, in this paper we look at an unusual case study set in southern Iberia and illustrate how these archaeological questions can benefit from robust materials science approaches. We present the contextual, morphological and analytical study of an exceptional Early Iron Age hoard composed of a number of different (and mostly exotic) materials such as amber, quartz, silver and ceramic. This hoard, found under the fallen orthostat of a megalithic structure built at least 2000 years earlier, throws new light on long-distance exchange networks and the effect they could have had on the cultural identities and social relations of local Iberian Early Iron Age communities. Moreover, the archaeometric study reveals how diverse and distant the sources of these item are (Northern Europe to Eastern and Western Mediterranean raw materials, as well as local and eastern technologies), therefore raising questions concerning the social mechanisms used to establish change and resistance in contexts of colonial encounter.
Research Interests: Religion, Comparative Religion, History, Economic History, Sociology of Religion, and 84 moreArchaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geology, Art History, Geoarchaeology, History of Religion, Mediterranean prehistory, Phoenicians, Human Memory, History and Memory, Oral history, Historical memory, Oral Traditions, Quaternary Geology, History of Religions, Ancient Religion, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Commemoration and Memory, Collective Memory, Applied Geology, Social History, Megalithic Monuments, Social Memory, Beliefs, Ancient myth and religion, Lithic Technology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Lithics, Megaliths (Archaeology), Memory and materiality, Iron Age (Archaeology), Phoenician Punic Archaeology, Prehistory, Lithic Technology (Archaeology), Protohistory, Iron Age, Amber, Memory, Ancient Metallurgy, Oral History and Memory, Historia, Quartz industries, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Early Iron Age, Remembrance, Death and Dying, Mourning and Remembrance, Late Bronze Age, Early Iron Age, Quartz, Silver, Hoards, Hoard finds, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Lithic Analysis, Ancient Jewelry, Monumentality, Geoarchaeology and Paleoenvironmental Reconstructions, Geología, History of Jewelry, Art Jewelry, Geoarqueología, Politics of Memory, Monuments, Social Remembering, Megaliths, Silversmithing, Archaeology Iberian Prehistory Iron Age, Jewelry, Geoarchaeology, Soils and Paleoclimate, Hoarding, Quaternary Geoarchaeology, Baltic amber, Phoenician trade, Anthropology of Religion, Iron Age Metal Hoards, Hoards and Ritual Deposits, Culture of Remembrance, Remembering, Ancient Iron Metallurgy, Memory and Remembrance, and Archaeology of hoarding
This paper proposes a material science-based study to the ceramic assemblage from the Palacio III (Sevilla, Spain) Copper Age tholos tomb, which is part of a larger prehistoric funerary complex that also includes a passage grave and a... more
This paper proposes a material science-based study to the ceramic assemblage from the Palacio III (Sevilla, Spain) Copper Age tholos tomb, which is part of a larger prehistoric funerary complex that also includes a passage grave and a cremation cairn. This study examines the existence of relationships between the chemical composition of the vessels, their morphology and stratigraphic context, looking at the use of ceramics as votive offerings and their change over time.
Research Interests:
There is in Spain a long tradition of studies regarding Prehistoric Landscape and over the past thirty years, there have been a number of theories about the emergence and function of the Megalithic monuments among other elements, such as... more
There is in Spain a long tradition of studies regarding Prehistoric Landscape and over the past thirty years, there have been a number of theories about the emergence and function of the Megalithic monuments among other elements, such as paths and trails in the archaeological landscape.
From the general revision of the traditional literature on the topic, there are two main hypotheses that have arisen for the interpretation of the megalithic monuments and their function. The first hypothesis suggests that the megalithic monuments had not only a ritual and symbolic function, but also played an important role as status establishers between communities [1 and 2]. On the other hand, other researchers have suggested that beyond these functions, the delineation of the transhumance routes could be influenced by a series of natural and social factors and the megalithic monuments had the function of “markers” in the landscape [3 and 4].
From the general revision of the traditional literature on the topic, there are two main hypotheses that have arisen for the interpretation of the megalithic monuments and their function. The first hypothesis suggests that the megalithic monuments had not only a ritual and symbolic function, but also played an important role as status establishers between communities [1 and 2]. On the other hand, other researchers have suggested that beyond these functions, the delineation of the transhumance routes could be influenced by a series of natural and social factors and the megalithic monuments had the function of “markers” in the landscape [3 and 4].
Research Interests:
This paper examines an assemblage of quartz objects, such as crystals (rock crystal and prase) and pebbles, that were found in two spatially and chronologically different contexts of the Palacio III megalithic complex (Almadén de la... more
This paper examines an assemblage of quartz objects, such as crystals (rock crystal and prase) and pebbles, that were found in two spatially and chronologically different contexts of the Palacio III megalithic complex (Almadén de la Plata, Seville, Spain) excavated by the universities of Seville and Southampton between 2001 and 2002. Firstly, these objects are described macroscopically from a mineralogical and crystallographic point of view. When possible, samples are studied by X-ray diffraction and SEM in order to determine their mineralogical and chemical composition. Secondly, other similar instances, in which quartz and rock crystal objects have been found among the grave goods of funerary contexts of southern Iberian, are described. Finally, we suggest a series of interpretations for these objects, both from a functional as well as a symbolical perspective, assessing the significance of their presence in spatially discrete and chrono-culturally distant contexts.
Research Interests: Religion, Geography, Physical Geography, Prehistoric Archaeology, Geology, and 70 moreMineralogy, Anthropology, Geoarchaeology, History of Religion, Mediterranean prehistory, History and Memory, Architectural History, Funerary Archaeology, History of Religions, Ancient Religion, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Collective Memory, History of Art, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Landscapes in prehistory, Petrology and Geochemistry, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Ancient myth and religion, Lithic Technology, Prehistoric Technology, Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Lithics, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Lithic Technology (Archaeology), Funerary Architecture, Neolithic, History of architecture, Lithic Industries, Quartz industries, Archaeology of burials, Funerary Practices, Prehistoric Archeology, Quartz, Copper age, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Chalcolithic, Lithic Analysis, Archaeology of death and burial, Archaeometallurgy, Mineralogy, Archaeometry, Geología, Lithic Raw Material Sourcing, Crystallography and Mineralogy, Burial Customs, Geoarqueología, History of Art and Architecture, History of Arts, Rock Crystal, Mineralogy Geology, Quaternary Geoarchaeology, European Neolithic, Copper Age, Bronze Age, Anthropology of Religion, Mineralogía, Cultural Heritage Funerary, Rock Crystal and Hardstones, Mineralogia y Petrografía, Rock-crystal, Rock crystal in Antiquity, and Rock Crystal artifacts
This paper describes the results of the fieldwork stage (2000-2002) of a project dealing with the megalithic phenomenon in Almadén de la Plata (Sevilla, Andalusia, Spain), carried out jointly by the universities of Seville and... more
This paper describes the results of the fieldwork stage (2000-2002) of a project dealing with the megalithic phenomenon in Almadén de la Plata (Sevilla, Andalusia, Spain), carried out jointly by the universities of Seville and Southampton. On the one hand,
this project aims to understand the spatial and landscape dimensions of the megalithic monuments of this region, where the density and diversity of such monuments is very high. This has involved systematic surface survey of a number of designated areas in order to provide the empirical basis from which to understand spatial distributions (relationships between the monuments themselves, between the monuments and settlement areas and between monuments and landscape features). On the other hand, this project is looking at aspects of the internal organisation of megalithic burials in the area. Thus excavations carried out at the site of Dolmen de Palacio III have permitted the retrieval and recording of an almost completely intact Copper Age tholos tomb, as well as providing extremely useful information about patterns of re-use of the monument between the Neolithic and the Iron Age.
this project aims to understand the spatial and landscape dimensions of the megalithic monuments of this region, where the density and diversity of such monuments is very high. This has involved systematic surface survey of a number of designated areas in order to provide the empirical basis from which to understand spatial distributions (relationships between the monuments themselves, between the monuments and settlement areas and between monuments and landscape features). On the other hand, this project is looking at aspects of the internal organisation of megalithic burials in the area. Thus excavations carried out at the site of Dolmen de Palacio III have permitted the retrieval and recording of an almost completely intact Copper Age tholos tomb, as well as providing extremely useful information about patterns of re-use of the monument between the Neolithic and the Iron Age.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, and 16 moreDeath and Burial (Archaeology), Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Neolithic, Iron Age, History of architecture, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Tholos Tombs, Megaliths, and Archaeology Iberian Prehistory Iron Age
"Grandes piedras viejas, memoria y pasado: Reutilizaciones del dolmen de Palacio III (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla) durante la Edad del Hierro." ["Old Large Stones, Memory and the Past. Re-Utilisations of the Palacio III Megalithic Complex in the Iron Age (Almadén de la Plata, Seville, Spain)."]more
This paper presents a case of funerary re-utilisation of the Dolmen de Palacio III megalithic monument (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla) by the Early Iron Age communities of the Sierra Norte de Sevilla region. This case is first discussed as... more
This paper presents a case of funerary re-utilisation of the Dolmen de Palacio III megalithic monument (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla) by the Early Iron Age communities of the Sierra Norte de Sevilla region. This case is first discussed as evidence of the strong durability of religious traditions among the local populations as opposed to the dynamics of orientalising influences to which Andalusian indigenous communities are exposed since the IXth century cal BC. Secondly, this case is interpreted from the viewpoint of the powerful permanence through time of megalithic monuments as material expressions of the religious memory
Research Interests: Religion, History, Ancient History, Economic History, Sociology of Religion, and 49 moreArt History, History of Religion, History and Memory, Ancient Religion, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Commemoration and Memory, Collective Memory, Social History, Megalithic Monuments, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Iron Age (Archaeology), Bronze And Iron Age In Mediterrarranean (Archaeology), Ancient jewellery, Iron Age, Amber, Jewellery, Early Iron Age, Iron Age archaeology, Hoards, Hoard finds, Megalithic Art, Archaeological Amber, Bronze Age Amber Trade, Orientalizing Period (art & archaeology), Amber Road, Art History, Jewellery History, Rock Crystal, Memoria, Silversmithing, Prehistoric amber, Hoarding, Carnelian, Baltic amber, Carnelian Ring and Bead, Prehistoric hoards and votive deposits, Anthropology of Religion, Iron Age Metal Hoards, Carnelian Bead Production, Rock Crystal and Hardstones, Amber Beads, Rock-crystal, Carnelian Beads, Rock crystal in Antiquity, and Rock Crystal artifacts
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Landscape Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 8 moreMegalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistory, Iron Age, Archaeological survey, and Copper age
Se presenta el estudio arqueométrico de una serie de artefactos de carácter cultual hallados en conexión espacial con construcciones funerarias prehistóricas, durante el transcurso de una campaña de prospecciones de superficie realizada... more
Se presenta el estudio arqueométrico de una serie de artefactos de carácter cultual hallados en conexión espacial con construcciones funerarias prehistóricas, durante el transcurso de una campaña de prospecciones de superficie realizada en el verano de 2000 en la localidad de Almadén de la Plata (Sevilla). La investigación en la que este hallazgo se enmarca tiene como objetivo la interpretación de la dimensión espacial (territorial y paisajística) de los diversos núcleos de construcciones megalíticas presentes en la zona, por lo que las prospecciones de superficie se han dirigido específicamente a la identificación de lugares de habitación, producción y reproducción ideológica asociados a los monumentos megalíticos (previamente desconocidos). Los artefactos analizados en este trabajo fueron hallados en superficie en conexión espacial con varias estructuras funerarias megalíticas nuevas identificadas en el transcurso de dicha campaña. El estudio arqueométrico permite avanzar una serie de interpretaciones de carácter tecnológico y funcional sobre estos artefactos culturales.
Research Interests:
Se describen los resultados principales obtenidos tras la campaña de prospecciones de superficie realizada en el municipio de Almadén de la Plata (Sevilla). Estas prospecciones tienen como objetivo fundamental proporcionar un marco... more
Se describen los resultados principales obtenidos tras la campaña de prospecciones de superficie realizada en el municipio de Almadén de la Plata (Sevilla). Estas prospecciones tienen como objetivo fundamental proporcionar un marco empírico básico sobre pautas de ocupación del espacio que sirva de apoyo a un proyecto de puesta en valor de las construcciones megalíticas de la zona. Las prospecciones revelan la alta densidad de yacimientos arqueológicos prehistóricos en la zona, indicando la necesidad de acometer el reconocimiento sistemático de la Sierra Norte de Sevilla, una comarca muy pobremente conocida en la actualidad.
Research Interests:
A common feature of Iberian Late Neolithic (c. 4200/4000-3200 cal BC) and Copper Age societies (c. 3200-2200 cal BC) was the high degree of creativity displayed within the domain of graphic and plastic productions, including techniques,... more
A common feature of Iberian Late Neolithic (c. 4200/4000-3200 cal BC) and Copper Age societies (c. 3200-2200 cal BC) was the high degree of creativity displayed within the domain of graphic and plastic productions, including techniques, media, themes and uses. The abundance, variety and sheer beauty of the ‘artistic’ creations produced throughout this period becomes all the more remarkable when compared with the dearth and paucity of analogous productions in the early phase of the Bronze Age (c. 2200-1550 cal BC), when the old Neolithic tradition disappeared altogether – and in a rather abrupt manner. In this paper we present a synthesis of Late Neolithic and Copper Age plastic productions in southern Iberia. To this end we have made a thorough bibliographic review leading to the creation of a database of portable images that currently contains 1702 records (1325 for Andalusia and 375 for the Badajoz province, in Extremadura). The quantitative assessment of the information contained in this database provides the basis for a broad discussion of multiple aspects of these productions, including their morphology, geographical distribution, functions, contexts and gender.
Research Interests: Religion, History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, and 15 moreArt History, History of Religion, Rock Art (Archaeology), History of Sculpture, Sculpture, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Cultural Anthropology, Burial Practices (Archaeology), World Religions, ESCULTURA, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), Anthropology of Religion, and World Views
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Bioarchaeology, Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, and 14 moreNeolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Mediterranean archaeology, Neolithic, Funerary Practices, Prehistoric Archeology, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Copper age, and Archaeology of death and burial
Gender archaeology approaches to Iberian late prehistory have experienced a significant growth in the last two decades. However, much of the work undertaken has focused on specific aspects of the archaeological record (rock art, burial... more
Gender archaeology approaches to Iberian late prehistory have experienced a significant growth in the last two decades. However, much of the work undertaken has focused on specific aspects of the archaeological record (rock art, burial practices), particularly from the Bronze Age and Iron Age, periods for which the evidence is more readily available. In addition, it has tended to be regional or local in scope. Here, we attempt an empirically robust multi-proxy approach to the development of early gender inequalities in Neolithic Iberia. Inspired by Gerda Lerner's ideas on the origins of patriarchy and based on a systematic collection of data analysed by means of significance testing, we present the first comprehensive study of gender dissymmetries in Iberian prehistory. Our conclusions suggest that, first, the multi-proxy method used has potential for the systematic study of gender inequalities on the basis of archaeological data and, second, that the Neolithic witnessed emerging gender inequalities that set the basis for male domination in later periods.
Research Interests: Sociology, Social Demography, Demography, Archaeology, Gender Studies, and 14 moreAnthropology, Social Anthropology, Cultural Sociology, Social Sciences, Gender History, Political Anthropology, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Gender, Gender Equality, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, and Women and Gender Studies
We investigated mercury (Hg) in human bone from archaeological sites in the Iberian Peninsula where the cultural use of cinnabar (HgS) as a pigment, offering or preservative in burial practices has been documented from the 4th to 2nd... more
We investigated mercury (Hg) in human bone from archaeological sites in the Iberian Peninsula where the cultural use of cinnabar (HgS) as a pigment, offering or preservative in burial practices has been documented from the 4th to 2nd millennia cal B.C. (Late Neolithic, Copper Age and Bronze Age). Previous analyses have shown high levels of total mercury (THg) in human bone at numerous Neolithic and Chalcolithic sites in this region, but the question remains if this mercury entered the bones via diagenetic processes in the soil, especially where cinnabar powder and paint was found associated with the burials, or if it entered the bone via biogenic pathways from exposure to mercury from using cinnabar in life. We analyzed the humerus, femur, and tibia from a total of 30 individual burials from four Neolithic to Bronze Age sites in Iberia and found low to high values of THg in these bones, with the humerus showing significantly more THg concentrations than other skeletal elements when the THg was greater than 1 ppm. This pattern of Hg deposition in skeletal material from different sites and ages strongly suggests a biogenic origin for the mercury. In addition, absence of detectable Hg in bones with high to low values of THg using SEM EDS analysis further discounts diagenetic intrusion of Hg or cinnabar particles into the bone from the soil. It is likely that greater stress and bone remodeling rates from use of heavy tools and other activities in life are responsible for higher THg in the humerus than other skeletal elements, but additional research is needed to verify this.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Environmental Science, Geology, Geochemistry, and 15 moreBioarchaeology, Geoarchaeology, Environmental Studies, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Mercury Pollution, Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Mercury toxicity, Geoarchaeology and Paleoenvironmental Reconstructions, Bioarchaeology, human & faunal osteology, Human Osteology, Bioarchaeology, Cinnabar, Bioarchaeology, Osteology, Paleopathology, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
"The study of elites in pre-state complex societies is one of the classic themes of modern anthropology and archaeology. Early wannabe elites are known for their use of surplus resources to manipulate the social medium in the context of... more
"The study of elites in pre-state complex societies is one of the classic themes of modern anthropology and archaeology. Early wannabe elites are known for their use of surplus resources to manipulate the social medium in the context of competition between kinship units or corporate groups. Study of the elites of Copper Age Iberia (c. 3200–2200 cal BC) has never been attempted, which is rather paradoxical given the amplitude of the debate about social complexity in this time period. This is explained by a number of reasons, including the prevalence of collective burial practices (resulting in commingled deposits of human remains and artefacts), poor preservation and a lack of precise bioarchaeological data. In this paper we attempt, for the first time, a comprehensive analysis of elites in Copper Age Iberia. Starting from a pool of 1723 individuals found at 21 different sites, we examine a sample of eight high-ranking individuals for whom good quality bioarchaeological, chronological, and contextual information is available. Given the small size and limitations of the sample (for example, in terms of geographical scope) our approach assumes an explicitly experimental character as to the methodology that can be applied to identify expressions of social differentiation in this time period. As a result of our study, we tentatively propose some new ideas about the demographic, social, and cultural character of the elites emerging in 3rd millennium Iberia."
Research Interests: Sociology, Sociology of Religion, Archaeology, Anthropology, Social Sciences, and 15 moreState Formation, Social History, Anthropology of the State, Social Inequality (Anthropology), Social Inequalities, Historia Social, Social Inequality, Early State Formation, Social organization, Sociología, Desigualdades Sociales, Hierarchically Complex Social Systems, Social Hierarchies, Social hierarchy, and Social Stratification and Inequality
"This paper presents the results of the bioarchaeological analysis of La Pijotilla Tomb 3, which combines the application of standard methods in osteology and paleopathological analysis with the study of the funerary context. La Pijotilla... more
"This paper presents the results of the bioarchaeological analysis of La Pijotilla Tomb 3, which combines the application of standard methods in osteology and paleopathological analysis with the study of the funerary context. La Pijotilla is one of the most extensive Copper Age (c. 3200-2200 cal BC) settlements in Iberia, presenting a funerary complex with one of the largest human bone deposits available for the period, of which Tomb 3 is a prime example. The human bone collection from Tomb 3 at La Pijotilla was commingled and highly fragmented, in spite of which each bone fragment and tooth was classified. The resulting MNI was 178 individuals, based on the analysis of 283,329 human bone and tooth fragments. An equal distribution of adult individuals by sex was identified, and most of the bone and tooth fragments corresponded to adult individuals, with little representation of subadults. The non-metric traits present suggested similarities with other prehistoric populations of the Spanish south-west."
Research Interests: History, Demography, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, and 50 moreBioarchaeology, Historical Demography, Death, Death Studies, Mediterranean prehistory, Death & Dying (Thanatology), Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Physical Anthropology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Social Organisation (Archaeology), Death and Burial (Archaeology), Human Remains (Anthropology), Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Arqueología, Archaeology of burials, Funerary Practices, Prehistoric Archeology, Funeral Archaeology, Copper age, Prehistoria, Chalcolithic, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Archaeology of death and burial, Calcolítico, Burial Customs, Funeral Monuments, Bioarchaeology, human & faunal osteology, Bioarchaeology, Biological Anthropology, Archaeology, Funeral Rites, Archaeology of the Funeral Ritual, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, The Sociology of Death, Dying and Funerals, Bioarchaeology, Mortuary Archaeology, Human Osteology, Bioarchaeology, Social Bioarchaeology, Bioarchaeology, Osteology, Paleopathology, Social organisation, Demography and Population Studies, Funeral Customs, and Edad del Cobre
This paper is the first updated review of the scope, depth and problems related to the current radiocarbon chronology of the late prehistory of southern Iberia. The aim is twofold. First, it critically analyses the quantity and quality of... more
This paper is the first updated review of the scope, depth and problems related to the current radiocarbon chronology of the late prehistory of southern Iberia. The aim is twofold. First, it critically analyses the quantity and quality of radiocarbon dates used to interpret the diverse trajectories of western Mediterranean societies throughout more than four millennia. Secondly, it reviews a set of three different and prominent archaeological phenomena from an inter‐regional comparative perspective: primary and secondary burial practices, domestic stone architecture and ditched enclosures. Our long‐term, geographically wide‐range approach locates similarities while highlighting the effects of local and historical conditions in certain divergences.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 16 moreRadiocarbon, Prehistoric Settlement, Radiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Bayesian Radiocarbon Dating, Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Bayesian statistics & modelling, Bronze Age, Chronology, Copper age, Radiocarbon Dating, Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), and Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures
"Present day lead pollution is an environmental hazard of global proportions. A correct determination of natural lead levels is very important in order to evaluate anthropogenic lead contributions. In this paper, the anthropogenic... more
"Present day lead pollution is an environmental hazard of global proportions. A correct determination of natural lead levels is very important in order to evaluate anthropogenic lead contributions. In this paper, the anthropogenic signature of early metallurgy in Southern Iberia during the Holocene, more specifically during the Late Prehistory, was assessed by mean of a multiproxy approach: comparison of atmospheric lead pollution, fire regimes, deforestation, mass sediment transport, and archeological data. Although the onset of metallurgy in Southern Iberia is a matter of controversy, here we show the oldest lead pollution record from Western Europe in a continuous paleoenvironmental sequence,which suggests clear lead pollution caused by metallurgical activities since ~3900 cal BP (Early Bronze Age). This lead pollution was especially important during Late Bronze and Early Iron ages. At the same time, since ~4000 cal BP, an increase in fire activity is observed in this area, which is also coupled with deforestation and increased erosion rates. This study also shows that the lead pollution record locally reached near present-day values many times in the past, suggesting intensive use and manipulation of lead during those periods in this area."
Research Interests: History, Cultural History, Economic History, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, and 86 moreHistorical Geography, Social Geography, Environmental Geography, Physical Geography, Archaeology, Classical Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Environmental Science, Geology, Soil Science, Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, Historical Archaeology, Geoarchaeology, Palaeoenvironment, Atmospheric Chemistry, Atmospheric Science, Landscape Archaeology, Environmental Studies, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Environmental History, Medieval Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Air pollution, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Archaeometry, Environmental Chemistry, Palaeoecology, Environmental Sustainability, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Environmental Soil Science, Environmental Pollution, Mediterranean archaeology, Phoenician Punic Archaeology, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Arqueología, Iron Age, Late Pleistocene to Early Holocene, Ancient Metallurgy, Historia, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Arqueología histórica, Arqueologia Medieval, Atmospheric sciences, Late Bronze Age, Early Iron Age, Holocene, Heavy Metal Pollution, Late Bronze Age, Copper age, Arqueología Social, Geoarchaeology and Lithic Studies, Arqueología del Paisaje, Medio Ambiente, Archaeometallurgy, Mineralogy, Archaeometry, Geoarchaeology and Paleoenvironmental Reconstructions, Archaeometry, archaeological science, ceramics, Alluvial archaeology/geoarchaeology, Geologia, Late Holocene, Mid-Holocene, Holocene environmental change, Sedimentology, Geomorphology, Geoarchaeology, Contamination, Commensality, Geoarchaeology, Soils and Paleoclimate, Middle Holocene, Quaternary Geoarchaeology, Lead pollution, Early Holocene archaeology, Early Holocene Geoarchaeology, Phoenician trade, European Copper and Bronze Age – Archaeometallurgy – Prehistoric Metalworking in Social Context – Settlement Archaeology – Application of Geophysical Methods in Archaeology – Neolithic – Theory / Cultural Anthropology – Material Culture Studies, Ritual Practices, Human-environmental interactions and geoarchaeology, Holoceno, Holocene ecology and environmental change, Contaminación, Plomo, Roman Archaeology, Quarternary Science and Geoarchaeology, Alluvial Geoarchaeology, Geoarchaelogy, Holocene Deposits, Contaminación Atmosferica, and Contaminación Por Plomo
Research Interests: State Formation, Social Stratification, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 7 moreSocial Organisation (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Anthropology of the State, Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Origins of the State, Social Complexity, and Copper age
This paper provides an overview of funerary practices in southern Spain from the Mesolithic to the Copper Age. In particular, the authors analyse the megalithic structures that have been radiocarbon dated and those which yield results... more
This paper provides an overview of funerary practices in southern Spain from the Mesolithic to the Copper Age. In particular, the authors analyse the megalithic structures that have been radiocarbon dated and those which yield results when using a bioarchaeological approach. Broadly speaking, at this time funerary containers present different morphological types, the most frequent being the Megalithic construction; funerary practices were collective and grave goods were communal. Paleodemographics have found that there was equal distribution of both sexes and that the population was represented normally and included subadults and all age categories. However, more bioarchaeological information must be provided in combination with absolute dating.
Research Interests: Demography, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Bioarchaeology, and 15 moreHistorical Demography, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Mesolithic Archaeology, Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Physical Anthropology, Social History, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Anthropology of Death, Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Funerary Practices, Copper age, and Bioarchaeology, Osteology, Paleopathology
This paper attempts a general assessment of the contributions included in this volume. We examine three main kinds of problems related to the research on social inequality in Iberian Late Prehistory. These are theoretical, empirical and... more
This paper attempts a general assessment of the contributions included in this volume. We examine three main kinds of problems related to the research on social inequality in Iberian Late Prehistory. These are theoretical, empirical and interpretative. Among the first, we comment upon the very definition of social inequality, the taxonomical categories employed in social evolution, as well as the main factors causing inequality, with special attention to labour force mobilisation. Among the second, we highlight some weaknesses of the Iberian archaeological record for the investigation of the subject matter, such as the limitations of the absolute chronology or the settlement record. Finally, we discuss the propositions that have been put forward to understand the forms that social inequality took among Neolithic, Copper and Bronze Age communities, concluding that Iberian archaeologists would much benefit from a comparative perspective.
Research Interests: History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Social Anthropology, and 53 moreMediterranean prehistory, Political Anthropology, Social and Cultural Anthropology, State Formation, State Theory, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Archaeology, Social History, Prehistoric Settlement, Social Evolution, Social Change, revolution, and evolution, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Cultural Anthropology, Anthropology of the State, Social Inequality (Anthropology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Social Inequalities, Middle Bronze Age, Prehistory, Historia Social, Neolithic, Origins of the State, Social Complexity, Social Inequality, Historia, Early State Formation, Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age, Prehistoric Archeology, Late Bronze Age, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Evolution of Social Complexity, Copper age, Prehistoria, Chalcolithic, Late Chalcolithic, Bronze Age metal hoards, Social and Cultural Evolution, European Neolithic, Copper Age, Bronze Age, Prehistoria Reciente, Social Stratification and Inequality, Anthropology of Religion, Social Exclusion and Social Inequalities, Models of Social Evolution, and Evolution of Social Structure
In this paper I analyse the funerary ideology of the communities which occupied the Southwest of the Iberian Peninsula between c. 3300 and 850 cal BC (Copper and Bronze Age). The definition and critical discussion of the funerary patterns... more
In this paper I analyse the funerary ideology of the communities which occupied the Southwest of the Iberian Peninsula between c. 3300 and 850 cal BC (Copper and Bronze Age). The definition and critical discussion of the funerary patterns and their evolution over this long period is used as the basis for an analysis of the evolution of social inequality. With this aim in mind, three main groups of evidence are used, corresponding to (i) funerary spaces and architectures, (ii) grave goods deposited as part of the funerary ritual, and (iii) symbology associated with the architecture and portable artefacts. As a result, an interpretation of the dialectic evolution of elements of continuity and rupture within the funerary ideology, and its significance in terms of social relationships, is presented.
Research Interests: Religion, Sociology of Religion, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, History of Religion, and 63 moreMediterranean prehistory, Funerary Archaeology, Ancient Religion, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Social Organisation (Archaeology), Prehistoric Settlement, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Infant burial (Archaeology), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Social Inequality (Anthropology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Social Inequalities, Middle Bronze Age, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Funerary Architecture, Social Complexity, History of architecture, Social Inequality, Archaeology of burials, Funerary Practices, Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age, Prehistoric Archeology, Funeral Archaeology, Late Bronze Age, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Megalithism, Evolution of Social Complexity, Copper age, Prehistoria, Chalcolithic, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, Bronze Age metal hoards, Funeral Monuments, Megaliths, Funerals, European Neolithic, Copper Age, Bronze Age, Ceremonial funerals, Funeral Rites, Stelae, Megalithic tombs, Archaeology of the Funeral Ritual, Anthropomorphic Stelae, The Sociology of Death, Dying and Funerals, Social Stratification and Inequality, Anthropology of Religion, Warrior burials, Funeral Customs, and Megalithic Culture
Intensive survey in southwestern Spain has encouraged reassessment of Copper and Bronze Age settlement in the region. This paper explores the issues of social ranking and stratification, and incorporates both the different types of... more
Intensive survey in southwestern Spain has encouraged reassessment of Copper and Bronze Age settlement in the region. This paper explores the issues of social ranking and stratification, and incorporates both the different types of landscape and their relative economic productivity in new discussions on social complexity.
Research Interests:
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), and 32 moreNeolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Social Organisation (Archaeology), Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Evolution, Chiefdoms (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Neolithic, Origins of the State, Social Complexity, Social organization, Early Bronze Age, Prehistoric Archeology, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Evolution of Social Complexity, Copper age, Prehistoria, Chiefdoms, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Late Chalcolithic, Social and Cultural Evolution, Complexity theory in social systems, European Neolithic, Copper Age, Bronze Age, Big-men, Big Men, and Models of Social Evolution
This paper reports on attempts to establish a preliminary chronological framework, based on optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating, for an enigmatic megalithic-like structure located underground the town of Carmona, Seville,... more
This paper reports on attempts to establish a preliminary chronological framework, based on optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating, for an enigmatic megalithic-like structure located underground the town of Carmona, Seville, Spain. The structure had been initially categorized as a dolmen of the Chalcolithic period. Here we applied OSL dating to superficial quartz grains extracted from the cobbles that compose the structure's walls, on the assumption that their last sunlight exposure would account for the erection of the structure. OSL dating established a maximum age for the structure that is no earlier than the 3rd Century BCE, excluding it from the major phase of megalithism of Iberia (4th–3rd millennia BCE).
Research Interests: History, Ancient History, Cultural History, Archaeology, Classical Archaeology, and 41 moreRoman History, Art History, Historical Archaeology, Architecture, Roman Religion, Spanish History, Vernacular Architecture, Architectural History, History of Art, Megalithic Monuments, OSL dating, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Luminescence Dating, Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Spain (History), Archaeology of Roman Hispania, Hispania (Archaeology), Luminescence (OSL), History of architecture, Arquitectura, Arqueología De La Arquitectura, Historia de la Arquitectura, Chronology, Hispania, Classics: Ancient History and Archaeology, Ancient History of the Iberian Peninsula/Hispania, Roman Spain, Roman Architecture, Dating, History of Art and Architecture, Megaliths, Ancient chronology, Roman cities of Baetica (Hispania), Luminiscence Dating, Hispania romana, Subterranean architecture, Roman Archaeology, History of Architecture, and Architecture Vernaculaire
Over the last decade, new questions have emerged with regard to the complex temporal patterns often seen in Iberian prehistoric monuments. A number of megalithic chamber tombs, menhirs, stelae or rock-art panels have been found to show... more
Over the last decade, new questions have emerged with regard to the complex temporal patterns often seen in Iberian prehistoric monuments. A number of megalithic chamber tombs, menhirs, stelae or rock-art panels have been found to show that, as it occurs in other European regions, their lives were not restricted to the period of time in which they were built or manufactured, but, on the contrary, they extended well into later (or even much later) prehistoric, protohistoric and subsequent historical periods. In this chapter we discuss a number of examples of such patterns, that include successive physical transformations through the incorporation of new architectural or graphic elements and/or through the reorganization of previously existing ones, the accumulation of mnemonic artefacts, as well as layouts and orientations in special landscape settings.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, History of Religion, Epigraphy (Archaeology), Early Medieval Archaeology, and 25 moreMedieval Archaeology, Funerary Archaeology, History of Sculpture, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Collective Memory, History of Art, Latin Epigraphy, Megalithic Monuments, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, Prehistoric Rock Art, Neolithic, History of architecture, Prehistoric Archeology, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Epigraphy, History of Art and Architecture, Megaliths, and Roman Archaeology
The main aim of this book is to explore the active role that many prehistoric monuments, including rock art sites, played in social life during the 1st millennium BC and the 1st millennium AD on the basis on a wide thematic, chronological... more
The main aim of this book is to explore the active role that many prehistoric monuments, including rock art sites, played in social life during the 1st millennium BC and the 1st millennium AD on the basis on a wide thematic, chronological and geographic coverage. Although this book adopts a broad and inclusive theoretical approach,from a methodological point of view it draws inspiration from the biographical approach to the study of material culture (e.g. Kopytoff 1986; Gosden and Marshall 1999; Hoskins 2006). This approach has already been applied for some time by Anglo-American archaeologists,proving to be a useful framework within which to consider the active role of monuments and landscapes in social life (Chippindale 1987; Feld and Basso 1996, Bender 1998; Bradley and Williams 1998; Knapp and Ashmore 1999; Bradley 2000; Holtorf 2000–8; Bradley 2002; Gillings and Pollard 2004; Jones 2007; Rainbird 2008, Rubertone 2008; Parker 2009; Reneset al. 2013). It has, however, been far less widely explored by archaeologists belonging to other academic traditions in the broader context of European and Mediterranean prehistory. Therefore, a key contribution of this book is that authors from different academic traditions take a fresh look at this approach through different case studies and a range of different theoretical standpoints, enriching our view of the variety of archaeologies that are currently being made in different regions of Europe. In terms of chronological and geographic coverage, then, this volume transcends traditional period and place constraints. Case studies include later prehistoricand Roman periods, and follow the trajectories of monuments into the Medieval and even Modern periods of history, from Scandinavia to Tunisia, and from the British Isles to the Balkans. The chronology of each of these broad time periods varies, of course,from region to region and some do not even exist in some areas:this is the case of Ireland, which was beyond the frontiers of the Roman Empireand for which no ‘Roman period’ as such is formally defined.
Research Interests: History, Ancient History, European History, Cultural History, Archaeology, and 88 moreClassical Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Roman History, Art History, Social Anthropology, Historical Archaeology, Medieval History, Balkan Prehistory (Archaeology), History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Medieval Studies, Mediterranean prehistory, Human Memory, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Mnemonics, Rock Art (Archaeology), History and Memory, Roman Religion, Historical memory, Early Medieval Archaeology, Architectural History, Medieval Archaeology, Funerary Archaeology, History of Sculpture, History of Religions, Ancient Religion, Late Antiquity, Neolithic Archaeology, Paganism, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Commemoration and Memory, Collective Memory, History of Art, Landscapes in prehistory, Social History, Megalithic Monuments, Social Memory, History of Religion (Medieval Studies), British Prehistory (Archaeology), Ancient myth and religion, Public Memory, Social History of Art, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Cultural Anthropology, Balkan prehistory, Megaliths (Archaeology), Late Roman Archaeology, Archaeology of Roman Hispania, Hispania (Archaeology), Memory and materiality, Iron Age (Archaeology), North African prehistory (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Arqueología, Antiquity, Historia Social, Iron Age, History of architecture, Memory, Oral History and Memory, Aegean Prehistory, Belief Systems, Hispania, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Ancient History of the Iberian Peninsula/Hispania, Arqueología del Paisaje, Roman Architecture, Paganism and Christianism, Politics of Memory, Monuments, Classical Antiquity, History of Arts, Memoria, Arqueología romana / Roman archeology, Megaliths, Epigrafia, Hispania Romana, Roman cities of Baetica (Hispania), Hispania romana, Anthropology of Religion, Roman Archaeology, World Views, and History of Religous Thought
ENGLISH: "Movement is an intrinsic activity to the human being, whose execution is necessary to carry out any task in daily life. Due to its relevance, movement patterns are important not only for the cognitive, cultural, social, economic... more
ENGLISH: "Movement is an intrinsic activity to the human being, whose execution is necessary to carry out any task in daily life. Due to its relevance, movement patterns are important not only for the cognitive, cultural, social, economic or political impact that they entail, but also because they are of great value to understand diverse problems such as the construction of identities, the definition of territories, technological exchange or the development of processes of social complexity. In this article, GIS tools are used to analyze the possible dynamics and movement patterns of the societies of the Late Prehistory of Western Sierra Morena (provinces of Huelva and Seville, SW Spain) and their landscape implications. Among the topics discussed are the variables and factors that influenced the design and layout of the road networks, the degree of continuity and the diachrony that these roads met, the archaeological evidence that remained of the landscape and the main material elements that could have served as an aid to terrestrial navigation."
SPANISH: "El movimiento es una actividad intrínseca al ser humano, cuya ejecución es necesaria para llevar a cabo cualquier tarea en la vida cotidiana. Debido a su relevancia, los patrones de movimiento de una sociedad son importantes no solamente por el impacto cognitivo, cultural, social, económico o político que conllevan, sino también porque son de gran valor para entender problemas diversos como la construcción de identidades, la definición de territorios, el intercambio tecnológico o el desarrollo de procesos de complejidad social. En este artículo se utilizan herramientas SIG para analizar las posibles dinámicas y patrones de movimiento de las sociedades de la Prehistoria Reciente de Sierra Morena Occidental (provincias de Huelva y Sevilla) y sus implicaciones paisajísticas. Entre los temas tratados se encuentran las variables y los factores que influyeron en el diseño y trazado de las redes camineras, el grado de continuidad y la diacronía que dichos caminos conocieron, la evidencia arqueológica que de ello quedó en clave paisajística y los principales elementos materiales que pudieron servir como ayuda a la navegación terrestre."
SPANISH: "El movimiento es una actividad intrínseca al ser humano, cuya ejecución es necesaria para llevar a cabo cualquier tarea en la vida cotidiana. Debido a su relevancia, los patrones de movimiento de una sociedad son importantes no solamente por el impacto cognitivo, cultural, social, económico o político que conllevan, sino también porque son de gran valor para entender problemas diversos como la construcción de identidades, la definición de territorios, el intercambio tecnológico o el desarrollo de procesos de complejidad social. En este artículo se utilizan herramientas SIG para analizar las posibles dinámicas y patrones de movimiento de las sociedades de la Prehistoria Reciente de Sierra Morena Occidental (provincias de Huelva y Sevilla) y sus implicaciones paisajísticas. Entre los temas tratados se encuentran las variables y los factores que influyeron en el diseño y trazado de las redes camineras, el grado de continuidad y la diacronía que dichos caminos conocieron, la evidencia arqueológica que de ello quedó en clave paisajística y los principales elementos materiales que pudieron servir como ayuda a la navegación terrestre."
Research Interests: History, Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Historical Geography, and 74 moreSocial Geography, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Social Anthropology, Spatial Analysis, History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Anthropology of Mobility, History and Memory, Cultural Landscapes, Landscape History, Ancient Religion, Archaeological GIS, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Commemoration and Memory, Collective Memory, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Landscapes in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Geography of Mobility and Migrations, Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Landscape, Geo-spatial analysis with GIS and GPS, Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Mobility (Archaeology), Spatial analysis (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Territoriality, Historia, Mobility, Territorial politics, Least Cost Path Analysis, Spatial Analysis and modeling, Prehistoric Archeology, Terrestrial Navigation, Geografia, Cultural Landscape, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Spatial Analysis with GIS and Geostatistical Methods, Copper age, Prehistoria, Geografía Humana, Territory, Statistical Techniques in Spatial Analysis, Monumentality, Viewshed GIS, Territorio, Megalitismo, Monuments, Visibility, Megaliths, Trashumancia, Megalithic tombs, Viewsheds, Caminería Hispánica, Monuments & Memorials, Viewshed, Geo-Spatial Analysis, Landscape and Land-use-history, Anthropology of Religion, Visibility Analysis, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geographic Information Systems GIS), and Geographic Information System
This paper explores how Neolithic and Copper Age societies of southern Spain established highly patterned relationships between natural elements (matter, form) and human-made devices (artefacts, architectures) in order to maintain their... more
This paper explores how Neolithic and Copper Age societies of southern Spain established highly patterned relationships between natural elements (matter, form) and human-made devices (artefacts, architectures) in order to maintain their cultural memory. These patterns of relationships involve 1) the selection of special types of rocks (natural substances) and their utilisation with both votive and architectural purposes, 2) the frequenting and sacralisation of anomalous natural spaces (conspicuous vs. hidden), 3) the material transformation and re-utilisation of certain funerary monuments, and 4) the visual connection of sites prominent in the collective memory. Over time, the interaction between "natural" and "artificial" elements lays of the landscape a complex web of references that are integrated in narratives of both mythical (cosmogony, foundational legends) and genealogical (ancestors, lineages) memories. In turn, this web of references becomes integrated in the dynamics of tradition and change embedded in the religious and political ideologies of the societies that in southern Spain during this long time span. This discussion will focus on two case studies on which the authors have ongoing research, namely Almadén de la Plata (Sevilla) and Antequera (Málaga).
Research Interests: Art History, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Rock Art (Archaeology), Cultural Landscapes, and 18 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Collective Memory, History of Art, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, History of architecture, Copper age, and Burial Customs
The meeting of the European Megalithic Studies Group at Seville in November 2008 brought an international group of researchers together to consider two themes: the presence and significance of rare rocks, and the chronology of these... more
The meeting of the European Megalithic Studies Group at Seville in November 2008 brought an international group of researchers together to consider two themes: the presence and significance of rare rocks, and the chronology of these monuments. While megalithic monuments are known to have been built mostly of locally available stone, their builders occasionally incorporated blocks that had been brought from a distance. These instances of ‘megalithic transport’ provide insight into the significance of both the stones themselves and their sources. Neolithic monuments may also contain ‘exotic’ stone in the form of special materials deposited with the dead, indicators of social and symbolic values. The second theme of the meeting, chronology, explored the temporal framework within which individual groups of monuments were built and the insights provided by recent dating programmes. Among these is the realisation that the construction of particular categories of monument may have been more limited in time than had previously been supposed. Papers in both themes address key issues of scale, cultural tradition and cultural exchange.
Research Interests:
In the last thirty years we have seen several theories about the function of megalithic monuments and their relationship with landscape elements such as roads and droveways. Although the transhumant tradition its droveways have been... more
In the last thirty years we have seen several theories about the function of megalithic monuments and their relationship with landscape elements such as roads and droveways. Although the transhumant tradition its droveways have been recorded first in the Middle ages, field observations have remarked the coincidence between the layout of these path and megalithic monuments. Several authors have suggested that the droveways were traced taking into account several natural variables and optimizing the relationship between terrain and time crossing, energy consumption, resources disponibility (like water) and other social factors. This paper investigates the possible relationship between megalithic monuments and droveways in the municipality of Almadén de la Plata (Sevilla, Spain). By using Geographic Information System and statistical methods we have studied the correlation between these archaeological elements and we have carried out two mobility experiments comparing droveways and optimal routes.
Research Interests: Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, and 44 moreSpatial Analysis, Spatial Modeling, Landscape Archaeology, Anthropology of Mobility, History and Memory, Cultural Landscapes, Funerary Archaeology, Archaeological GIS, Neolithic Archaeology, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Collective Memory, Spatial Statistics, Megalithic Monuments, Remote sensing and GIS applications in Landscape Research, Spatial Theory, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Mobility (Archaeology), Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Mediterranean archaeology, Historia, Least Cost Path Analysis, Geografia, Megalithism, Copper age, Geografía Humana, Arqueología del Paisaje, Paisaje, Iberian prehistory, Megaliths, Caminos, Trashumancia, Caminería Hispánica, Trashumance, Caminería Histórica, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Análisis Espacial En Arqueología, Vias Terrestres, Least Cost Path, Vias Pecuarias, and Territory and Territoriality Studies
"The meeting of the European Megalithic Studies Group at Seville in November 2008 brought an international group of researchers together to consider two themes: the presence and significance of rare rocks, and the chronology of these... more
"The meeting of the European Megalithic Studies Group at Seville in November 2008 brought an international group of researchers together to consider two themes: the presence and significance of rare rocks, and the chronology of these monuments. While megalithic monuments are known to have been built mostly of locally available stone, their builders occasionally incorporated blocks that had been brought from a distance. These instances of ‘megalithic transport’ provide insight into the significance of both the stones themselves and their sources. Neolithic monuments may also contain ‘exotic’ stone in the form of special materials deposited with the dead, indicators of social and symbolic values. The second theme of the meeting, chronology, explored the temporal framework within which individual groups of monuments were built and the insights provided by recent dating programmes. Among these is the realisation that the construction of particular categories of monument may have been more limited in time than had previously been supposed. Papers in both themes address key issues of scale, cultural tradition and cultural exchange."
Research Interests: Religion, History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, and 37 moreHistory of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Religion and Politics, Social and Cultural Anthropology, History and Memory, History of Religions, Ancient Religion, Neolithic Archaeology, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Commemoration and Memory, Collective Memory, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Memory, Anthropology of Death, Cultural Anthropology, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Neolithic, History of architecture, Oral History and Memory, Monumentality in Architecture, Archaeology of burials, Funeral Archaeology, Megalithic Art, Archaeology of death and burial, Monumentality, Burial Customs, Megalitismo, Funeral Monuments, Megaliths, and Anthropology of Religion
This study compiles the radiocarbon dates currently available in order to examine the chronology, diachrony and temporality of the megalithic phenomenon in the south of Spain. Firstly, it undertakes a critical evaluation of the empirical... more
This study compiles the radiocarbon dates currently available in order to examine the chronology, diachrony and temporality of the megalithic phenomenon in the south of Spain. Firstly, it
undertakes a critical evaluation of the empirical evidence, secondly, it examines the temporal evolution of the megalithic phenomenon in light of the information provided by the radiocarbon dates, and thirdly, it proposes a discussion of synthesis using combined graphs of the available dates for
different categories of funerary receptacles. As a result, we discuss aspects of the megalithic phenomenon that had previously been suggested, such as the enormous temporal range of its development, which greatly exceeds the Neolithic and Copper Age periods to which it has generally been confined, or the complexity of the patterns of interaction between megalithic funerary sites and receptacles and others of a different morphology.
undertakes a critical evaluation of the empirical evidence, secondly, it examines the temporal evolution of the megalithic phenomenon in light of the information provided by the radiocarbon dates, and thirdly, it proposes a discussion of synthesis using combined graphs of the available dates for
different categories of funerary receptacles. As a result, we discuss aspects of the megalithic phenomenon that had previously been suggested, such as the enormous temporal range of its development, which greatly exceeds the Neolithic and Copper Age periods to which it has generally been confined, or the complexity of the patterns of interaction between megalithic funerary sites and receptacles and others of a different morphology.
Research Interests: Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, and 8 moreRadiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), C14 (Geochronology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), and Copper age
This paper compiles the currently available evidence for the study of artefacts made of rare rocks and exotic raw materials found in funerary contexts of the 4th to the 2nd millennia BCE of southern Iberia (regions of Andalusia and... more
This paper compiles the currently available evidence for the study of artefacts made of rare rocks and exotic raw materials found in funerary contexts of the 4th to the 2nd millennia BCE of southern Iberia (regions of Andalusia and Extremadura). The raw materials considered in this paper include green stones (variscite and similar), rock crystal and white quartz, amber, jet as well as faience and glass paste. Departing from a simple quantification of the objects manufactured on these raw materials, a discussion is made concerning their relative frequency, the prevailing trends in terms of functionality and use as well as the implication that can be inferred about their provenance and exchange. Among the various conclusions pointed out as a result of this discussion, the remarkable differences in frequency between collective burials of the 4th-3rd millennia BC and individual burials of the 2nd millennium BC, stands out.
Research Interests: Prehistoric Archaeology, Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 11 moreMegalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Amber, Prehistoric Trade Networks, Prehistoric amber, Late Neolithic Copper Age Personal Ornaments Beads Pendents Bracelets Jewelry Portugal Spain Iberia Social Complexity Craft Specialization Political Economy Exchange Exotic Raw Materials Ivory Variscite Slate Plaques, Baltic amber, and Rare rocks
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, and 9 moreCultural Memory, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Copper age, and Antequera (Archaeology)
"Although the megalithic phenomenon in southern Iberia has been studied since the mid-nineteenth century, little attention has been paid to the role that megalithic structures played in the organization of prehistoric landscapes. Just as... more
"Although the megalithic phenomenon in southern Iberia has been studied since the mid-nineteenth century, little attention has been paid to the role that megalithic structures played in the organization of prehistoric landscapes. Just as in other areas of Europe, however, southern Iberian megalithic structures must have played complex roles in the social organization of landscapes that go far beyond their use as funerary containers. Using examples from our work in southern Iberia, we employ GIS-based spatial analysis to explore for the first time various aspects of the landscape dimension of these monuments. We discuss three case-studies for which fresh field data have been recently made available. In the first (Almadén de la Plata) we find patterns of association between medieval transhumance routes and megaliths, and we use cost-surface modelling to suggest that medieval routes may reflect earlier, prehistoric patterns of movement which in turn suggest that megalithic structures functioned in this area as waypoints within an emerging mobility system for people and livestock. In the second case (Aroche) we show correlations between the locations of megaliths and theoretical territories defined by isochrones and contrast this pattern with the distribution of nonmegalithic funerary sites of the Early Bronze Age, concluding that the spatial distribution of megaliths in this region may relate to their role as landmarks. Lastly we describe a far more specific relationship which we have encountered in the Antequera region, where we believe we have identified a relationship between the orientation of the megalithic structure of Menga, a prominent natural feature and several newly discovered prehistoric sites. Together, these three examples suggest that the current focus on typology, chronology and contents in the study of Iberian megaliths needs to be matched with efforts to identify and interpret the often highly complex structure of the prehistoric landscapes of which they form an integral part."
Research Interests: Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Historical Geography, Political Geography and Geopolitics, and 82 moreSocial Geography, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Art History, Spatial Analysis, Spatial Modeling, Architecture, History of Religion, Spatial Practices, Landscape Archaeology, Social and Cultural Anthropology, History and Memory, Archaeological Method & Theory, Cultural Landscapes, Landscape History, Funerary Archaeology, Ancient Religion, Archaeological GIS, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Commemoration and Memory, Collective Memory, History of Art, Spatial Statistics, Megalithic Monuments, Political Geography, Remote sensing and GIS applications in Landscape Research, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Landscape, Cultural Anthropology, Megaliths (Archaeology), Mobility (Archaeology), Spatial archaeology, Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Sacred Landscape (Archaeology), History of architecture, Territoriality, Memory, GIS and Landscape Archaeology, Oral History and Memory, Geografia, Cultural Landscape, Megalithism, Copper age, Geografía Humana, Territory, Arqueología del Paisaje, Paesaggio, Monumentality, Paisaje, Viewshed GIS, Archeologia dei paesaggi, History of Art and Architecture, Paysage, Transhumance, Megalitismo, Monuments, Megaliths, Conservation and Restoration of Historic Buildings and Monuments, Archeologia del paesaggio, Viewsheds, HUMAN TERRITORY AND TERRITORIALITY, Paysages, Viewshed, Paisaje Cultural, Arqueologia Del Paisaje, Landscape and Land-use-history, Archéologie du paysage, Anthropology of Religion, Visibility Analysis, Paysages Et Sociétés, Paisajes Culturales, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Análisis Espacial En Arqueología, Territory and Territoriality Studies, Paysages de mémoire, Paysages mémoriels, and Paysages culturels
The aim of this paper is to increase the empirical basis available for the study of the absolute chronology of the megalithic phenomenon in Andalusia. To this end, six new radiocarbon dates, obtained from three megalithic monuments... more
The aim of this paper is to increase the empirical basis available for the study of the absolute chronology of the megalithic phenomenon in Andalusia. To this end, six new radiocarbon dates, obtained from three megalithic monuments recently excavated in the province of Huelva, are presented. These radiocarbon analyses are part of a larger study that includes the site of La Orden-El Seminario and totals 23 new dates. The relevance of these new dates for the contribution of the megalithic phenomenon in Huelva is discussed from the perspective of the currently available framework of absolute dates for Andalusian Late Prehistory.
Research Interests: Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Radiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), and 8 moreC14 (Geochronology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Funerary Practices, and Copper age
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Art History, Mediterranean prehistory, Architectural History, and 42 moreArchaeology of Religion, Funerary Archaeology, History of Sculpture, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Landscapes in prehistory, Prehistoric Settlement, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Archaeology of Ritual and Magic, Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Prehistoric Rock Art, Neolithic, History of Archaeology, Arqueología De La Arquitectura, Historia de la Arquitectura, Archaeology of burials, Prehistoric Archeology, Andalusia, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Prehistoria, Chalcolithic Metallurgy, Archaeology of death and burial, Monumentality, Burial Customs, Monuments, Megaliths, Chamber Graves, and Andalusian Studies
Research Interests:
Research Interests: Religion, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Art History, History of Religion, and 50 moreLandscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Rock Art (Archaeology), History of Sculpture, History of Religions, Ancient Religion, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Pottery, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Landscapes in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Bronze Age (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Arqueología, Prehistoric Rock Art, Neolithic, History of architecture, Figurines, Rock Art, Prehistoric Figurines, Historia de la Arquitectura, Anthropomorphic Figurines, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Prehistoria, Chalcolithic, Chalcolithic Metallurgy, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Neolithic figurines, Megalithic Technology, Iberian prehistory, Megaliths, European Neolithic, Copper Age, Bronze Age, Landscape and Rock Art, Megalithic tombs, Mégalithes, Andalusian Prehistory, Megalithic monument, Anthropology of Religion, Beliefs Systems, and Megalithic Culture
Research Interests:
En este trabajo se plantea la significación de los sitios megalíticos como dispositivos culturales dedicados a la fijación material del tiempo. Dado el carácter fundacional que tienen como elemento fundamental de la construcción del... more
En este trabajo se plantea la significación de los sitios megalíticos como dispositivos culturales dedicados a la fijación material del tiempo. Dado el carácter fundacional que tienen como elemento fundamental de la construcción del paisaje cultural de las primeras sociedades agrarias, los monumentos megalíticos adquieren una extraordinaria capacidad de permanencia en la memoria colectiva, convirtiéndose en referentes materiales de las identidades, las relaciones y prácticas sociales y las ideologías a través de los siglos. Esta capacidad de permanencia excede ampliamente los límites temporales convencionalmente atribuidos a la Prehistoria, entrando de lleno en el ámbito de las sociedades antiguas, medievales y modernas.
Research Interests: History, Art History, Architecture, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, and 20 moreMnemonics, History and Memory, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Cultural Memory, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Collective Memory, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, History of architecture, Historia y Memoria, Arqueología del Paisaje, Monumentality, Paisaje, Monuments, and Memoria
This paper examines the use of prehistoric monuments in southern Iberian in Roman times. Firstly, a number of well-documented cases are described, discussing the specific circumstances of each of them (chronology, funerary ritual, spatial... more
This paper examines the use of prehistoric monuments in southern Iberian in Roman times. Firstly, a number of well-documented cases are described, discussing the specific circumstances of each of them (chronology, funerary ritual, spatial location, etc.). Secondly, an interpretation of the different ideological and social meanings that the utilisation of old megalithic monuments might have had for the communities of Roman Iberia.
Research Interests: Religion, History, Archaeology, Classical Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, and 26 moreRoman History, Architecture, History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Collective Memory, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Archaeology of Roman Hispania, Hispania (Archaeology), Roman burial practices, Roman Spain, Archaeology of death and burial, Prehistoric monuments and architecture, Burial Customs, Arqueología, Historia Antigua, Antigüedad Tardía, Roma, Hispania, Mundo Ibérico, Roman Society, Anthropology of Religion, and Roman Archaeology
This paper tackles the analysis of a series of cases of reutilisation in Roman times of prehistoric sacred spaces and monuments, recorded throughout the South of the Iberian Peninsula. The cases under study are grouped in three main... more
This paper tackles the analysis of a series of cases of reutilisation in Roman times of prehistoric sacred spaces and monuments, recorded throughout the South of the Iberian Peninsula. The cases under study are grouped in three main categories: (i) spatial proximity or overlapping of prehistoric and Roman burial areas, (ii) reutilisation of the inner and outer spaces of prehistoric mortuary chambers, and (iii) re-use of rock art sanctuaries and prehistoric stelae. As a conclusion, we suggest, firstly, the need to reconsider the recording criteria by which the appearance of later materials in old monuments is archaeologically assessed; secondly, we point out the need to look at these cases from the viewpoint of the elements of tradition and memory that some old sacred sites convey for the Iberian-Roman populations. Finally, we suggest these cases must be interpreted in terms of religious and political ideology.
Research Interests: Religion, Comparative Religion, Ancient History, Sociology of Religion, Archaeology, and 64 moreClassical Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Roman History, Art History, Historical Archaeology, History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Religion and Politics, Mnemonics, History and Memory, Roman Religion, Historical memory, Medieval Archaeology, Funerary Archaeology, History of Religions, Ancient Religion, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Funeral Practices, Commemoration and Memory, Collective Memory, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Memory, Ancient myth and religion, Public Memory, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Spain (History), Archaeology of Roman Hispania, Hispania (Archaeology), Memory and materiality, Roman burial practices, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Antiquity, History of architecture, Memory, Oral History and Memory, Archaeology of burials, Hispania, Funeral Archaeology, Ancient History of the Iberian Peninsula/Hispania, Celtic Hispania, Roman Spain, Hispania tardorromana, Roman Architecture, Burial Customs, Classical Antiquity, Memoria, Funeral Monuments, Epigrafia, Hispania Romana, Roman cities of Baetica (Hispania), Funeral Rites, Memoria Colectiva, Archaeology of the Funeral Ritual, Hispania romana, Arqueología, Historia Antigua, Antigüedad Tardía, Roma, Hispania, Mundo Ibérico, The Sociology of Death, Dying and Funerals, Anthropology of Religion, and Roman Archaeology
This paper analyses the role of visibility in the structure of prehistoric landscapes in the western Sierra Morena (SW Spain). Cumulative viewshed analysis is carried out on two different sets of archaeological sites (totalling thirtysix... more
This paper analyses the role of visibility in the structure of prehistoric landscapes in the western Sierra Morena (SW Spain). Cumulative viewshed analysis is carried out on two different sets of archaeological sites (totalling thirtysix megalithic constructions and four settlements), located in Aracena (Huelva) and Almaden de la Plata (Sevilla), in order to investigate the visual relationships between the megalithic monuments and between these monuments and the settlements with which they are associated. The analysis prompts a number of interpretations regarding the spatial distribution of the sites, their hierarchical relationships and their possible symbolic-ideological meanings.
Research Interests: Religion, Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Archaeology, and 66 morePrehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Spatial Analysis, Spatial Modeling, History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Settlement Patterns, Cultural Landscapes, Landscape History, Archaeological GIS, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Cultural Memory, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Spatial Statistics, Prehistoric Settlement, Spanish archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Landscape, Geo-spatial analysis with GIS and GPS, Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Spatial archaeology, Spatial analysis (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Settlement archaeology, Neolithic, History of architecture, Territoriality, Monumentality in Architecture, Geografia, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Prehistoria, Geografía Humana, Arqueología del Paisaje, Chalcolithic, Statistical Techniques in Spatial Analysis, Monumentality, Paisaje, Applied Spatial Statistics, Viewshed GIS, Territorialidad, Iberian prehistory, Megaliths, Prehistory Iberian Peninsula, European Neolithic, Copper Age, Bronze Age, Megalithic tombs, Viewsheds, Megalithic monument, Estadística Espacial, Arqueología del Paisaje y Gestión del Patrimonio Cultural, Visibility Analysis, Estadistica Aplicada, Megalithic Culture, Paisajes Culturales, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Total viewshed
This paper examines the temporal permanence of megalithic monuments in the Iberian south-west during the Bronze Age and the Iron Age. Firstly, a number of well-documented cases are described, discussing the specific circumstances of each... more
This paper examines the temporal permanence of megalithic monuments in the Iberian south-west during the Bronze Age and the Iron Age. Firstly, a number of well-documented cases are described, discussing the specific circumstances of each of them (chronology, funerary ritual, spatial location, etc.). Secondly, an interpretation of the different ideological and social meanings that the utilisation of old megalithic monuments might have had for the communities of the second and first millennia BC is proposed.
Research Interests: Religion, History, Ancient History, Archaeology, Anthropology, and 53 moreArt History, Medieval History, History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Phenomenology, Medieval Iberian History, Architectural History, Neolithic Archaeology, Memory Studies, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Archaeoastronomy, Collective Memory, Social History, Megalithic Monuments, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Late Iron Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Iron Age (Archaeology), Bronze And Iron Age In Mediterrarranean (Archaeology), Heritage interpretation, Historia Social, Protohistory, Iron Age, History of architecture, Historia, Historia de la Arquitectura, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Early Iron Age, Belief Systems, Late Bronze Age, Early Iron Age, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Mediterranean Protohistory, Historia Cultural, Historia Antigua Clásica, Megaliths, Archaeology Iberian Prehistory Iron Age, Iberian Peninsula, Protohistoria, Megalithic tombs, Anthropology of Religion, The Uses of Archaeology, and History of Archaeological Theory
The primary aim of the fieldwork carried out at the Llano de la Belleza dolmen (Aroche, Huelva) in June 2004 was to provide empirical evidence concerning the internal structure and organisation of this monument in order to facilitate a... more
The primary aim of the fieldwork carried out at the Llano de la Belleza dolmen (Aroche, Huelva) in June 2004 was to provide empirical evidence concerning the internal structure and organisation of this monument in order to facilitate a more informed strategy for its dissemination to the general public. This fieldwork has principally consisted of a high precision topographic survey and magnetometry survey of the mound and its surrounding area, as well as graphic and photographic recording of various menhir-like stones embedded in the architecture of the megalithic chamber and which had not been previously recorded.
Research Interests:
En este artículo se describen los principales resultados obtenidos en las prospecciones de superficie realizadas en la zona de afección del embalse de Los Melonares (Sevilla). Este embalse, cuya construcción se encuentra actualmente en... more
En este artículo se describen los principales resultados obtenidos en las prospecciones de superficie realizadas en la zona de afección del embalse de Los Melonares (Sevilla). Este embalse, cuya construcción se encuentra actualmente en marcha, inundará unos 15 km2 del curso medio y alto del río Viar, afluente del río Guadalquivir a la altura de Cantillana (Sevilla). Las prospecciones realizadas han permitido identificar y caracterizar un total de 39 yacimientos arqueológicos y varios sitios de interés paleontológico y etnológico que se van a ver afectados de distinta forma y en distinto grado por esta gran obra pública, posibilitando así la adopción por parte de la Consejería de Cultura de ulteriores medidas preventivas y compensatorias con respecto al Patrimonio Cultural de la zona.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
En este artículo se describe el fundamento conceptual para un estudio del megalitismo en un sector de Andalucía occidental. La aproximación seguida se articula en torno a tres grandes ejes o dimensiones de estudio. Una es la territorial... more
En este artículo se describe el fundamento conceptual
para un estudio del megalitismo en un sector de Andalucía
occidental. La aproximación seguida se articula en torno a tres grandes ejes o dimensiones de estudio. Una es la territorial (Presencia), donde se considera el megalitismo contra las variables que configuran la economía y la territorialidad de las sociedades de la Prehistoria Reciente. Otra es la social y simbólico-religiosa (Inmanencia), y considera el papel de las construcciones megalíticas dentro de los sistemas de reproducción ideológica que explican y justifican del orden social y cósmico dentro de tales sociedades. La tercera dimensión
es la temporal (Permanencia), donde se considera el
megalitismo desde la perspectiva de su proyección en
el tiempo, es decir, su propia evolución y su articulación
dentro de (y con) los paisajes creados por sociedades
posteriores, no constructoras de megalitos.
para un estudio del megalitismo en un sector de Andalucía
occidental. La aproximación seguida se articula en torno a tres grandes ejes o dimensiones de estudio. Una es la territorial (Presencia), donde se considera el megalitismo contra las variables que configuran la economía y la territorialidad de las sociedades de la Prehistoria Reciente. Otra es la social y simbólico-religiosa (Inmanencia), y considera el papel de las construcciones megalíticas dentro de los sistemas de reproducción ideológica que explican y justifican del orden social y cósmico dentro de tales sociedades. La tercera dimensión
es la temporal (Permanencia), donde se considera el
megalitismo desde la perspectiva de su proyección en
el tiempo, es decir, su propia evolución y su articulación
dentro de (y con) los paisajes creados por sociedades
posteriores, no constructoras de megalitos.
Research Interests:
This paper synthesizes the currently available data on the radiocarbon chronology of the south-western Iberian Bronze Age. First, the bulk of c. 1000 existing dates for southern Iberian Late Prehistory is analysed, and its main issues... more
This paper synthesizes the currently available data on the radiocarbon chronology of the south-western Iberian Bronze Age. First, the bulk of c. 1000 existing dates for southern Iberian Late Prehistory is analysed, and its main issues discussed. Secondly, a discussion is presented of the main features of settlement and funerary patterns in the south-western Bronze Age as dated by radiocarbon, with special emphasis in issues such as their temporal evolution and synchrony with the south-eastern record.
Research Interests: History, Ancient History, Cultural History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, and 72 moreAnthropology, Social Anthropology, Death Studies, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Settlement Patterns, Funerary Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Funeral Practices, Bronze Age Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Radiocarbon, Social History, Prehistoric Settlement, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Radiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Cultural Anthropology, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Middle Bronze Age, 14C dating (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Bronze And Iron Age In Mediterrarranean (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Arqueología, Historia Social, Settlement archaeology, Historia, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Archaeology of burials, Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age, Chronology, Late Bronze Age, Early Iron Age, Prehistoric Archeology, Edad Del Bronce, Funeral Archaeology, Late Bronze Age, Prehistoria, Radiocarbon Dating, Archaeology of death and burial, Dating, Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), Historia Cultural, Chronology Building, Burial Customs, Bronze Age metal hoards, 14C dating, absolute chronology, Funeral Monuments, Radiocarbon Age Calibration, Ancient chronology, Radiocarbon Dates, Radiocarbon Chronology, Funeral Rites, Prehistoria, Edad del Bronce, Bronce Final Penínusla Ibérica, Iberian Bronze Age, The Sociology of Death, Dying and Funerals, Bronce Atlántico, Periodisation, Funeral Customs, Bronce Final Atlántico, and Cronología Arqueológica
En 1988 fue aprobado por la Dirección General de Bienes Culturales de la Junta de Andalucía el Proyecto titulado Análisis y definición de los procesos culturales del II milenio a.C en el Suroeste peninsular. El desarrollo de este Programa... more
En 1988 fue aprobado por la Dirección General de Bienes Culturales de la Junta de Andalucía el Proyecto titulado Análisis y definición de los procesos culturales del II milenio a.C en el Suroeste peninsular. El desarrollo de este Programa de Investigación Arqueológica entre 1988 y 1994, ha permitido generar una cantidad importante de evidencias empíricas relativas al poblamiento de Sierra Morena Occidental en la Edad del Bronce.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests: Human Geography, Social Geography, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Spatial Analysis, and 13 moreLandscape Archaeology, Settlement Patterns, Archaeological GIS, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Settlement archaeology, Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age, and Late Bronze Age
"Las dataciones radiocarbónicas de El Trastejón en el marco de la cronología absoluta de la Edad del Bronce (c. 2200-850 cal ANE) en el Sur de la Península Ibérica." ["The El Trastejón radiocarbon dates in the framework of the Southern Iberian Bronze Age absolute chronology (c. 2200-850 cal BC)."]more
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Bronze Age Archaeology, Radiocarbon, and 12 moreLate Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), 14C dating (Archaeology), Settlement archaeology, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Chronology, Late Bronze Age, and Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology)
This paper examines the role of metallurgy and metal productions in the ideology of Early Bronze Age societies (c. 2200-1500 cal ANE) in the Iberian South-West. To this end, a review of the empirical record available for the study of... more
This paper examines the role of metallurgy and metal productions in the ideology of Early Bronze Age societies (c. 2200-1500 cal ANE) in the Iberian South-West. To this end, a review of the empirical record available for the study of funerary practices is made. Particular attention is paid to the presence of metal objects in funerary contexts, as well as their association to people of higher social status. As a conclusion, the relevant evidence is examined in sociological terms. A number of issues concerning the relevance of metal productions in the dynamics of social inequality and social hierarchisation are discussed.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Funerary Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Bronze Age Archaeology, and 12 moreDeath and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Middle Bronze Age, Ancient Metallurgy, Copper age, Prehistoric Metallurgy, Archaeology of death and burial, and Burial Customs
Pottery from the Bronze Age of southwest Spain has traditionally been approached from a “typological” stand seeking the establishment of chronological sequences. This article examines ceramics from two different Bronze Age sites, a... more
Pottery from the Bronze Age of southwest Spain has traditionally been approached from a “typological” stand seeking the establishment of chronological sequences. This article examines ceramics from two different Bronze Age sites, a settlement (El Trastejón) and a necropolis (La Traviesa), from an archaeometric viewpoint. The methodology involved includes mineralogical characterization by XRD and optical microscopy, chemical analysis by XRF, and morphometric analysis through digital processing of thin sections. The analytical results are contextualized within the general framework of our current archaeological knowledge of both sites and their general background, and then a preliminary interpretation is proposed in terms of the prehistoric technology of pottery manufacture and functionality
Research Interests:
In 1992 and 1993, 27 Early Bronze cist burials were excavated at the site of La Traviesa, located at Almadén de la Plata (Seville, Spain), in the western Sierra Morena region of South-West Spain. This chapter presents a general study of... more
In 1992 and 1993, 27 Early Bronze cist burials were excavated at the site of La Traviesa, located at Almadén de la Plata (Seville, Spain), in the western Sierra Morena region of South-West Spain. This chapter presents a general study of the empirical evidence obtained at this site, including the architecture, contents and spatial distribution of the tombs. Of particular interest is an unusually large burial, consisting of a megalithic cist (c. 3 x 1.5 m) covered by a stone cairn, which was located at the highest ground of this cemetery, and which contained a remarkable copper halberd as well as other items. La Traviesa is discussed within the general framework of Early Bronze Age burial practices in SW Iberia.
Research Interests: Funerary Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Ceramic Analysis (Archaeology), Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), and 5 moreIberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), and Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology)
In 1992 and 1993 27 Early Bronze cist burials were excavated at the site of La Traviesa, located in Almadén de la Plata (Seville, Spain), in the western Sierra Morena region of South-West Spain. This chapter presents the settlement... more
In 1992 and 1993 27 Early Bronze cist burials were excavated at the site of La Traviesa, located in Almadén de la Plata (Seville, Spain), in the western Sierra Morena region of South-West Spain. This chapter presents the settlement background to this site in the Copper Age and Early Bronze Age. Using the available published data, the distribution patterns of sites dating to 3rd and early-2nd millennia BC in western Sierra Morena are discussed.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), and 10 moreLandscapes in prehistory, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Early Bronze Age, and Copper age
Research Interests: Archaeology, Anthropology, Mediterranean prehistory, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Quantitative Methods, and 8 moreDeath and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Mediterranean archaeology, Prehistory, Quantitative methods (Archaeology), and Computer Applications & Quantitative Methods in Archaeology (CAA)
The results of a rescue excavation carried out in 1990 in the Early Bronze Age necropolis of Guadajira (Badajoz, Spain) are presented. Once the empirical evidence has been analysed from a pluridisciplinar perspective (archaeological,... more
The results of a rescue excavation carried out in 1990 in the Early Bronze Age necropolis of Guadajira (Badajoz, Spain) are presented. Once the empirical evidence has been analysed from a pluridisciplinar perspective (archaeological, bio-archaeological, archaeometallurgical and archaeo-environmental), Guadajira is assessed within the broader context of the transition to the Bronze Age both in the middle Guadiana Basin and southwestern Iberia.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Funerary Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Bronze Age Archaeology, and 15 moreSpanish archaeology, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Burial mounds (Archaeology), Archaeology of burials, Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, and Iberian prehistory
This paper examines how monuments with ‘local’ idiosyncrasies are key in processes of place-making and how, through persistence, such places can engage in supra-local and even ‘global’ dynamics. Departing from a detailed revision of its... more
This paper examines how monuments with ‘local’ idiosyncrasies are key in processes of place-making and how, through persistence, such places can engage in supra-local and even ‘global’ dynamics. Departing from a detailed revision of its context, materiality, and iconography, we show how a remarkable Iberian ‘warrior stela’ brings together the geo-strategic potential of a unique site, located literally between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic worlds, the century-long dialogue between shared and local identities and the power of connectivity of inexorable global processes. Previous approaches to Iberian late prehistoric stelae have had problems in developing bottom-up, theoretically informed and empirically-sound approaches to their simultaneously local and supra-local character. The remarkable site of Almargen provides the opportunity to explore this issue. Located in Lands of Antequera (Malaga), a region with a strong tradition of landscape-making through monuments going back to the Late Neolithic, the Almargen ‘warrior stela’ serves us to explore the notion of ‘glocalisation’, which embodies persistent local engagements with material culture, sites and landscapes on the one hand, and their connections with wider regional and even ‘global’ worlds on the other.
Research Interests: Prehistoric Archaeology, Digital Archaeology, Globalization And Postcolonial Studies, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Digital imaging, and 12 moreLate Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Digital Photogrammetry applied to Archaeology, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Bronze and Iron Ages in Eastern Mediterranean (Archaeology), Reflectance Transformation Imaging, Placemaking, Late Bronze Age, Petrography, Chaîne Opératoire, Provenancing of archaeological materials, and Analysis of Pigments on Ancient Artifacts
Iberian ‘warrior’ stelae have captured the imagination of researchers and the public for more than a century. Traditionally, stelae were considered ‘de-contextualised’ monuments, and research typically focused on the study of their... more
Iberian ‘warrior’ stelae have captured the imagination of researchers and the public for more than a century. Traditionally, stelae were considered ‘de-contextualised’ monuments, and research typically focused on the study of their iconography, paying little or no attention to their immediate contexts. As a result, despite the large number of these stelae known to date (c. 140) and the ample body of literature that has dealt with them, fundamental questions remain unanswered. This paper aims to demonstrate the potential of a multidisciplinary and contextual approach to push forward the research agenda on these monuments through a case study. Firstly, we introduce the Mirasiviene stela and the methods deployed for its investigation, which include a variety of digital imaging techniques, petrography, pXRF, intensive survey and multi-scalar spatial analysis. Secondly, we discuss the results in relation to three main topics: stela biography, social practices and landscape context. Comparisons to the well-known nearby Bronze Age and Iron Age site of Setefilla are made throughout the discussion. Ultimately, this paper makes a case for the stelae of Mirasiviene and Setefilla being polyvalent monuments made by local artisans, that served both as a landmarks and memorials in connection with dense late second and early first millennium BCE settlement patterns in the region. Probably linked to elites, ‘houses’ or kin groups of this time, stelae were set in symbolically-charged places, liminal spaces nearby water, burials and pathways, attracting a range of ritual activities throughout the centuries. The study of the newly discovered Mirasiviene stela shows that multidisciplinary, cutting-edge non-destructive archaeology can shed significant new light on these prehistoric monuments, thus providing a glimpse of what in our opinion is a paradigm shift in the research of similar monuments throughout Europe.
Research Interests: Prehistoric Archaeology, Geoarchaeology, Landscape Archaeology, Digital Archaeology, Archaeological Method & Theory, and 14 moreSurvey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Iron Age (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistoric Rock Art, Iron Age, Archaeological survey, Reflectance Transformation Imaging, Late Bronze Age, and 3d Modelling
"A formal question frequently asked in Iberian archaeology is that of the surface treatment of late prehistoric and protohistoric stelae. These stone monuments, usually engraved following several models, could have been painted, as... more
"A formal question frequently asked in Iberian archaeology is that of the surface treatment of late prehistoric and protohistoric stelae. These stone monuments, usually engraved following several models, could have been painted, as various apparent colours randomly detected suggest. A complete study on a wide series of stelae would clarify the question, but due to different factors (mainly of an economic nature, but also linked to the need of sampling in order to perform most analytical techniques), this kind of study has never been conducted. This contribution presents the methodology and results of the study of the external appearance of two engraved southern Spanish stelae: Mirasiviene (Sevilla), which is a typical warrior stela from the Iberian south-west, and Montoro (Córdoba), a likely Early Iron Age pseudo-epigraphic stela."
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Art History, Mediterranean prehistory, Epigraphy (Archaeology), and 15 moreHistory of Reading and Writing, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), History of Art, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Prehistoric Art, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Iron Age (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Prehistoric Rock Art, Iron Age, and Prehistoric Archeology
A remarkable stela from Montoro, southern Spain, is unique in its morphology, epigraphic traits and landscape context. A programme of chemical characterisation, digital imaging, and geo-lithological and epigraphic analyses were conducted... more
A remarkable stela from Montoro, southern Spain, is unique in its morphology, epigraphic traits and landscape context. A programme of chemical characterisation, digital imaging, and geo-lithological and epigraphic analyses were conducted to determine its age and significance, and the results were integrated with data from archaeological investigations of the surrounding area. This multi-faceted approach allowed the stela to be interpreted within the context of early interactions between literate Mediterranean societies of the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age and non-literate Iberian societies. A key outcome of this research is a wider understanding of the complex patterns in the use and perception of early scripts.
Research Interests: History, Ancient History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, and 15 moreRock Art (Archaeology), History of Reading and Writing, Undeciphered Scripts, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Ancient Scripts, Aegean Scripts, Paleohispanic scripts & languages, History of Writing Systems, Epigraphy, Inscriptions, Epigrafia, Scripts, Epigraphie, Alphabets, and Epigraphie Phénico-punique
RTI is a powerful technique for recording, interpreting, and disseminating rock art. RTI enhances the perception of the micro-topography of the rock surface and it is particularly helpful for the study of engraved art. Subtle details,... more
RTI is a powerful technique for recording, interpreting, and disseminating rock art. RTI enhances the perception of the micro-topography of the rock surface and it is particularly helpful for the study of engraved art. Subtle details, such as the traces left by different engraving techniques, the outlines of motifs or superimpositions are more clearly revealed through RTI's interactive re-light and enhancement tools. This paper describes the application of RTI for the re-examination of two Iberian southwestern stelae, Setefilla and Almadén de la Plata 2, whose preserved decoration is engraved. Previous studies focused on the iconographic analysis of motifs and employed methods of examination and recording that posed limitations. Based on the more robust data provided by RTI and supported by RTI's tools for surface interpretation, we provide a new analysis of the decorated surfaces of both stelae, including insights into their manufacturing techniques and later modification.
Research Interests: History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Humanities Computing (Digital Humanities), Anthropology, and 70 moreArt History, Visual Anthropology, Digital Humanities, History of Religion, Mediterranean prehistory, Rock Art (Archaeology), Archaeological Method & Theory, History of Sculpture, Cultural History of War, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Sculpture, Bronze Age Archaeology, History of Art, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Social History, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Cultural Anthropology, Symbolism (Art History), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Prehistoric Art, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Archaeological Methodology, Iron Age (Archaeology), History of War, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Bronze And Iron Age In Mediterrarranean (Archaeology), Prehistory, Digital Image Processing, Prehistoric Rock Art, Iron Age, Rock Art, Historia, Reflectance Transformation Imaging, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Early Iron Age, Archaeological Method and Theory, ESCULTURA, Bronze Age, Arte Rupestre, Iron Age archaeology, Prehistoric Archeology, Historia del Arte, Late Bronze Age, Prehistoria, History of Art and Architecture, História da arte, Rock art research, Historia y Teoria del Arte y la Arquitectura, Archaeology/Digital Humanities, ARTES PLÁSTICAS, ESCULTURA, Archaeology and Art History, Landscape and Rock Art, Stelae, Anthropomorphic Stelae, Arte Rupestre Prehistórico, Art and Art History, Rock art recording, Art History / Historia del Arte, Digital Humanites, Anthropology of Religion, Rock Engraving, Estelas Del Suroeste, Rock Engravings, Rock Art Study, Ancient Warriors, and Stelaes of Eurasian Bronze Age
The iconography of a stela recently found in Almadén de la Plata (Seville, Spain), showing a pair of human figures portraying rather distinctive attributes, poses a number of challenges to the conventional wisdom attached to these... more
The iconography of a stela recently found in Almadén de la Plata (Seville, Spain), showing a pair of human figures portraying rather distinctive attributes, poses a number of challenges to the conventional wisdom attached to these monuments in terms of mythological constructs and power structures. Similarly, the intensive survey fieldwork carried out at the location of this particular find and its surroundings suggests that more emphasis has to be put on the diachronic dimension of the local cultural traditions these outstanding monuments were part of.
Research Interests: Mythology, Iconography, Art History, Spatial Analysis, History of Religion, and 25 moreLandscape Archaeology, Rock Art (Archaeology), Cultural Memory, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Prehistoric Art, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Comparative mythology, Sacred Landscape (Archaeology), Ancient Warfare, Prehistoric Rock Art, Social Complexity, Rock Art, Early Iron Age, Bronze Age, Late Bronze Age, Early Iron Age, Late Bronze Age, Bronze Age swords, Ancient Weapons and Warfare, Rock art research, Landscape and Rock Art, Stelae, Anthropomorphic Stelae, and Iberian Bronze Age
This paper presents the study of two prehistoric stelae recently found in the North of the province of Sevilla (Andalusia, Spain). First, the circumstances of both discoveries are described, as part of the ongoing archaeological research... more
This paper presents the study of two prehistoric stelae recently found in the North of the province of Sevilla (Andalusia, Spain). First, the circumstances of both discoveries are described, as part of the ongoing archaeological research that the University of Sevilla has been carrying out in western Sierra Morena since the late 1980s. Secondly, both are analysed from various perspectives, including their morphology and symbolism, their technological characterisation as well as their functional, spatial and territorial contexts.
Research Interests: Religion, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mythology, Iconography, and 52 moreArt History, History of Religion, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Rock Art (Archaeology), Cultural Landscapes, History of Sculpture, Ancient Religion, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Bronze Age Archaeology, Collective Memory, History of Art, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Landscapes in prehistory, Ancient myth and religion, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Landscape, Prehistoric Art, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Late Iron Age (Archaeology), Iron Age (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Bronze And Iron Age In Mediterrarranean (Archaeology), Prehistory, Prehistoric Rock Art, Iron Age, Rock Art, Early Iron Age, Bronze Age, Arte Rupestre, Iron Age archaeology, Late Bronze Age, Early Iron Age, Historia del Arte, Stelae with Diadems, Late Bronze Age, Mitologia, Prehistoria, Arqueología del Paisaje, Iconografia, Paisaje, Archaeology Iberian Prehistory Iron Age, Rock art research, Landscape and Rock Art, Stelae, Anthropomorphic Stelae, Anthropology of Religion, and Ancient Warriors
"In the last years, the matter of the Romanization of Baetica has started to receive more attention, thus reactivating a topic largely assumed to be unproblematic in earlier approaches. Stemming from this interest, the present paper... more
"In the last years, the matter of the Romanization of Baetica has started to receive more attention, thus reactivating a topic largely assumed to be unproblematic in earlier approaches. Stemming from this interest, the present paper reviews theoretical and methodological approaches applied so far in the study of Roman rule in Baetica, before proposing new conceptualizations, research methods and insights that should clarify the development of this process of cultural change in this province. For this purpose, a GIS-based approach combining archaeological and geographic data is used to explore the settlement patterns and their diachronic transformation in two designated study areas (west Sierra Morena and Lands of Antequera). This approach provides the basis for a fresh understanding on how the local communities were transformed following the Roman intervention in southern Iberia."
Research Interests: History, Ancient History, European History, Geography, Historical Geography, and 15 moreArchaeology, Economic Geography, Landscape Archaeology, Settlement Patterns, Archaeological GIS, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Archaeology of Roman Hispania, Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Iron Age (Archaeology), Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Hispania, Roman Archaeology, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
English: The "Dossier" section of Comechingonia's issue 17 includes eight collaborations devoted to the topic of spatial analysis and the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in the Archeology of the Spanish-speaking world.... more
English: The "Dossier" section of Comechingonia's issue 17 includes eight collaborations devoted to the topic of spatial analysis and the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in the Archeology of the Spanish-speaking world. The papers presented, which include case studies from Spain, Mexico, Argentina and Uruguay, illustrate the diversity of approaches with which the study of the spatial dimension of human behavior in Spanish-speaking countries is currently being considered. In this introduction we discuss this diversity is made, which is placed in the context of the evolution of archaeological theories and techniques of study of the spatiality of the human societies, both in a general sense, as in the specific case of the countries of dossier's coordinators, Argentina, Spain and Mexico.
Spanish: La sección de "Dossier" del número 17 de la revista Comechingonia incluye 8 colaboraciones dedicadas al tema del análisis espacial y la aplicación de los Sistemas de Información Geográfica (SIG) en la Arqueología del mundo de habla hispana. Los trabajos presentados, que incluyen estudios de caso de España, México, Argentina y Uruguay, ilustran la diversidad de aproximaciones con que actualmente se plantea el estudio de la dimensión espacial de la conducta humana en los países de habla española. En esta introducción se realiza una valoración de dicha diversidad, que es puesta en el contexto de la evolución de las teorías y técnicas arqueológicas de estudio de la espacialidad de las sociedades huamanas, tanto en un sentido general, como en el caso concreto de los países en los que desarrollan su trabajo los coordinadores de este dossier, Argentina, España y México.
Spanish: La sección de "Dossier" del número 17 de la revista Comechingonia incluye 8 colaboraciones dedicadas al tema del análisis espacial y la aplicación de los Sistemas de Información Geográfica (SIG) en la Arqueología del mundo de habla hispana. Los trabajos presentados, que incluyen estudios de caso de España, México, Argentina y Uruguay, ilustran la diversidad de aproximaciones con que actualmente se plantea el estudio de la dimensión espacial de la conducta humana en los países de habla española. En esta introducción se realiza una valoración de dicha diversidad, que es puesta en el contexto de la evolución de las teorías y técnicas arqueológicas de estudio de la espacialidad de las sociedades huamanas, tanto en un sentido general, como en el caso concreto de los países en los que desarrollan su trabajo los coordinadores de este dossier, Argentina, España y México.
Research Interests: Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Political Geography and Geopolitics, Social Geography, and 38 morePrehistoric Archaeology, Spatial Analysis, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Historiography, Archaeological Method & Theory, Cultural Landscapes, Landscape History, Funerary Archaeology, Archaeological GIS, Neolithic Archaeology, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Archaeological Theory, Remote sensing and GIS applications in Landscape Research, Andean Prehistory (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Geo-spatial analysis with GIS and GPS, Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Archaeological Methodology, Archaeological Methodes and Pratices, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, History of Archaeology, Archaeological survey, Archaeological Method and Theory, South American Archaeology, Cultural Landscape, Territory, Arqueología del Paisaje, Statistical Techniques in Spatial Analysis, Sistemas de Información Geografica, Geografía, Historiografía, HUMAN TERRITORY AND TERRITORIALITY, Territory and Territorialization Processes, Landscape and Land-use-history, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Territory and Territoriality Studies
Research Interests: Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Historical Geography, Political Geography and Geopolitics, and 56 moreSocial Geography, Prehistoric Archaeology, Economic Geography, Spatial Analysis, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Settlement Patterns, Cultural Landscapes, Landscape History, Archaeological GIS, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Archaeology, Landscapes in prehistory, Spatial Statistics, Territory (Political Theory), Prehistoric Settlement, Political Geography, Spatial Theory, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Spatial archaeology, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Fortified Settlements (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Middle Bronze Age, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Settlement archaeology, Neolithic, Late Prehistory, Territoriality, Early Bronze Age, Prehistoric Archeology, Cultural Landscape, Late Bronze Age, Copper age, Prehistoria, Geografía Humana, Territory, Chalcolithic, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Statistical Techniques in Spatial Analysis, Territorialidad, Patrones De Asentamiento, Territorio, Settlement & Landscape research, Andalusian Prehistory, Géographie, Geografia Social, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
English: Traveling is an inherent act of the human being. From searching for water, to moving to remote regions to trade or exchange products, traveling at different geographical scales has been an essential activity in the development of... more
English: Traveling is an inherent act of the human being. From searching for water, to moving to remote regions to trade or exchange products, traveling at different geographical scales has been an essential activity in the development of any society. Today, we have a wide network of communications and increasingly accesible means of transport and mobility is often a mechanical task without further complications. However this was not always so. In Prehistory, traveling posed a series of practical difficulties, as there were no maps or any of the existing conveniences available today. Through the application of methods of spatial analysis and concepts taken from landscape archaeology, this paper examines evidence regarding the possible forms of land navigation and orientation occurring in Iberian Late Prehistory, including distribution of monuments, historical communication routes and least-cost routes.
Spanish: Viajar es un acto inherente al ser humano. Desde buscar agua, hasta trasladarse a regiones remotas para comerciar o intercambiar productos, viajar a diversas escalas geográficas ha constituido una actividad esencial en el desarrollo de cualquier sociedad. Hoy en día, contamos con una amplia red de comunicaciones y medios de transporte cada vez más comunes donde desplazarse, constituye una tarea mecánica y sin complicaciones. Sin embargo, esto no fue siempre así. Durante la Prehistoria, viajar representó enfrentarse a una serie de dificultades prácticas, ya que no se contaba con mapas o cualquiera de las comodidades existentes hoy en día. Mediante la aplicación de métodos de análisis espacial y conceptos tomados de la arqueología del paisaje, este trabajo examina una serie de indicios indirectos (distribución de monumentos, rutas de comunicación históricas, rutas óptimas) de las posibles formas de navegación terrestre y orientación habidas en la Prehistoria Reciente de al península Ibérica.
Spanish: Viajar es un acto inherente al ser humano. Desde buscar agua, hasta trasladarse a regiones remotas para comerciar o intercambiar productos, viajar a diversas escalas geográficas ha constituido una actividad esencial en el desarrollo de cualquier sociedad. Hoy en día, contamos con una amplia red de comunicaciones y medios de transporte cada vez más comunes donde desplazarse, constituye una tarea mecánica y sin complicaciones. Sin embargo, esto no fue siempre así. Durante la Prehistoria, viajar representó enfrentarse a una serie de dificultades prácticas, ya que no se contaba con mapas o cualquiera de las comodidades existentes hoy en día. Mediante la aplicación de métodos de análisis espacial y conceptos tomados de la arqueología del paisaje, este trabajo examina una serie de indicios indirectos (distribución de monumentos, rutas de comunicación históricas, rutas óptimas) de las posibles formas de navegación terrestre y orientación habidas en la Prehistoria Reciente de al península Ibérica.
Research Interests: Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Historical Geography, Social Geography, and 42 moreCartography, Spatial Analysis, Spatial Modeling, Mobility/Mobilities, Landscape Archaeology, Anthropology of Mobility, Archaeological Method & Theory, Cultural Landscapes, History of Cartography, Landscape History, Archaeological GIS, Neolithic Archaeology, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Cartographic History, Territory (Political Theory), Megalithic Monuments, Remote sensing and GIS applications in Landscape Research, Spatial Theory, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Landscape, Megaliths (Archaeology), Archaeological Methodology, Territoriality, Historical Cartography, Archaeological Method and Theory, Terrestrial Navigation, Geografia, Cultural Landscape, Megalithism, Copper age, Territory, Territorio, Landmarks, Monuments, Megaliths, Travelling, Caminería Hispánica, Terrestrial Routes, Trashumance, Caminería Histórica, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
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English: "In Archaeology, GIS have been used mainly as platforms for the integration of spatial information. However, its maximum potential lies in the combination of various tools and techniques for both data recording and spatial... more
English: "In Archaeology, GIS have been used mainly as platforms for the integration of spatial information. However, its maximum potential lies in the combination of various tools and techniques for both data recording and spatial analysis. The available applications range from the documentation of heritage and the analysis of distributions of archaeological sites, to the resolution of complex questions in diverse research topics. In this paper we discuss several case-studies related to southern Spanish Late Prehistory. GIS has been a main methodological foundation for our research. All the examples presented here come from research projects carried out jointly by the universities of Seville (Spain) and Southampton (United Kingdom) during the period 2001-2007 and most of them have already been published previously. The purpose is to illustrate the experience gained with the use of GIS in the study of archaeological evidence at different spatial scales (micro and macro)."
Spanish "En la disciplina arqueológica, los Sistemas de Información Geográfica han sido utilizados principalmente como plataformas para la integración de información espacial. Sin embargo, su máximo potencial radica en la combinación de diversas herramientas y técnicas tanto de registro como de análisis espacial, cuya aplicación abarca desde la documentación del patrimonio para su puesta en valor y el análisis de distribuciones simples y los contextos espaciales arqueológicos, hasta la resolución de preguntas complejas en temas de investigación. En el presente trabajo, se discuten diversos casos arqueológicos relacionados con la Prehistoria Reciente del Sur de España, en cuyo estudio la utilización de un SIG ha sido un fundamento metodológico principal. Todos los ejemplos presentados proceden de investigaciones realizadas conjuntamente por las universidades de Sevilla y Southampton (Reino Unido) durante el periodo 2001-2007 y de la mayoría de los cuales ya se han realizado publicaciones previas. La finalidad es ilustrar la experiencia que se ha obtenido con el uso de esta herramienta en el estudio de la evidencia arqueológica a diferentes escalas (micro y macro)."
Spanish "En la disciplina arqueológica, los Sistemas de Información Geográfica han sido utilizados principalmente como plataformas para la integración de información espacial. Sin embargo, su máximo potencial radica en la combinación de diversas herramientas y técnicas tanto de registro como de análisis espacial, cuya aplicación abarca desde la documentación del patrimonio para su puesta en valor y el análisis de distribuciones simples y los contextos espaciales arqueológicos, hasta la resolución de preguntas complejas en temas de investigación. En el presente trabajo, se discuten diversos casos arqueológicos relacionados con la Prehistoria Reciente del Sur de España, en cuyo estudio la utilización de un SIG ha sido un fundamento metodológico principal. Todos los ejemplos presentados proceden de investigaciones realizadas conjuntamente por las universidades de Sevilla y Southampton (Reino Unido) durante el periodo 2001-2007 y de la mayoría de los cuales ya se han realizado publicaciones previas. La finalidad es ilustrar la experiencia que se ha obtenido con el uso de esta herramienta en el estudio de la evidencia arqueológica a diferentes escalas (micro y macro)."
Research Interests: Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Social Geography, Cartography, and 42 moreSpatial Analysis, Landscape Archaeology, GPS Applications, Archaeological Method & Theory, Cultural Landscapes, Historic Landscapes, Archaeological GIS, Neolithic Archaeology, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Spatial Data Analysis, Prehistoric Settlement, Megalithic Monuments, Remote sensing and GIS applications in Landscape Research, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Landscape, Geo-spatial analysis with GIS and GPS, Archaeological Fieldwork, Megaliths (Archaeology), Spatial archaeology, Ancient Topography (Archaeology), Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Territoriality, Archaeological survey, Ancient Topography, Mapping, Megalithism, Copper age, Topography, Digital mapping, Surveying and Mapping, Statistical Techniques in Spatial Analysis, Sistemas de Información Geografica, Territorio, Megalitismo, Geografía, Megaliths, Spatial Analysis and Predictive Modelling in Archaeology, Topografia, Megalithic tombs, Prospección Arqueológica, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
This article discusses the criteria and methodology applied for the insertion and later development of the archaeological terminology into the Andalusian Thesaurus of the Historical Heritage (TAPH), published in 1998. Firstly, the... more
This article discusses the criteria and methodology applied for the insertion and later development of the archaeological terminology into the Andalusian Thesaurus of the Historical Heritage (TAPH), published in 1998. Firstly, the background and precedents that gave way to the creation of such documentation language are dealt with. Secondly, we comment upon the problems encountered in the integration of the archaeological vocabulary within a thesaurus that comprises several other heritage-related disciplines such as Architecture, Ethnology or Art History. Thirdly, the significance of the TAPH five years after its publication is evaluated, with a special emphasis in the process of its implementation and computerisation within the Information System of the Andalusian Historical Heritage.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Humanities Computing (Digital Humanities), Digital Humanities, Documentation, Archaeological Method & Theory, and 25 moreArchaeological Information Systems (AIS), Archaeological documentation, Archaeology of Buildings, Archaeological Informatics, Cultural Heritage Management, Heritage Management, Databases, Archaeological Heritage Management, Archaeological Information Science, Conservation and protection of monuments, Documentación, Thesaurus, Monuments, Bases de datos, Sites and Monuments Record, Thesaurus Construction, Thesauri, Archaeological Information System, Tesauros, Thesaurus and Ontology, Digital Humanites, Humanidades Digitales, Lenguajes Documentales: Tesauros, Gestión del Patrimonio Cultural en Andalucía, and Ancient sites and monuments
This paper presents a review of some aspects of the archaeological survey in which the impact of GIS has been most relevant. Those aspects include survey design and planning, geo-referencing of archaeological entities (error correction,... more
This paper presents a review of some aspects of the archaeological survey in which the impact of GIS has been most relevant. Those aspects include survey design and planning, geo-referencing of archaeological entities (error correction, increase of precision and homogenisation of projections), cartographic representation (with especial emphasis in map intelligibility and micro-topography of individual sites), as well as the integration of survey data with information collated from other sources (geophysical prospection, air photography, etc.).
Research Interests: History, Geography, Human Geography, Historical Geography, Cartography, and 15 moreLandscape Archaeology, Iberian Studies, Archaeological GIS, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Archaeological survey, Archaeological field survey, Landscape Archaeology, Field Archaeology, Archaeological GIS, Digital cartography, Archaeological surveying and mapping, Prospección Arqueológica, Ancient Geography and Cartography, and Territory and Territoriality Studies
"The representation of sites, traditionally one of the main objects of archaeological cartography, demands solving a series of problems ranging from inaccurate field observation (surface visibility, limits definition, density of material... more
"The representation of sites, traditionally one of the main objects of archaeological cartography, demands solving a series of problems ranging from inaccurate field observation (surface visibility, limits definition, density of material evidence, etc.) to topological definitions more in line with the intrinsic nature of the archaeological record. The introduction of GIS in Archaeology since the beginning of the 1990s provided a whole new basis for the spatial representation of archaeological sites (and other archaeological events that would not be properly described as 'sites'). This had a particularly significant impact in the field of management and protection of cultural property, where the precision and quality of the spatial representation bears legal, administrative and economic implications. GPS technology contributes to solve the old problem of accuracy in the georeferencing of archaeological sites and events. In this paper we presents various examples of how the use of differential GPS allows archaeological cartography to overcome old problems, providing a high level of detail in terms of form, extension and topography, while at the same time significantly reducing the costs."
Research Interests: Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Historical Geography, Cartography, and 49 moreLandscape Archaeology, GPS Applications, Archaeological Method & Theory, Cultural Landscapes, Archaeological GIS, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Archaeology of Buildings, Spanish archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Geo-spatial analysis with GIS and GPS, Archaeological Fieldwork, Megaliths (Archaeology), Ancient Topography (Archaeology), Archaeological Methodology, Arqueología, Archaeological survey, Archaeological field survey, GPS, Archaeological Surveying, Geografia, Mapping, Topography, Arqueología del Paisaje, Digital mapping, Surveying and Mapping, Sistemas de Información Geografica, Landscape Archaeology, Field Archaeology, Archaeological GIS, Surface topography, Cartografia Humanistica, Megaliths, Prospeccion, Archaeological field methods, Topografia, RTK DGPS, DGPS, Archaeological surveying and mapping, Arqueologia Del Paisaje, Archaeological Method and Fieldwork, GPS and DGPS, Prospección Arqueológica, Geodesy and Global Positioning System (GPS) and Their Applications In Earth Sciences, Archaeological Surveys, Archaeological Fieldwork In Practice and Theory, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geographic Information Systems GIS), Differential GPS (DGPS), and DGPS Survey
"This book deals with Sites and Monuments Records (SMRs), that is to say one of the basic components of that bloodstream of information that flows between archaeological organisations. Because they provide the fundamental empirical basis... more
"This book deals with Sites and Monuments Records (SMRs), that is to say one of the basic components of that bloodstream of information that flows between archaeological organisations. Because they provide the fundamental empirical basis for the existence of an archaeological heritage in need of protection, SMRs are widely regarded as the backbone of ARM. More specifically, this book looks at the spatial dimension of SMRs. This involves us in a variety of areas including archaeological ground reconnaissance, the spatial definition, structure and density of the archaeological evidence as well as the integration of spatial and other kinds of data. Of great relevance are issues such as the introduction of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and supra-national (in this case European) cooperation. The discussions presented in this book all suggest that, when these areas are considered, current European SMRs display not only varying conceptual frameworks, but also rather different stages of development, both in the breadth and depth of the data."
Research Interests: Geography, Human Geography, Cultural Geography, Historical Geography, Social Geography, and 44 moreCartography, Archaeology, Humanities Computing (Digital Humanities), Digital Humanities, Spatial Analysis, Cultural Heritage, Heritage Studies, Landscape Archaeology, Archaeological Method & Theory, Cultural Heritage Conservation, Heritage Conservation, Archaeological GIS, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Cultural Heritage Management, Cultural Resource Management (Archaeology), Heritage Management, Spatial analysis (Archaeology), Archaeological Methodology, Archaeological Heritage Management, GIS and Landscape Archaeology, Archaeological survey, Archaeological Method and Theory, Patrimonio Cultural, Geografia, Mapping, Cartografia, Cultural Resources Management, Geografía Humana, Digital mapping, Cultural Resource Management, Sistemas de Información Geografica, Cartografia Humanistica, Sites and Monuments Record, Digital cartography, Patrimônio Histórico, Patrimônio Cultural, Cultural Resources, Digital Humanites, Arqueología del Paisaje y Gestión del Patrimonio Cultural, Humanidades Digitales, Prospección Arqueológica, Management of Natural and Cultural Resources, Registro Y Catalogación De Bienes Culturales Muebles Histórico-artisticos, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
"En este artículo se describe el proceso de integración de la terminología arqueológica dentro del Tesauro de Patrimonio Histórico de Andalucía. Dada la aproximación temática, y no disciplinar, seguida para la elaboración de este... more
"En este artículo se describe el proceso de integración de la terminología arqueológica dentro del Tesauro de Patrimonio Histórico de Andalucía. Dada la aproximación temática, y no disciplinar, seguida para la elaboración de este documento, dicho proceso ha requerido una meticulosa observación de las principales areas de solapamiento léxico entre la Arqueología y algunas de sus disciplinas académicas más afines, especialme nte la Etnología o la Arquitectura. Este proceso ha implicado el diseño de una jerarquía conceptual relativamente ajena a algunas de las tradiciones disciplinares representadas, pero que en conjunto es capaz de acomodar la terminología arqueológica sin excesivas dificultades. Se discuten algunos de los problemas más sobresalientes experimentados, incluyendo el número de términos disponible (limitación en la profundidad y precisión de la terminología), la existencia de polisemias (matización del significado de la terminología) o la presencia de ambiguedades en la definición de los términos."
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Although much has been written about the use of information technologies for the management of archaeological resources at a national level, there has been little published discussion of the problems and opportunities that are apparent at... more
Although much has been written about the use of information technologies for the management of archaeological resources at a national level, there has been little published discussion of the problems and opportunities that are apparent at the supra-national scale. In this paper, we consider the historical development and current state of database management systems and, more recently, geographic information systems in the management of archaeological information at a European scale. We review the development of archaeological inventories, from paper-based records to complex computer-based systems and then consider the situation throughout Europe, taking account of archaeological needs as well as the administrative, social and political context. Our study reveals that, despite widespread acknowledgement of the advantages of such technologies, GIS has not been rapidly or consistently deployed. A very wide variety of systems and standards currently exist throughout the community, a situation which is explained through reference to the separate historical development of archaeological management structures in the different countries. We identify a number of common issues that recur wherever GIS has been applied to the management of archaeological inventories. Particular attention is drawn to historical and logistical issues, the availability of technological skills, geo-referencing, and the spatial definition of the archaeological evidence and the definition of analytical concepts within archaeological management.
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In the last two decades, the contributions of the feminist movement and gender studies have fostered significant advances in Spanish academic archaeology. This, however, has not led to a parallel debate on the criteria on which... more
In the last two decades, the contributions of the feminist movement and gender studies have fostered significant advances in Spanish academic archaeology. This, however, has not led to a parallel debate on the criteria on which archaeological heritage dissemination products are made. In this paper, we present a simple quantitative review of a sample of 39 audiovisual productions made in Spain between 2000 and 2013 in order to assess the representation of men and women and how sexual division of labour is portrayed. As a result, we find that gender representation is far from balanced within these productions, as obvious androcentric biases are present, especially regarding sexual division of labour. We briefly present and discuss ethnographic and archaeological evidence that show that such a biased representation of sexual division of labour and gender roles has no scientific base, and therefore can only be attributed to social and ideological prejudices, which are probably unconsciously applied. For scientific as well as ethical and social reason, a high quality public dissemination of Prehistory must necessarily abandon such biases.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Gender Studies, Anthropology, Visual Studies, and 15 moreVisual Anthropology, Archaeology of Gender, Public Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Gender and Sexuality, Gender, Gender Equality, Gender Archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Visual Arts, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Arqueología, and Women and Gender Studies
This study was undertaken in the summer of 2010 and is based on an exhaustive survey of the book reviews section in the European Journal of Archaeology (EJA) covering the period 1998-2009. It is intended as a means of reflecting on the... more
This study was undertaken in the summer of 2010 and is based on an exhaustive survey of the book reviews section in the European Journal of Archaeology (EJA) covering the period 1998-2009. It is intended as a means of reflecting on the future directions the EJA reviews section should move on to. The report covers data concerning the affiliation of the authors/editors and reviewers by country, country of book publication, the language of the reviewed book, the regional focus of the reviewed book, as well as the gender of authors/editors and reviewers. The results suggest some interesting trends in the way scientific production is currently debated within our discipline at a European level.
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This paper assesses the impact that the introduction of scientific methods for materials characterisation (conventionally grouped under the label of Archaeometry) has had in the methodological configuration of Spanish archaeology over... more
This paper assesses the impact that the introduction of
scientific methods for materials characterisation (conventionally
grouped under the label of Archaeometry) has had in the methodological configuration of Spanish archaeology over the last two decades. This is achieved through a bibliometric
study of publications dealing with characterisation of archaeological ceramics from Andalusia (southern Spain). The variables handled in this study include aspects such as the number of sampled sites and items, their geographical provenance, the chronological and functional dimensions of the archaeological contexts they were taken from as well as the analytical techniques employed in their study.
scientific methods for materials characterisation (conventionally
grouped under the label of Archaeometry) has had in the methodological configuration of Spanish archaeology over the last two decades. This is achieved through a bibliometric
study of publications dealing with characterisation of archaeological ceramics from Andalusia (southern Spain). The variables handled in this study include aspects such as the number of sampled sites and items, their geographical provenance, the chronological and functional dimensions of the archaeological contexts they were taken from as well as the analytical techniques employed in their study.
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In Spain, the existence of a well-established legal deterrent to the looting of archaeological sites dates back only to 1985, when the Law of the Spanish Historical Heritage was promulgated. Since the transfer in the early 1980s of all... more
In Spain, the existence of a well-established legal deterrent to the looting of archaeological sites dates back only to 1985, when the Law of the Spanish Historical Heritage was promulgated. Since the transfer in the early 1980s of all responsibilities in cultural resource management from the Spanish central government to the regional authorities, the relevant law in Andalusia has been the Law of the Historical Heritage of Andalusia, passed by the regional parliament in July 1991. Using data compiled from the ARQUEOS database, developed and maintained by the Documentation Centre of the Andalusian Institute of the Historical Heritage (IAPH), as well as examples taken from the specialised bibliography and the media, we examine the current situation of site looting and illicit trade of archaeological objects in Andalusia.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Cultural Heritage, Heritage Studies, Cultural Heritage Conservation, Cultural Heritage Management, and 7 moreIberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Illicit Antiquities Trade, Archaeological Heritage Management, Looting Art, Archaeology; Looting, Protection of Cultural Heritage from Illicit Trafficking, Repatriation of Antiquities, and Antiquities Looting
El debate propuesto en esta sección de Vivat Academia sobre modelos de carrera universitaria es tanto más interesante y oportuno cuanto que a mi juicio está claro que en el momento actual se está abriendo en nuestro país un periodo de... more
El debate propuesto en esta sección de Vivat Academia sobre modelos de carrera universitaria es tanto más interesante y oportuno cuanto que a mi juicio está claro que en el momento actual se está abriendo en nuestro país un periodo de profunda reflexión y autocrítica sobre nuestro actual modelo universitario. Esta reflexión viene marcada sin duda por el bochorno desatado entre muchos académicos españoles por el famoso editorial de Nature (Diciembre de 1998) sobre la endogamia académica nacional, pero creo que, como está dejando claro el excelente foro de discusión propuesto por la AACTE, tiene mucho más alcance, yendo más allá del problema concreto del lamentable derrotero que ha seguido el sistema de contrataciones de investigadores y profesores en buena parte de nuestra universidad, y afectando en general a muchos aspectos del diseño y conceptualización de la institución universitaria.
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Desde una perspectiva crítica, este trabajo realiza un ensayo de valoración historiográfica del paradigma de investigación predominante en las áreas de Arqueología Clásica e Historia Antigua en Andalucía occidental durante los últimos 20... more
Desde una perspectiva crítica, este trabajo realiza un ensayo de valoración historiográfica del paradigma de investigación predominante en las áreas de Arqueología Clásica e Historia Antigua en Andalucía occidental durante los últimos 20 años.
Research Interests: History, Ancient History, Archaeology, Classical Archaeology, Historiography, and 11 moreHistory of Science, Archaeological Method & Theory, Spanish History, Spanish archaeology, Archaeological Theory, Arqueología, History of Archaeology, Historia Antigua Clásica, Historiografia, Historia Antigua, and Roman Archaeology
Research Interests: History, Demography, Archaeology, Anthropology, Bioarchaeology, and 15 moreMediterranean prehistory, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Bronze Age Archaeology, Social Organisation (Archaeology), Death and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, Archaeology of death, and Bronce Age (Archaeology)
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Research Interests: History, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, and 32 moreArt History, Mediterranean prehistory, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Social Organisation (Archaeology), Social History, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Funerary Architecture, Neolithic, History of architecture, Archaeology of burials, Funerary Practices, Prehistoric Archeology, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Prehistoria, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), and Anthropology of Religion
"Kinship societies cope with conflicts and contradictions either through fission or by displacing them onto the supernatural realm. Though we are barely scratching the surface of an incredibly complex site, the exceptional evidence... more
"Kinship societies cope with conflicts and contradictions either through fission or by displacing them onto the supernatural realm. Though we are barely scratching the surface of an incredibly complex site, the exceptional evidence displayed in this monograph strongly suggests that—at the peak period of collective action—the inhabitants of Valencina de la Concepción were exploring elaborate ritual pathways to mediate these contradictions." Abstract by Pedro Díaz-del-Río
Research Interests: Religion, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Art History, and 50 moreBioarchaeology, History of Religion, Mediterranean prehistory, Kinship (Anthropology), Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Pottery, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Physical Anthropology, History of Art, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Anthropology of Kinship, Spanish archaeology, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Social Inequality (Anthropology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, North African prehistory (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Kinship and Relatedness (Anthropology), Neolithic, Social Inequality, Funerary Practices, Prehistoric Archeology, Funeral Archaeology, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Copper age, Archaeology of prestige, Chalcolithic, Chalcolithic Metallurgy, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Archaeology of death and burial, Late Chalcolithic, Iberian prehistory, Funeral Monuments, Funeral Rites, Archaeology of the Funeral Ritual, The Sociology of Death, Dying and Funerals, Prestige goods economy, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), Anthropology of Religion, and Funeral Customs
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), and 8 moreIberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Megalithic Art, Copper age, Megaliths, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
"Everything evoked in this masterful book borders uniqueness and excess: the site itself (Valencina de la Concepción, at over 400 ha, is the largest Copper Age settlement in Western Europe), the monument analysed (the largest tholos in... more
"Everything evoked in this masterful book borders uniqueness and excess: the site itself (Valencina de la Concepción, at over 400 ha, is the largest Copper Age
settlement in Western Europe), the monument analysed (the largest tholos in southern Iberia after El Romeral), the grave goods (the largest amounts of ivory and
amber found at any site in Iberia; the exceptional technical quality of the artefacts), and finally, the human remains (particularly a group of women, submerged
in a spiritual or esoteric setting dominated by the colour red, resulting from habitual use of cinnabar, which perhaps may have led to some of their deaths). When closing the final pages of this collective work (with 22 chapters by 45 authors from a range of countries)
the reader is left with the feeling that the historiography of the European Copper Age has just experienced a leap ahead, considering how the skilfully organised interdisciplinarity can help us better approach the complexity of societies at the end of the Neolithic."
settlement in Western Europe), the monument analysed (the largest tholos in southern Iberia after El Romeral), the grave goods (the largest amounts of ivory and
amber found at any site in Iberia; the exceptional technical quality of the artefacts), and finally, the human remains (particularly a group of women, submerged
in a spiritual or esoteric setting dominated by the colour red, resulting from habitual use of cinnabar, which perhaps may have led to some of their deaths). When closing the final pages of this collective work (with 22 chapters by 45 authors from a range of countries)
the reader is left with the feeling that the historiography of the European Copper Age has just experienced a leap ahead, considering how the skilfully organised interdisciplinarity can help us better approach the complexity of societies at the end of the Neolithic."
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Bioarchaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Funerary Archaeology, and 18 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, Prehistory, Neolithic, Funerary Practices, Prehistoric Archeology, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, and Megaliths
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Bioarchaeology, Material Culture Studies, and 26 moreMediterranean prehistory, Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Prehistoric Rock Art, Neolithic, Copper age, Chalcolithic Metallurgy, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, Bioarchaeology, Osteology, Paleopathology, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), and Anthropology of Religion
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, History of Religion, History of Christianity, Mediterranean prehistory, and 26 moreReligion and Politics, History and Memory, Early Christianity, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Commemoration and Memory, Collective Memory, Prehistoric religion and r ritual a, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Landscapes in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Public Memory, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Prehistoric Art, North African prehistory (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Prehistoric Rock Art, Oral History and Memory, Prehistoric Archeology, Megalithic Art, Prehistoria, Megaliths, and Anthropology of Religion
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Roman History, Medieval Literature, and 15 moreMedieval History, Medieval Studies, History and Memory, Early Medieval Archaeology, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Iron Age, Archaeology of death and burial, and Roman Archaeology
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Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, History of Art, and 10 moreMegalithic Monuments, Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Art, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Prehistoric Rock Art, History of architecture, Megalithic Art, History of Art and Architecture, and Megaliths
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Research Interests: Religion, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Roman History, Medieval Literature, and 19 moreMedieval History, History of Religion, Early Medieval Archaeology, Medieval Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Cultural Memory, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Megalithic Monuments, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Neolithic, Iron Age, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Archaeology of death and burial, Megaliths, and Roman Archaeology
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Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Social Archaeology, Late Bronze Age archaeology, and 8 moreIron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Iron Age, Early State Formation, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Copper age, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
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Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, State Formation, Neolithic Archaeology, and 8 moreChalcolithic Archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Social Inequality (Anthropology), Prehistory, Social Inequality, Early State Formation, and Archaeology Iberian Prehistory Iron Age
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, State Formation, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), and 12 moreNeolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Social Organisation (Archaeology), Death and Burial (Archaeology), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Chiefdoms (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Origins of the State, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, and Social Complexity (Archaeology)
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, State Formation, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), and 6 moreNeolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Social Inequality (Anthropology), Social Inequality, Early State Formation, and Social Complexity (Archaeology)
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Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, State Formation, Neolithic Archaeology, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), and 9 moreNeolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Social Inequality (Anthropology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Social Inequality, Early State Formation, Social Complexity (Archaeology), and Copper age
Research Interests: Prehistoric Archaeology, Funerary Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 18 moreMegalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistory, Neolithic, Funerary Practices, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, Megalitismo, Megaliths, and Megalithic tombs
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, History of Religion, History of Textiles, Neolithic Archaeology, and 12 moreNeolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Prehistoric Technology, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Prehistoric Europe (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistory, Social Complexity (Archaeology), History of clothing and fashion, Prehistoric Lithic Technology, and Anthropology of Religion
"At the General Assembly held in Istanbul on July 15, 2016, UNESCO granted World Heritage status to the megalithic site of Antequera. After this declaration, Antequera becomes Spain's third Prehistoric site included in the World Heritage... more
"At the General Assembly held in Istanbul on July 15, 2016, UNESCO granted World Heritage status to the megalithic site of Antequera. After this declaration, Antequera becomes Spain's third Prehistoric site included in the World Heritage List, alongside Altamira (Santander) and Atapuerca (Burgos). At the same time, Antequera joins the short but outstanding list of major megalithic sites that are already on the UNESCO List, which in Europe includes the impressive Neolithic monuments of the Boyne Valley (Ireland), Stonehenge and Avebury (United Kingdom), Orkney Islands (United Kingdom) and Temples of Malta (Malta). In this paper we discuss the results of research carried out at Menga in the last 15 years. The powerful landscape dimension of this monument suggests that, far from merely being a "sepulchre", as it was described throughout the 20th century, Menga was a temple devoted to the main natural forces shaping the Neolithic world-view: earth, the sun and water."
Research Interests: History, Geography, Archaeology, Anthropology, Landscape Archaeology, and 15 moreMediterranean prehistory, Cultural Landscapes, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, World Cultural Heritage, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, History of architecture, Anthropology of Religion, and UNESCO world heritage
"Todo en Montelirio es singular. Los artefactos descubiertos, la construcción en sí misma, o las personas inhumadas en él, todo apunta a que este enterramiento no es como los demás. El conjunto hallado parece fruto de una coreografía... more
"Todo en Montelirio es singular. Los artefactos descubiertos, la construcción en sí misma, o las personas inhumadas en él, todo apunta a que este enterramiento no es como los demás. El conjunto hallado parece fruto de una coreografía orquestada hace casi 5000 años: objetos de colores, mujeres vestidas con trajes de cuentas blancas, cuerpos y paredes pintadas de brillante rojo, objetos elaborados en marfil, restos de la combustión de hierbas aromáticas que un día debieron perfumar el ambiente. Todo cuidadosamente ordenado alrededor de una estela que, situada en el centro de la cámara principal, observa la escena a través de sus ojos soles, en silencio."
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 15 moreReligion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Anthropology of Death, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Arqueología, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Archaeology of death and burial, Burial Customs, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Mediterranean prehistory, Funerary Archaeology, and 14 moreReligion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), North African prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Social Complexity, Social Complexity (Archaeology), Megalithic Art, Burial Customs, and Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain)
"The megalithic tomb at Montelirio is off the scale in more ways than one. As well as being the largest example of its type known in Spain, the burial goods secreted in its subterranean chambers are unsurpassed in both quantity and... more
"The megalithic tomb at Montelirio is off the scale in more ways than one. As well as being the largest example of its type known in Spain, the burial goods secreted in its subterranean chambers are unsurpassed in both quantity and quality. Leonardo García Sanjuán reveals what the dead of Montelirio can tell us about Copper Age society."
Research Interests: Religion, Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Art History, Architecture, and 111 moreHistory of Religion, Mediterranean prehistory, History and Memory, Funerary Archaeology, Ancient Religion, Neolithic Archaeology, Social and Collective Memory, Cultural Memory, Funeral Practices, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Pottery, Chalcolithic Archaeology, Collective Memory, History of Art, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Flint (Archaeology), Megalithic Monuments, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Social Evolution, Anthropology of Death, Chiefdoms (Archaeology), Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Social Inequality (Anthropology), Burial Practices (Archaeology), Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, Prehistoric Art, Pigments (Chemistry), Neolithic flint procurement, North African prehistory (Archaeology), European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Burial mounds (Archaeology), Arqueología, Neolithic, Social Complexity, History of architecture, Social Inequality, Memory, Primitive Accumulation, Figurines, Prehistoric Figurines, Oral History and Memory, Beads, Arqueología De La Arquitectura, Archaeology of burials, Flint Technology, Political Economy in Chiefdom-Level Societies, Quartz, Historia del Arte, Funeral Archaeology, Megalithism, Megalithic Art, Arqueología Social, Chiefdoms, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Archaeology of death and burial, Conspicuous Consumption, Neolithic figurines, Flintknapping, Ancient Pigments Analysis, Burial Customs, História da arte, Pigments, History of Pigments, Megalitismo, Rock Crystal, zoomorphic Figurines, Funeral Monuments, Megaliths, Hierarchically Complex Social Systems, Ivory and bone technology, Ivory, Ivory Carving, Stone beads, Social Hierarchies, Funeral Rites, Megalithic tombs, Archaeology of the Funeral Ritual, Ancient beads, Prehistoric Ditched Enclosures, Acorn, The Sociology of Death, Dying and Funerals, Ivory and Bone Working, Acorns, Cinnabar, Pigment Analysis of Paintings, Chiefdom, Art and Art History, Iberian Cinnabar, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), Antler, bone, horn & ivory artefacts, Anthropology of Religion, History of Architecture, Rock Crystal and Hardstones, Acorns, History of Eating, Pigmentos Naturales, Funeral Customs, Complex Chiefdoms, Analysis of Pigments on Ancient Artifacts, Study of Acorns, Acorns As a Food Source, Nutritional Value of Acorns, Rock-crystal, Early Class Society, Archaeological Chiefdoms, Rock crystal in Antiquity, Chiefdom Religion, Ancient cinnabar mining, Prehistoric ochre and cinnabar, and Rock Crystal artifacts
Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Anthropology, Landscape Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, and 15 moreNeolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Religion and ritual in prehistory, Megalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Neolithic Europe, European Prehistory (Archaeology), Prehistory, Prehistoric Rock Art, Neolithic, Megalithism, Megaliths, and Antequera (Archaeology)
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Research Interests: Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Neolithic & Chalcolithic Archaeology, Chalcolithic Archaeology, and 12 moreMegalithic Monuments, Iberian Prehistory (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Iberian Peninsula, Megaliths (Archaeology), Prehistory, Megalithic Art, Copper age, Neolithic & Chalcolithic enclosures, Megaliths, Sevilla, Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain), and Antequera (Archaeology)
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On May 19th 2016 ICOMOS has made public its final report on the Dolmens of Antequera bid to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This report fully accepts the Outstanding Universal Values proposed in the bid, while making a positive evaluation... more
On May 19th 2016 ICOMOS has made public its final report on the Dolmens of Antequera bid to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This report fully accepts the Outstanding Universal Values proposed in the bid, while making a positive evaluation of the commitment shown by the local and regional authorities towards a special plan for the site's urban environment as well as a redefinition of the site museum. The UNESCO World Heritage Committee will vote on the Dolmens of Antequera bid in the meeting to be held in Istambul on July 10-20th 2016.