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The Dolmens of La Lentejuela Teba

Step into the past as we uncover the captivating story of two megalithic Bronze Age dolmens in the La Lentejuela Teba necropolis of southern Spain. Discover the secrets held by these ancient burial portals that bridged civilizations and learn how modern technology is preserving their legacy.

By Nick Nutter | Last Updated 2024-02-14 | Titbits and News from the Mare Nostrum

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Excavating the Dolmens of La Lentejuela Teba

Imagine a journey back in time, to an era when civilizations were still taking their first steps towards grandeur. In the sun-soaked landscapes of southern Spain lies a treasure trove of history that has captured the hearts of historians and archaeologists alike. The La Lentejuela Teba necropolis, nestled near the vibrant modern city of Malaga, was unearthed in 2005, unravelling a tale that spans millennia.

Dating back to 4,000 BC, this burial site has a narrative that didn't end with its initial build. It was reused during the Bronze Age, flourishing again between 2200 BC and 800 BC. What secrets lay hidden beneath the soil, waiting for modern archaeologists to unveil? Let's embark on a thrilling journey to the past, guided by a team of intrepid researchers from the University of Cadiz (UCA), who have uncovered two megalithic wonders within this ancient landscape.

The heart of the discovery lies in the megalithic Bronze Age dolmens, two megalithic burial portals that have stood the test of time for over 6,000 years. These colossal structures were not only a tribute to craftsmanship but a tribute to the societal elites who found their eternal rest within. Built eons ago, these portals were rebuilt or remodelled during the Bronze Age, becoming the final sanctuaries for the elite members of that time.

What is a Dolmen?

As we delve into this captivating narrative, one might wonder: what exactly is a "dolmen"? Picture an architectural marvel, an ancient tomb that speaks volumes about the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. These structures, found across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, are like whispers from the past, revealing some of the earliest architectural feats achieved by human hands.

The essence of a dolmen lies in its composition: towering upright stones that cradle a horizontal capstone, reminiscent of a grand table. These megalithic wonders were often regarded as portals, not merely for their stunning physicality, but for the spiritual journey they signified. These portals safeguarded the remains of the departed, a solemn ritual accompanied by treasures of pottery, tools, and ornaments.

In a world that's rapidly evolving, how does one preserve the essence of these ancient wonders? The answer lies in modern technology and innovation. Professor Serafín Becerra from UCA, the trailblazer behind this excavation, led a team armed with cutting-edge tools. They employed drone aerial photography, photogrammetry, 3D digital scanning, precise topography using total stations, and other state-of-the-art technologies. With these tools, they meticulously documented every aspect of the La Lentejuela Teba necropolis, allowing us to peer into the past with unprecedented clarity.

In the words of Professor Becerra, "We used modern marvels to uncover ancient marvels."

As we stand at the crossroads of history and modernity, the La Lentejuela Teba necropolis stands as a testament to human curiosity and determination. It bridges the gap between eras, allowing us to walk alongside our ancestors, uncovering the stories they etched into stone. The megalithic Bronze Age dolmens are not just structures; they are bridges to our past, beckoning us to listen to the whispers of history echoing through time.