Licenciada en Geografía e Historia, especialidad Prehistoria y Arqueología, Suficiencia Investigadora y una amplia formación en Arqueozoología, siendo ésta uno de mis intereses principales, orientados fundamentalmente hacía los mamíferos desde el neolítico hasta época medieval y al uso de todo tipo de estos recursos animales. Desde el año 1993 estoy dedicada profesionalmente a la arqueología, desarrollándola en los ámbitos asociados al patrimonio histórico, arqueológico y arqueozoológico, tanto en España como fuera de ella. Miembro de varios grupos de investigación en los que desarrollo diferentes aspectos de mi labor investigadora en el ámbito de la arqueología prehistórica y arqueozoología fundamentalmente. Experiencia en gestión, coordinación, asesoramiento y ejecución de intervenciones arqueológicas en todo tipo de contextos y de épocas históricas.
Resumen: En los últimos años, se han detectado en Valencina una serie de estructuras funerarias d... more Resumen: En los últimos años, se han detectado en Valencina una serie de estructuras funerarias del tipo cueva artificial. Estos hallazgos han abierto una nueva perspectiva respecto al variado panorama funerario que se constata en este asentamiento, tanto en la configuración del mismo, conformándose como autenticas necrópolis con cuevas artificiales, como en el emplazamiento geográfico que ocupan tanto en el propio yacimiento como a nivel regional. Abstract: Last years, there have been detected in Valencina a several funerary structures of caves type. These findings have opened a new perspective into the diversified funerary panorama that is stated in this site, so in its configuration (conforming as authentic necropolis of artificial caves) as well in the geographical settlement in the archaeological site and in the regional level.
The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, near Seville in the lower Guadalquivir valley of so... more The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, 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 millennia cal BC. This paper discusses 178 radiocarbon dates, from 17 excavated sectors within the 450ha site, making it the best dated in later Iberian prehistory as a whole. Dates are formally modelled in a Bayesian statistical framework. The bulk of samples were chosen from the varied mortuary contexts, from pits and artificial caves to megalithic tholos tombs, which constitute a major part of the archaeology of Copper Age Valencina. The resulting formal date estimates provide the basis for both a new epistemological approach to the site as well as 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. 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. Probably by the 30th or 29th century cal BC, a new form of mortuary practice had emerged alongside older traditions, in the shape of the distinctive megalithic tholos tombs, some of which contained exotic and abundant goods accompanying the dead. Though the models lack precision, this phase of showy funerals and social display, perhaps aimed at establishing new forms of descent and social hierarchisation partly based on the manipulation of the past, may not have lasted much beyond the 28th century cal BC. It is possible that activity as a whole had declined before the middle of the third millennium cal BC, and around 2500 cal BC,
The settlement of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain) is one of the
most important sites ... more The settlement of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain) is one of the most important sites in the Iberian Prehistory, not only for its great tombs, but also due to its magnitude. Unlike utilitarian vessels, frequent in the archaeological record, the presence of bell beaker ceramics is relatively scarce and is reduced to small fragments from superficial contexts or early archaeological excavations. However, recent archaeological work in the upper part of the settlement has provided new information and additional readings on these productions. The presence of a large number of bell beaker sherds found in association with prestige goods gave us the possibility to evaluate the manufacturing processes and explore their symbolic meaning, proposing alternative interpretations about the role of these items as vehicles for the legitimation of power.
El asentamiento de Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla, España) es un referente en la arqueología prehistórica peninsular, no sólo por sus grandes tumbas, sino también por su gran magnitud. A pesar de las innumerables evidencias sólo recientemente la componente cerámica ha sido objeto de un amplio estudio que ha permitido proponer un primer modelo de organización técnica y social de la producción alfarera. Por el contrario, la presencia de cerámica campaniforme es relativamente escasa y se reduce a pequeños fragmentos procedentes de contextos superficiales o de excavaciones arqueológicas antiguas. No obstante, trabajos arqueológicos recientes en el área habitacional del asentamiento ubicada en la parte más alta del asentamiento han aportado novedosas informaciones y una lectura adicional sobre estas producciones. La presencia de un gran número de registros campaniformes abría la posibilidad de evaluar las características de la materias primas utilizadas y de los procesos de manufactura, explorar su significado simbólico y plantear propuestas alternativas de interpretación sobre el papel de estas producciones cerámicas como vehículos de legitimación de poder.
Collective burials are one of the most common funerary practices during Late Prehistory and show ... more Collective burials are one of the most common funerary practices during Late Prehistory and show a diversity of structural solutions. Nearly all contemporaneous morphological types are known to exist at the 3rd Millennium BC archaeological site Valencina de la Concepción (Seville). In typological terms, these structures discussed here fit well into the types known as ‘artificial caves’. From a morphological point of view, there is significant variability concerning not only architectural aspects but grave goods and anthropological elements as well. Concerning the treatment of the bodies, the most widespread ritual is the hyperflexion of both lower and upper limbs, probably indicating the use of shrouds or bandages. Some individuals seem to share morphological features that might link them to certain family groups; DNA studies were carried out to test this observation. This type of funerary structure is definitely a novelty in the Copper Age site Valencina de la Concepción.
The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, near Seville in the lower Guadalquivir valley of so... more The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, 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 millennia cal BC. This paper discusses 178 radiocarbon dates, from 17 excavated sectors within the 450ha site, making it the best dated in later Iberian prehistory as a whole. Dates are formally modelled in a Bayesian statistical framework. The bulk of samples were chosen from the varied mortuary contexts, from pits and artificial caves to megalithic tholos tombs, which constitute a major part of the archaeology of Copper Age Valencina. The resulting formal date estimates provide the basis for both a new epistemological approach to the site as well as 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. 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. Probably by the 30th or 29th century cal BC, a new form of mortuary practice had emerged alongside older traditions, in the shape of the distinctive megalithic tholos tombs, some of which contained exotic and abundant goods accompanying the dead. Though the models lack precision, this phase of showy funerals and social display, perhaps aimed at establishing new forms of descent and social hierarchisation partly based on the manipulation of the past, may not have lasted much beyond the 28th century cal BC. It is possible that activity as a whole had declined before the middle of the third millennium cal BC, and around 2500 cal BC,
The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, near Seville in the lower Guadalquivir valley of so... more The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, near Seville in the lower Guadalquivir valley of south-west 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 millennia cal BC. This paper discusses 178 radiocarbon dates, from 17 excavated sectors within the 450ha site, making it the best dated in later Iberian prehistory as a whole. Dates are formally modelled in a Bayesian statistical framework. The bulk of samples were chosen from the varied mortuary contexts, from pits and artificial caves to megalithic tholos tombs, which constitute a major part of the archaeology of Copper Age Valencina. The resulting formal date estimates provide the basis for both a new epistemological approach to the site as well as 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. 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. Probably by the 30th or 29th century cal BC, a new form of mortuary practice had emerged alongside older traditions, in the shape of the distinctive megalithic tholos tombs, some of which contained exotic and abundant goods accompanying the dead. Though the models lack precision, this phase of showy funerals and social display, perhaps aimed at establishing new forms of descent and social hierarchisation partly based on the manipulation of the past, may not have lasted much beyond the 28th century cal BC. It is possible that activity as a whole had declined before the middle of the third millennium cal BC, and around 2500 cal BC, dated sectors indicate further changes in mortuary practice, with possible single events, containing in one instance signs of defleshing (perhaps associated with violence); by this date, Bell Beaker pottery was present on the site. Major monuments, such as La Pastora and Matarrubilla were probably also late constructions. At least some of the ditches known at the site probably also belong late in the sequence. Overall, a pattern is indicated of initial establishment and consolidation of mortuary tradition, followed by the emergence of the more elaborate tholos architecture and the sometimes exotic contents. Funerary activity probably declined in intensity in the second quarter of the third millennium cal BC but was followed by a resurgence including the construction of the grand tholos of La Pastora in the generations around 2500 cal BC. This resurgence was relatively brief and the intensive funerary activity probably ended during the 24th century cal BC. Results in general support a model of increasingly competitive but ultimately unstable social relations.
Prospección arqueológica realizada mediante la utilización de “transects” en el sector de la Vill... more Prospección arqueológica realizada mediante la utilización de “transects” en el sector de la Villa de San Juan en Espartinas (Sevilla). Sector que geológicamente se integra en la depresión del Guadalquivir, en la meseta del Aljarafe. De esta zona son conocidas las referencias en las fuentes a ciudades turdetanas, romanas, así como de época musulmana. Son de destacar los restos arqueológicos localizados en Loreto, Chamorro y la Sesenta de época musulmana. Así como los restos encontrados en Tablante, Mejina, Cazalla Almanzor, Paternilla de los Judios y Villalvilla. A lo largo de prospección realizada no se detectaron restos arqueológicos de importancia en esta zona.
Presentamos a continuación un " ídolo tipo tolva " hallado en el Llano de los Covachos (Almadén d... more Presentamos a continuación un " ídolo tipo tolva " hallado en el Llano de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla). Esta representación idolátrica forma parte de la extensa variabilidad tipológica de los productos ideológicos de IV y III milenios a.n.e., muy relacionados con la plasmación física de la ideología predominante. El producto ideológico de Los Covachos destaca, en el SW peninsular, por el soporte material sobre el que está elaborado, siendo el único ejemplar en esta región manufacturado en alabastro, materia prima que se constata de forma recurrente en Andalucía Oriental, más concretamente en la necrópolis de Los Millares.
We present a " bowling pin " found in the Llano de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevi-lla). This idolatrous representation is part of the extensive typological variability of ideological products IV and III millennia BC, closely related to the physical shape of the dominant ideology. The ideological product Los Covachos stresses in the SW peninsular, the material on which support is made, the only copy in this region manufactured in alabaster, raw material is found recurrently in eastern Andalusia, more specifically in the necropolis of Los Millares.
La excavación realizada en el Llano de la Cueva de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla) ha... more La excavación realizada en el Llano de la Cueva de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla) ha proporcionado interesante información sobre la ocupación humana del espacio exterior de la Cueva de los Covachos durante la transición entre el IV‑III milenio a.n.e. Aquí exponemos los resultados preliminares del estudio realizado a los materiales líticos desde una perspectiva tecnocultural.
The excavation at the Llano de la Cueva de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla) has provided interesting information about the human occupation of space outside the Cave of the Covachos during the transition between the IV‑III millennium BC Here we present the preliminary results of the study of lithic materials from a techno‑cultural.
El Patrimonio Arqueológico del Norte de Marruecos presenta una enorme potencialidad para la inves... more El Patrimonio Arqueológico del Norte de Marruecos presenta una enorme potencialidad para la investigación y con vistas a su explotación social y económica, mediante unas propuestas de gestión adecuadas en beneficio de las poblaciones actuales.
Valencina de la Concepción archaeological site, in the Spanish province of Seville, is generally ... more Valencina de la Concepción archaeological site, in the Spanish province of Seville, is generally acknowledged as the most important human settlement from the 3rd millennium BC in Iberia. Its occupation sequence starts with a poorly-represented Final Neolithic and reaches up to Bonze Age. The settlement reached its peak during the 1st half of the 3rd millennium; afterwards, a progressive decline would eventually lead to a rather modest Bronze Age occupation; Bell Beaker ceramics can be assigned to that transitional phase. On the other hand, there is a striking reduction of occupied spaces in the settlements, and Bell Beaker ware is found in association with prestige goods. These facts seem to indicate a moment of social and political crisis, with changes taking place in social structure and in the expressions of power.
El yacimiento del III milenio a.n.e. de Valencina de la Concepción en Sevilla se ha convertido en... more El yacimiento del III milenio a.n.e. de Valencina de la Concepción en Sevilla se ha convertido en los últimos años en un referente para la investigación arqueológica sobre la prehistoria reciente debido al incremento significativo de las excavaciones y de los trabajos de investigación y publicaciones científicas que se ha generado. Un punto de inflexión importante se produjo con la celebración del Congreso en conmemoración del 150 aniversario del descubrimiento de La Cueva de la Pastora celebrado en 2011 que contribuyó a unificar una parte importante de la información disponible y a abrir nuevos debates sobre la complejidad del yacimiento en diferentes ámbitos del conocimiento científico. Su categorización como entidad política sobre un amplio territorio, la variabilidad de los enterramientos, la capacidad de acaparar bienes de prestigio, la organización espacial, entre otros son motivos de debates avivados recientemente. Por ello, creemos que la discusión sobre la división sectorial de yacimiento, iniciada por el Prof. Oswaldo Arteaga y Profa. Rosario Cruz-Auñón en los años 90 del siglo pasado, posee gran interés para entender el grado de complejidad social y las relaciones sociales de producción de las comunidades establecidas en el Bajo Valle del Guadalquivir durante todo el III milenio a.n.e.
The site of the third millennium a.n.e. of Valencina de la Concepción in Sevilla has become in recent years a benchmark for archaeological research on the recent prehistory due to the significant increase of excavations and research and scientific literature that has been generated. A major turning point came with the Congress to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the discovery of La Cueva de la Pastora held in 2011 which helped to unify a large part of the information available and open new debates about the complexity of the site in different fields of scientific knowledge. Its categorization as a political entity on a wide territory, the variability of the burials, the ability to grab prestige goods, spatial organization, among others are reasons recently revived debates. Therefore, we believe that discussion of the sectoral division of deposit, initiated by Prof. Oswaldo Arteaga and Prof.. Rosario Cruz-Auñón in the 90s of last century, has great interest to understand the degree of social complexity and the social relations of production established communities in the Valley of the Guadalquivir throughout the III millennium BC.
With this work we have tried to review an archaeological excavation carried out in 1996 in the si... more With this work we have tried to review an archaeological excavation carried out in 1996 in the site named Señorío de Guzmán in Castilleja de Guzmán in light of the most findings that have ocurred in the recent years. More tahn 20 funerary structures were detected during the work of land preparation, but only were excavated five of them, four prehistoric and one more of "tartesic" date. From prehistoric tombs there were two of masonry with false dome and two stale slabs, all of them with few grave goods but so much interesting, consisting of ivory, copper elements (1 axe) gold (1 decorated sheet), Beaker pottery, beads necklace (limestone, Dentalium and cowries, etc.)
Actas del VI Encuentro de Arqueología del Suroeste Peninsular, Dec 2013
"En los últimos años, se han detectado en Valencina una serie de estructuras funerarias del tipo ... more "En los últimos años, se han detectado en Valencina una serie de estructuras funerarias del tipo cueva artificial. Estos hallazgos han abierto una nueva perspectiva respecto al variado panorama funerario que se constata en este asentamiento, tanto en la configuración del mismo, conformándose cómo autenticas necrópolis con cuevas artificiales, como en el emplazamiento geográfico que ocupan tanto en el propio yacimiento como a nivel regional.
Last years, there have been detected in Valencina a several funerary structures of the type artificial sdcave. These findings have opened a new perspective into the diversified funerary panorama that is stated in this site, so much in the configuration of the same one, conforming as authentic necropolis of artificial caves, as in the geographical emplacement that they occupy so much into the own site as to the regional level."
The Sector Villa San Juan lies east of the population of Espartinas (Sevilla) just over a kilomet... more The Sector Villa San Juan lies east of the population of Espartinas (Sevilla) just over a kilometer from downtown by
the National Road 431 Sevilla-Huelva. In this territory were conducted archeological prospecting work by the method of “transects.”
The Sector located in the province of Seville, geologically falls in the domain of depression Guadalquivir on the plateau of Aljarafe, ravine between the rivers Guadiamar and Guadalquivir. They are extremely soft soil fertility trained in a period of increased
rainfall and temperature, very porous, on the marl impervious allow storage of groundwater.
As a result of these favorable conditions for cultivation is an intense exploitation of these lands dedicated to the vine, olive and
cereals as can be read in the classical and medieval texts (Al-Saqundi S-XII).
There are reports of people turdetanas cited by Ptolemy in its Geography, as Spoletinum (some related to Espartinas). With the
Roman domination are known Lauretum the village, the village of Mejina, Tablante, Paterna, Espartina and Villalvilla.
In the Middle Ages all villages belong to the district Hish al-Farach, (San Juan de Aznalfarache) one of the four districts that
were split in the Muslim era Aljarafe (the remaining three were Aznalcázar, Aznalcollar and Solúcar de Albaida). 1248 with the occupation Christian Seville originates the ultimate colonization of the region.
They are important archaeological remains found in Loreto, Chamorro and Sixty, all of the Muslim era. We also find archaeological remains in Tablante, Mejina, Cazalla Almanzor, Paternilla of the Jews and Villalvilla.
During prospecting were not detected or registered archaeological remains in the sector Villa San Juan. It is not unusual not to locate human settlements, because it is morphologically an area of collection and drain water from adjacent farms.
The made Archaeological activity has its origin in the
installation of a Aeolian Park, denominat... more The made Archaeological activity has its origin in the
installation of a Aeolian Park, denominated “P.E. Majal Alto”, by him organization GAMESA ENERGIA S.A. in the municipal terms of the Puebla de Guzmán, Alosno and the Almendro (Huelva).
We began the works of prospection day 14 of April of 2005, such finalizing day 18 of April, once obtained the pertinent permissions of the competent administration. From the patrimonial point of view, the works of installation of this Aeolian Park did not affect any archaeological deposit, since structures have not been detected material archaeological nor that confirm cultural presence some.
All the inspected territory has been put under an intense activity of operation, consisting of the preparation of plateaus and after the plantation of eucalyptuses and oaks. It has created a landscape intensely altered by the human action, little respectful with the naturalambience of the surroundings and with the possible presence of elements of the cultural patrimony.
XELB. Actas del 8º Encontro de Arqueologia do Algarve
We present the results obtained from the use of laser-scanning technology to a funerary structure... more We present the results obtained from the use of laser-scanning technology to a funerary structure type artificial cave. The use of this technique regardless of its application in science, is a tool for dissemination and preservation of the highest order.
Actas del VI Encuentro de Arqueología del Suroeste, 2014
Ideology is established as one of the fundamental elements of the social relations between groups... more Ideology is established as one of the fundamental elements of the social relations between groups. It needs, as a unifying axis of the human collective, the development of a complex apparatus to highlight.
Thus, in the communities of the third millennium BC are instituted rituals and symbolic activities that we can trace through the archaeological record. One of the most recognizable expressions of ideology for these social formations is the production of idols (ideological products) determined from power as an instrument of social control and intermediary between groups (rules) with equal socio-economic development. Therefore, we are able to make an approach to territorial boundaries based on the dispersion and distribution of these ideological products. In this paper we show the most recent findings of such objects in Valencia de la Concepción to contribute to secure the recognition of this Chalcolithic site as a power center in the Lower Guadalquivir Valley.
XELB. Actas del 8º Encontro de Arqueologia do Algarve
This paper presents the results of the study of animal remains recovered from the excavation in t... more This paper presents the results of the study of animal remains recovered from the excavation in the plain of the Cave of the Covachos (Almaden de la Plata, Sevilla). From it follows a holding priority of domestic species without affecting the wildlife. The sample shows a high degree of fragmentation and splintering that has not helped identification.
Resumen: En los últimos años, se han detectado en Valencina una serie de estructuras funerarias d... more Resumen: En los últimos años, se han detectado en Valencina una serie de estructuras funerarias del tipo cueva artificial. Estos hallazgos han abierto una nueva perspectiva respecto al variado panorama funerario que se constata en este asentamiento, tanto en la configuración del mismo, conformándose como autenticas necrópolis con cuevas artificiales, como en el emplazamiento geográfico que ocupan tanto en el propio yacimiento como a nivel regional. Abstract: Last years, there have been detected in Valencina a several funerary structures of caves type. These findings have opened a new perspective into the diversified funerary panorama that is stated in this site, so in its configuration (conforming as authentic necropolis of artificial caves) as well in the geographical settlement in the archaeological site and in the regional level.
The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, near Seville in the lower Guadalquivir valley of so... more The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, 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 millennia cal BC. This paper discusses 178 radiocarbon dates, from 17 excavated sectors within the 450ha site, making it the best dated in later Iberian prehistory as a whole. Dates are formally modelled in a Bayesian statistical framework. The bulk of samples were chosen from the varied mortuary contexts, from pits and artificial caves to megalithic tholos tombs, which constitute a major part of the archaeology of Copper Age Valencina. The resulting formal date estimates provide the basis for both a new epistemological approach to the site as well as 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. 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. Probably by the 30th or 29th century cal BC, a new form of mortuary practice had emerged alongside older traditions, in the shape of the distinctive megalithic tholos tombs, some of which contained exotic and abundant goods accompanying the dead. Though the models lack precision, this phase of showy funerals and social display, perhaps aimed at establishing new forms of descent and social hierarchisation partly based on the manipulation of the past, may not have lasted much beyond the 28th century cal BC. It is possible that activity as a whole had declined before the middle of the third millennium cal BC, and around 2500 cal BC,
The settlement of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain) is one of the
most important sites ... more The settlement of Valencina de la Concepción (Seville, Spain) is one of the most important sites in the Iberian Prehistory, not only for its great tombs, but also due to its magnitude. Unlike utilitarian vessels, frequent in the archaeological record, the presence of bell beaker ceramics is relatively scarce and is reduced to small fragments from superficial contexts or early archaeological excavations. However, recent archaeological work in the upper part of the settlement has provided new information and additional readings on these productions. The presence of a large number of bell beaker sherds found in association with prestige goods gave us the possibility to evaluate the manufacturing processes and explore their symbolic meaning, proposing alternative interpretations about the role of these items as vehicles for the legitimation of power.
El asentamiento de Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla, España) es un referente en la arqueología prehistórica peninsular, no sólo por sus grandes tumbas, sino también por su gran magnitud. A pesar de las innumerables evidencias sólo recientemente la componente cerámica ha sido objeto de un amplio estudio que ha permitido proponer un primer modelo de organización técnica y social de la producción alfarera. Por el contrario, la presencia de cerámica campaniforme es relativamente escasa y se reduce a pequeños fragmentos procedentes de contextos superficiales o de excavaciones arqueológicas antiguas. No obstante, trabajos arqueológicos recientes en el área habitacional del asentamiento ubicada en la parte más alta del asentamiento han aportado novedosas informaciones y una lectura adicional sobre estas producciones. La presencia de un gran número de registros campaniformes abría la posibilidad de evaluar las características de la materias primas utilizadas y de los procesos de manufactura, explorar su significado simbólico y plantear propuestas alternativas de interpretación sobre el papel de estas producciones cerámicas como vehículos de legitimación de poder.
Collective burials are one of the most common funerary practices during Late Prehistory and show ... more Collective burials are one of the most common funerary practices during Late Prehistory and show a diversity of structural solutions. Nearly all contemporaneous morphological types are known to exist at the 3rd Millennium BC archaeological site Valencina de la Concepción (Seville). In typological terms, these structures discussed here fit well into the types known as ‘artificial caves’. From a morphological point of view, there is significant variability concerning not only architectural aspects but grave goods and anthropological elements as well. Concerning the treatment of the bodies, the most widespread ritual is the hyperflexion of both lower and upper limbs, probably indicating the use of shrouds or bandages. Some individuals seem to share morphological features that might link them to certain family groups; DNA studies were carried out to test this observation. This type of funerary structure is definitely a novelty in the Copper Age site Valencina de la Concepción.
The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, near Seville in the lower Guadalquivir valley of so... more The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, 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 millennia cal BC. This paper discusses 178 radiocarbon dates, from 17 excavated sectors within the 450ha site, making it the best dated in later Iberian prehistory as a whole. Dates are formally modelled in a Bayesian statistical framework. The bulk of samples were chosen from the varied mortuary contexts, from pits and artificial caves to megalithic tholos tombs, which constitute a major part of the archaeology of Copper Age Valencina. The resulting formal date estimates provide the basis for both a new epistemological approach to the site as well as 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. 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. Probably by the 30th or 29th century cal BC, a new form of mortuary practice had emerged alongside older traditions, in the shape of the distinctive megalithic tholos tombs, some of which contained exotic and abundant goods accompanying the dead. Though the models lack precision, this phase of showy funerals and social display, perhaps aimed at establishing new forms of descent and social hierarchisation partly based on the manipulation of the past, may not have lasted much beyond the 28th century cal BC. It is possible that activity as a whole had declined before the middle of the third millennium cal BC, and around 2500 cal BC,
The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, near Seville in the lower Guadalquivir valley of so... more The great site of Valencina de la Concepción, near Seville in the lower Guadalquivir valley of south-west 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 millennia cal BC. This paper discusses 178 radiocarbon dates, from 17 excavated sectors within the 450ha site, making it the best dated in later Iberian prehistory as a whole. Dates are formally modelled in a Bayesian statistical framework. The bulk of samples were chosen from the varied mortuary contexts, from pits and artificial caves to megalithic tholos tombs, which constitute a major part of the archaeology of Copper Age Valencina. The resulting formal date estimates provide the basis for both a new epistemological approach to the site as well as 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. 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. Probably by the 30th or 29th century cal BC, a new form of mortuary practice had emerged alongside older traditions, in the shape of the distinctive megalithic tholos tombs, some of which contained exotic and abundant goods accompanying the dead. Though the models lack precision, this phase of showy funerals and social display, perhaps aimed at establishing new forms of descent and social hierarchisation partly based on the manipulation of the past, may not have lasted much beyond the 28th century cal BC. It is possible that activity as a whole had declined before the middle of the third millennium cal BC, and around 2500 cal BC, dated sectors indicate further changes in mortuary practice, with possible single events, containing in one instance signs of defleshing (perhaps associated with violence); by this date, Bell Beaker pottery was present on the site. Major monuments, such as La Pastora and Matarrubilla were probably also late constructions. At least some of the ditches known at the site probably also belong late in the sequence. Overall, a pattern is indicated of initial establishment and consolidation of mortuary tradition, followed by the emergence of the more elaborate tholos architecture and the sometimes exotic contents. Funerary activity probably declined in intensity in the second quarter of the third millennium cal BC but was followed by a resurgence including the construction of the grand tholos of La Pastora in the generations around 2500 cal BC. This resurgence was relatively brief and the intensive funerary activity probably ended during the 24th century cal BC. Results in general support a model of increasingly competitive but ultimately unstable social relations.
Prospección arqueológica realizada mediante la utilización de “transects” en el sector de la Vill... more Prospección arqueológica realizada mediante la utilización de “transects” en el sector de la Villa de San Juan en Espartinas (Sevilla). Sector que geológicamente se integra en la depresión del Guadalquivir, en la meseta del Aljarafe. De esta zona son conocidas las referencias en las fuentes a ciudades turdetanas, romanas, así como de época musulmana. Son de destacar los restos arqueológicos localizados en Loreto, Chamorro y la Sesenta de época musulmana. Así como los restos encontrados en Tablante, Mejina, Cazalla Almanzor, Paternilla de los Judios y Villalvilla. A lo largo de prospección realizada no se detectaron restos arqueológicos de importancia en esta zona.
Presentamos a continuación un " ídolo tipo tolva " hallado en el Llano de los Covachos (Almadén d... more Presentamos a continuación un " ídolo tipo tolva " hallado en el Llano de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla). Esta representación idolátrica forma parte de la extensa variabilidad tipológica de los productos ideológicos de IV y III milenios a.n.e., muy relacionados con la plasmación física de la ideología predominante. El producto ideológico de Los Covachos destaca, en el SW peninsular, por el soporte material sobre el que está elaborado, siendo el único ejemplar en esta región manufacturado en alabastro, materia prima que se constata de forma recurrente en Andalucía Oriental, más concretamente en la necrópolis de Los Millares.
We present a " bowling pin " found in the Llano de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevi-lla). This idolatrous representation is part of the extensive typological variability of ideological products IV and III millennia BC, closely related to the physical shape of the dominant ideology. The ideological product Los Covachos stresses in the SW peninsular, the material on which support is made, the only copy in this region manufactured in alabaster, raw material is found recurrently in eastern Andalusia, more specifically in the necropolis of Los Millares.
La excavación realizada en el Llano de la Cueva de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla) ha... more La excavación realizada en el Llano de la Cueva de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla) ha proporcionado interesante información sobre la ocupación humana del espacio exterior de la Cueva de los Covachos durante la transición entre el IV‑III milenio a.n.e. Aquí exponemos los resultados preliminares del estudio realizado a los materiales líticos desde una perspectiva tecnocultural.
The excavation at the Llano de la Cueva de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla) has provided interesting information about the human occupation of space outside the Cave of the Covachos during the transition between the IV‑III millennium BC Here we present the preliminary results of the study of lithic materials from a techno‑cultural.
El Patrimonio Arqueológico del Norte de Marruecos presenta una enorme potencialidad para la inves... more El Patrimonio Arqueológico del Norte de Marruecos presenta una enorme potencialidad para la investigación y con vistas a su explotación social y económica, mediante unas propuestas de gestión adecuadas en beneficio de las poblaciones actuales.
Valencina de la Concepción archaeological site, in the Spanish province of Seville, is generally ... more Valencina de la Concepción archaeological site, in the Spanish province of Seville, is generally acknowledged as the most important human settlement from the 3rd millennium BC in Iberia. Its occupation sequence starts with a poorly-represented Final Neolithic and reaches up to Bonze Age. The settlement reached its peak during the 1st half of the 3rd millennium; afterwards, a progressive decline would eventually lead to a rather modest Bronze Age occupation; Bell Beaker ceramics can be assigned to that transitional phase. On the other hand, there is a striking reduction of occupied spaces in the settlements, and Bell Beaker ware is found in association with prestige goods. These facts seem to indicate a moment of social and political crisis, with changes taking place in social structure and in the expressions of power.
El yacimiento del III milenio a.n.e. de Valencina de la Concepción en Sevilla se ha convertido en... more El yacimiento del III milenio a.n.e. de Valencina de la Concepción en Sevilla se ha convertido en los últimos años en un referente para la investigación arqueológica sobre la prehistoria reciente debido al incremento significativo de las excavaciones y de los trabajos de investigación y publicaciones científicas que se ha generado. Un punto de inflexión importante se produjo con la celebración del Congreso en conmemoración del 150 aniversario del descubrimiento de La Cueva de la Pastora celebrado en 2011 que contribuyó a unificar una parte importante de la información disponible y a abrir nuevos debates sobre la complejidad del yacimiento en diferentes ámbitos del conocimiento científico. Su categorización como entidad política sobre un amplio territorio, la variabilidad de los enterramientos, la capacidad de acaparar bienes de prestigio, la organización espacial, entre otros son motivos de debates avivados recientemente. Por ello, creemos que la discusión sobre la división sectorial de yacimiento, iniciada por el Prof. Oswaldo Arteaga y Profa. Rosario Cruz-Auñón en los años 90 del siglo pasado, posee gran interés para entender el grado de complejidad social y las relaciones sociales de producción de las comunidades establecidas en el Bajo Valle del Guadalquivir durante todo el III milenio a.n.e.
The site of the third millennium a.n.e. of Valencina de la Concepción in Sevilla has become in recent years a benchmark for archaeological research on the recent prehistory due to the significant increase of excavations and research and scientific literature that has been generated. A major turning point came with the Congress to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the discovery of La Cueva de la Pastora held in 2011 which helped to unify a large part of the information available and open new debates about the complexity of the site in different fields of scientific knowledge. Its categorization as a political entity on a wide territory, the variability of the burials, the ability to grab prestige goods, spatial organization, among others are reasons recently revived debates. Therefore, we believe that discussion of the sectoral division of deposit, initiated by Prof. Oswaldo Arteaga and Prof.. Rosario Cruz-Auñón in the 90s of last century, has great interest to understand the degree of social complexity and the social relations of production established communities in the Valley of the Guadalquivir throughout the III millennium BC.
With this work we have tried to review an archaeological excavation carried out in 1996 in the si... more With this work we have tried to review an archaeological excavation carried out in 1996 in the site named Señorío de Guzmán in Castilleja de Guzmán in light of the most findings that have ocurred in the recent years. More tahn 20 funerary structures were detected during the work of land preparation, but only were excavated five of them, four prehistoric and one more of "tartesic" date. From prehistoric tombs there were two of masonry with false dome and two stale slabs, all of them with few grave goods but so much interesting, consisting of ivory, copper elements (1 axe) gold (1 decorated sheet), Beaker pottery, beads necklace (limestone, Dentalium and cowries, etc.)
Actas del VI Encuentro de Arqueología del Suroeste Peninsular, Dec 2013
"En los últimos años, se han detectado en Valencina una serie de estructuras funerarias del tipo ... more "En los últimos años, se han detectado en Valencina una serie de estructuras funerarias del tipo cueva artificial. Estos hallazgos han abierto una nueva perspectiva respecto al variado panorama funerario que se constata en este asentamiento, tanto en la configuración del mismo, conformándose cómo autenticas necrópolis con cuevas artificiales, como en el emplazamiento geográfico que ocupan tanto en el propio yacimiento como a nivel regional.
Last years, there have been detected in Valencina a several funerary structures of the type artificial sdcave. These findings have opened a new perspective into the diversified funerary panorama that is stated in this site, so much in the configuration of the same one, conforming as authentic necropolis of artificial caves, as in the geographical emplacement that they occupy so much into the own site as to the regional level."
The Sector Villa San Juan lies east of the population of Espartinas (Sevilla) just over a kilomet... more The Sector Villa San Juan lies east of the population of Espartinas (Sevilla) just over a kilometer from downtown by
the National Road 431 Sevilla-Huelva. In this territory were conducted archeological prospecting work by the method of “transects.”
The Sector located in the province of Seville, geologically falls in the domain of depression Guadalquivir on the plateau of Aljarafe, ravine between the rivers Guadiamar and Guadalquivir. They are extremely soft soil fertility trained in a period of increased
rainfall and temperature, very porous, on the marl impervious allow storage of groundwater.
As a result of these favorable conditions for cultivation is an intense exploitation of these lands dedicated to the vine, olive and
cereals as can be read in the classical and medieval texts (Al-Saqundi S-XII).
There are reports of people turdetanas cited by Ptolemy in its Geography, as Spoletinum (some related to Espartinas). With the
Roman domination are known Lauretum the village, the village of Mejina, Tablante, Paterna, Espartina and Villalvilla.
In the Middle Ages all villages belong to the district Hish al-Farach, (San Juan de Aznalfarache) one of the four districts that
were split in the Muslim era Aljarafe (the remaining three were Aznalcázar, Aznalcollar and Solúcar de Albaida). 1248 with the occupation Christian Seville originates the ultimate colonization of the region.
They are important archaeological remains found in Loreto, Chamorro and Sixty, all of the Muslim era. We also find archaeological remains in Tablante, Mejina, Cazalla Almanzor, Paternilla of the Jews and Villalvilla.
During prospecting were not detected or registered archaeological remains in the sector Villa San Juan. It is not unusual not to locate human settlements, because it is morphologically an area of collection and drain water from adjacent farms.
The made Archaeological activity has its origin in the
installation of a Aeolian Park, denominat... more The made Archaeological activity has its origin in the
installation of a Aeolian Park, denominated “P.E. Majal Alto”, by him organization GAMESA ENERGIA S.A. in the municipal terms of the Puebla de Guzmán, Alosno and the Almendro (Huelva).
We began the works of prospection day 14 of April of 2005, such finalizing day 18 of April, once obtained the pertinent permissions of the competent administration. From the patrimonial point of view, the works of installation of this Aeolian Park did not affect any archaeological deposit, since structures have not been detected material archaeological nor that confirm cultural presence some.
All the inspected territory has been put under an intense activity of operation, consisting of the preparation of plateaus and after the plantation of eucalyptuses and oaks. It has created a landscape intensely altered by the human action, little respectful with the naturalambience of the surroundings and with the possible presence of elements of the cultural patrimony.
XELB. Actas del 8º Encontro de Arqueologia do Algarve
We present the results obtained from the use of laser-scanning technology to a funerary structure... more We present the results obtained from the use of laser-scanning technology to a funerary structure type artificial cave. The use of this technique regardless of its application in science, is a tool for dissemination and preservation of the highest order.
Actas del VI Encuentro de Arqueología del Suroeste, 2014
Ideology is established as one of the fundamental elements of the social relations between groups... more Ideology is established as one of the fundamental elements of the social relations between groups. It needs, as a unifying axis of the human collective, the development of a complex apparatus to highlight.
Thus, in the communities of the third millennium BC are instituted rituals and symbolic activities that we can trace through the archaeological record. One of the most recognizable expressions of ideology for these social formations is the production of idols (ideological products) determined from power as an instrument of social control and intermediary between groups (rules) with equal socio-economic development. Therefore, we are able to make an approach to territorial boundaries based on the dispersion and distribution of these ideological products. In this paper we show the most recent findings of such objects in Valencia de la Concepción to contribute to secure the recognition of this Chalcolithic site as a power center in the Lower Guadalquivir Valley.
XELB. Actas del 8º Encontro de Arqueologia do Algarve
This paper presents the results of the study of animal remains recovered from the excavation in t... more This paper presents the results of the study of animal remains recovered from the excavation in the plain of the Cave of the Covachos (Almaden de la Plata, Sevilla). From it follows a holding priority of domestic species without affecting the wildlife. The sample shows a high degree of fragmentation and splintering that has not helped identification.
La ideología constituye una componente esencial en las relaciones sociales bien bajo la forma de... more La ideología constituye una componente esencial en las relaciones sociales bien bajo la forma de alienación, bien en calidad de estrategia de control que unos grupos sociales ejercen sobre otros. Para este fin, la ideología precisa de fisicalización, de representaciones tangibles en las que se reconozca el poder. Durante el IV y III milenio a.n.e. y, en el Bajo Guadalquivir, asistimos a la eclosión de manifestaciones idolátricas que nos informan de un determinado modelo de organización social, donde los rasgos que definen al estado prístino se conforman y desarrollan sobre un amplio territorio dominado desde un centro de poder: Valencina de la Concepción.
Se realiza una lectura social de las expresiones ideológicas de las comunidades del III milenio a.n.e. a través de los productos ideológicos que como tales nos pueden ofrecer luz a cerca del uso que estas formaciones sociales hacían de ellos, concretamente un sector de la misma representado por una clase dominante que busca la consolidación de su posición frente al control de los recursos y de la fuerza de trabajo favoreciendo la creación de excedentes y, también, las formas de incidencia bajo procesos de alienación de la clase desposeída tanto de recursos privilegiados, como en algunos casos, del derecho a participación en rituales funerarios compartidos por los miembros socialmente reconocidos.
Se intenta comprender los cambios que se producen en las manifestaciones superestructurales de las formaciones sociales cuando son sometidas a transformaciones en el seno de sus modos de producción con consecuencias inevitables en las relaciones sociales, en el sentido que estos productos ideológicos se dirigen a la justificación del poder actuando como instrumentos de coacción y simultáneamente, convirtiéndose en elementos de confrontación intrasocial e intersocial o, por el contrario, refrendo de relaciones pacíficas de vecindad respecto a otras formaciones sociales de igual o semejante desarrollo de sus fuerzas productivas, en cuya cúspide se localiza un grupo diferenciado y segregado de la producción directa de los bienes primarios que asumirían la gestión y dirección de la explotación de los recursos y de los excedentes destinados al acaparamiento y retención, a la redistribución y el intercambio.
Para contextualizar estas manifestaciones ideológicas en un contexto territorial en el que se enmarcan y bajo cuya potestad se encuentra el centro de poder de Valencina de la Concepción, se analizan las redes de control ideológico que se establecen intentando conocer su génesis y su afianzamiento estratégico; así como su vinculación a territorios o espacios de apropiación y explotación de recursos específicos.
En la necrópolis de Valencina (III milenio a.n.e.) se han excavado hasta la fecha más de 120 ente... more En la necrópolis de Valencina (III milenio a.n.e.) se han excavado hasta la fecha más de 120 enterramientos de muy diversa índole: grandes tholoi con túmulo, tumbas de cámara y corredor de fábrica y tamaño variado, fosas simples y hasta reutilizaciones de estructuras no funerarias como silos, fosos, etc.
Al margen de estos enterramientos conocidos, dos recientes trabajos de prospección geofísica en el entorno de los dólmenes de La Pastora y Montelirio han sacado a la luz lo que podrían ser varias decenas más de posibles enterramientos, algunos de ellos de entidad considerable.
Ante este panorama nos planteamos en esta ocasión profundizar sobre la existencia de un modelo de organización espacial de la necrópolis, que atiende a aspectos tipológicos, formales y de contenido, y que son el reflejo de una sociedad profundamente jerarquizada cuyo grado de complejidad es capaz de justificar y construir un espacio funerario donde su estructura socio-económica quede expresada.
Para la consecución de este fin hemos diseñado una estrategia que pasa por la construcción de un Sistema de Información Geográfica en donde toda la información de las estructuras de enterramiento, tanto a nivel cartográfico como alfanumérico, se ha registrado para poder realizar consultas complejas a los datos y realizar geoprocesamiento con las geometrías de cara a dilucidar ciertos aspectos espaciales.
El estudio incluye la elaboración de algunos Índices Geoestadísticos para corroborar los resultados obtenidos del análisis y explotación de los datos almacenados en la Base de Datos de nuestro Sistema.
Durante el III milenio asistimos a la génesis de la sociedad clasista inicial en el SW peninsul... more Durante el III milenio asistimos a la génesis de la sociedad clasista inicial en el SW peninsular, cuyas condiciones antecedentes o preparatorias las encontramos ya en el IV milenio.
Las posibilidades que ofrece el incremento de la producción, unido al aumento de la disponibilidad de fuerza de trabajo tiene como consecuencia directa la eclosión de nuevos asentamientos, lo que favorece ya de forma claramente dirigida y planificada el acceso a una mayor gama de productos cuyas fuentes de aprovisionamiento se encuentran en un vasto territorio.
Este acceso en el marco político de la sociedad clasista inicial es dirigida y planificada, configurándose una trama de asentamientos jerarquizados en la que cada establecimiento cumple unas funciones de producción determinadas derivadas de la división social del trabajo a nivel territorial
Con este trabajo se pretende una aproximación a las prácticas alimenticias desarrolladas y al mod... more Con este trabajo se pretende una aproximación a las prácticas alimenticias desarrolladas y al modelo socioeconómico en general desarrollado por estas formaciones sociales. Del conjunto de restos de fauna recuperados (700), de los cuales 351 han posibilitado la determinación de especie. Estos restos óseos corresponden a los desechos resultantes del consumo, siendo las especies representadas más recurrentes oveja/cabra, cerdo/jabalí, vaca, perro, conejo y ciervo. A los que habría que añadir gato montés y erizo. En cuanto a la industria ósea hay que destacar dos fragmentos de elementos apuntados (punzones), así como otro punzón realizado sobre tibia de oveja y un colgante realizado sobre un colmillo de jabalí
La representaciones figurativas de animales que realizan los colectivos sociales del III milenio ... more La representaciones figurativas de animales que realizan los colectivos sociales del III milenio a.n.e. forman parte de una concepción simbólica del mundo que vincula las actividades productivas y cotidianas con la esfera de lo simbólico, actuando como recurso de sustentación de las élites. Este tipo de hallazgos suelen aparecer en contextos funerarios. No obstante, en algunos casos también se constatan en ambientes domésticos y/o productivos. En el asentamiento de Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla) encontramos diferentes representaciones de animales, sobre todo, en estructuras funerarias pues, hasta el momento, y después de más de 120 intervenciones arqueológicas (Mejías, 2013) sólo disponemos de una representación figurativa zoomórfica en ambiente doméstico. A partir de las dataciones de carbono C14 efectuadas, podemos establecer una horquilla cronológica que nos sitúa entre 2900-2400 a.n.e. Estas manifestaciones artísticas se manufacturan sobre materias primas diversas; desde materiales exóticos, como el marfil u otros más accesibles como la arcilla. En Valencina, dos son las localizaciones de estos elementos: Montelirio (dolmen y PP4) del sector de necrópolis y C/ Trabajadores del área habitacional/productiva.
"En este póster se presentan los enterramientos en Cuevas Artificiales documentados hasta la fech... more "En este póster se presentan los enterramientos en Cuevas Artificiales documentados hasta la fecha en el yacimiento de Valencina (Sevilla): c/ Dinamarca 3-5, El Algarrobillo y La Huera.
Se trata de enterramientos de iguales características que los que vienen apareciendo a lo largo de todo el Valle del Guadalquivir, pero que en esta ocasión coexisten en la misma necrópolis con otras tipologías de tumbas del III milenio a.n.e. como son los grandes dólmenes bajo túmulo y los tholoi.
This poster presents the artificial caves burials documented to date in the site of Valencina (Sevilla): c / Dinamarca 3-5, El Algarrobillo and La Huera.
These burials, with the same characteristics as those who are appearing all over the Guadalquivir Valley, coexist in the same necropolis with other types of tombs of the third millennium BC such as large dolmens under mound and tholoi."
VII Encuentro de Arqueología del Suroeste Peninsular, 2013
El Cerro de los Covachos se localiza en el término municipal de Almadén de la Plata, en la Sierra... more El Cerro de los Covachos se localiza en el término municipal de Almadén de la Plata, en la Sierra Norte de la Provincia de Sevilla, al SW de la Península Ibérica. En él se encuentra la conocida cono Cueva de los Covachos. En ella, se ha identificado un conjunto destacado de representaciones rupestres (grabados y pinturas) que hacen de esta cueva la primera de la provincia de Sevilla con este tipo de manifestaciones.
En 2009 se realizó una excavación de urgencia en el llano que se extiende ante esta cavidad. Durante esta intervención se recuperó un importante volumen de manufacturas cerámicas cuyas tipologías son coincidentes con aquellas que se registraron durante los trabajos en el interior de la cueva. Apuntan a recipientes abiertos y platos de bordes engrosados, recurrentes en el Calcolítico, y otras morfologías hemisféricas y semiesféricas, además de los bordes almendrados, y una abrumadora presencia de crecientes.
Respecto a los materiales líticos asistimos a un predominio de la industria microlaminarfrente a morfologías de mayores dimensiones. Disponemos también de dos ejemplares de puntas de flecha, una de ellas elaborada en cristal de roca.
Dentro de este contexto destaca un “ídolo tolva” elaborado sobre alabastro que presentamos en esta aportación. Resulta relevante por tratarse de uno de los pocos productos ideológicos elaborados en este material documentados hasta el momento. El registro arqueológico apunta a un momento de ocupación durante la transición del IV-III milenio a.n.e
III Encontro de Arqueología do Sudoeste. Aljustrel, Oct 2006
Supone el reconocimiento de mecanismos de coerción y coacción ideológica integrados en una estrat... more Supone el reconocimiento de mecanismos de coerción y coacción ideológica integrados en una estrategia política de segregación y fijación de élites durante el III milenio a.n.e., donde los “Ídolos”, al igual que otras manifestaciones superestructurales, desempeñan una función legitimadora del Status y de las relaciones de dependencia generadas desde el Centro de Poder y manifestadas en el territorio del Bajo Guadalquivir siendo Valencina de La Concepción el centro político articulador.
La intervención arqueológica en las canteras romanas de El Cerro de los Covachos en Almadén de l... more La intervención arqueológica en las canteras romanas de El Cerro de los Covachos en Almadén de la Plata se ha realizado a iniciativa de la corporación municipal con la intención de generar un recurso patrimonial que favorezca la divulgación y el conocimiento general del Patrimonio Histórico de esta localidad. El frente de cantera intervenido presenta diferentes evidencias del proceso extractivo de los bloques de mármol, a saber: marcas de cantería, negativos de extracción, preformas y formas (sillares).
La posterior intervención sobre el local ha consistido en la adecuación del entorno para facilitar las visitas y la colocación de cartelería informativa sobre el contexto histórico de la cantera y las técnicas extractivas empleadas.
Presentamos una experiencia de aplicación de la tecnología tridimensional a la restitución con fi... more Presentamos una experiencia de aplicación de la tecnología tridimensional a la restitución con fines científicos y divulgativos de una sepultura colectiva en cueva artificial del III milenio a.n.e. localizada en Valencina de la Concepción. Se ha pretendido, mediante barrido con láser escáner de última generación (Leica C-10), documentar pormenorizadamente la cámara principal de esta estructura funeraria compleja constituida por un corredor, cámara central y tres sub-cámaras.
Presentamos a continuación el hallazgo de un “ídolo” cilindro oculado recuperado de la estructura... more Presentamos a continuación el hallazgo de un “ídolo” cilindro oculado recuperado de la estructura 19 que formaría parte de la panoplia de representaciones ideológicas propias de los grupos sociales del Calcolítico del SW peninsular con sus diferentes particularidades territoriales funcionando, en parte, como elementos distintivos de las élites políticas y/o religiosas de cada territorio.
A su vez, pretendemos ofrecer una aproximación a la distribución espacial de este tipo de producto ideológico dentro del yacimiento Calcolítico de Valencina de la Concepción, entendido este como área de poblado y área de necrópolis; espacio funerario que también se extiende por el término municipal de la actual Castilleja de Guzmán.
Se presenta el estudio de la fauna recuperada en el tholos de Montelirio, perteneciente al yacimi... more Se presenta el estudio de la fauna recuperada en el tholos de Montelirio, perteneciente al yacimiento calcolítico de Valencina-Castilleja de Guzmán (Sevilla). La fauna pertenece a depósitos calcolíticos y a depósitos alterados en época romana. En este último caso, se observa como se ha producido una mezcla de los materiales provenientes de las cámaras funerarias. El rasgo que lo define por encima de todo es la escasa presencia de fauna en esta estructura funeraria, situación recurrente en gran parte de los contenedores funerarios localizados en este yacimiento. Se ha documentado la presencia de ovicaprino, Bos taurus, Sus sp., Orictolagus cuniculus, Bufo bufo, Struthio camelus, malacofauna terrestre y dentro de la marina, Ruditapes decussatus. La presencia más significativa corresponde al colmillo de elefante (Elephas antiquus) y a la magnífica colección de productos elaborados en marfil cuya procedencia es de elefante africano de estepa (Loxodonta africana africana).
This paper presents the results of the zooarchaeological analysis of the recovered faunal remains at tholos de Montelirio from the archaeological site of Valencina de la Concepción-Castilleja de Guzmán (Seville). The faunal remains belong to the chalcolithic deposits but also to levels disturbed in Roman times. The main characteristic of this assemblage is the very few animal remains found at this funerary structure. However, the following species have been documented: ovicaprids, Bos taurus, Sus sp., Orictolagus cuniculus, Bufo bufo, Struthio camelus, terrestrial shells and marine shells such as Ruditapes decussatus. The most interesting findings are the elephant tusk (Elephas antiquus) and the magnificent collection of elaborate ivory products of steppe african elephant (Loxodonta africana africana).
La fauna objeto del presente estudio corresponde al material óseo recuperado durante las excavaci... more La fauna objeto del presente estudio corresponde al material óseo recuperado durante las excavaciones en el yacimiento de Monte Branco 2 (Juromenha, Alandroal, Portugal). Este yacimiento comprende una villa romana y sus instalaciones balnearias.
Parte III. El registro funerario. Los ajuares. La Necrópolis de Época Tartésica de la Angorrilla. Alcalá del Río. Sevilla: 535-556. Universidad de Sevilla., 2014
En Alcalá del Río (Sevilla) se encuentra el poblado y necrópolis de época tartésica denominado An... more En Alcalá del Río (Sevilla) se encuentra el poblado y necrópolis de época tartésica denominado Angorrilla. El tercer nivel de análisis se ocupa de la investigación específica de cada sepultura y de los distintos elementos depositados en su interior, principalmente de los ajuares. Estos estudios se complementan con una serie de análisis sobre antropología física y paleopatología, paleodieta, ADN, antracología, etc., cuyos resultados posibilitan la reconstrucción de los ritos funerarios y un acercamiento a la caracterización de la población enterrada, su hábitat y otros aspectos relativos a sus estrategias de explotación y adaptación al medio.
As comunidades agropastoris na margem esquerda do Guadiana.2ª metade do IV aos inícios do II milénio AC. Memórias d´Odiana. 2ª Série. Estudos Arqueológicos do Alqueva, 2013
Gadir y el Círculo del Estrecho Revisados. Propuestas de la Arqueología desde un Enfoque Social. Universidad de Cádiz, 2011
El estado, en sus primeras manifestaciones en el Suroeste de la Península Ibérica como modelo de ... more El estado, en sus primeras manifestaciones en el Suroeste de la Península Ibérica como modelo de organización social compleja, surge durante la transición del IV al III milenio a.n.e. como consecuencia de la crisis de la sociedad tribal y de las relaciones sociales de parentesco. En este capítulo se analizan las condiciones de aparición de estas primeras formas prístinas estatales en el Bajo Guadalquivir proporcionando una argumentación material basada en los descubrimientos arqueológicos de la zona en los últimos años.
Activity patterns at large prehistoric sites are often difficult to interpret, as they frequently... more Activity patterns at large prehistoric sites are often difficult to interpret, as they frequently combine productive, domestic and funerary components. Valencina, the largest of the Copper Age mega-sites in Iberia, has proved particularly challenging in this regard. Macrolithic tool assemblages have been generally neglected in these debates but can provide specific insight into the nature and patterning of activities. In this study, 185 grinding tools from seven separate excavations across this 450 ha mega-site were subjected to multiple lines of analysis including quantification, morphology, raw material, use-wear and depositional context. A surprising feature of this assemblage is the high degree of fragmentation, with more than half of the items representing less than 25% of the original artefact and only a small minority of them (< 10%) complete. The absence of intact quernstones is particularly striking. The results indicate a ritualization of deposition at Valencina, and throw new light on the interpretation of this complex site. Furthermore, they emphasize the central role that grinding technology should play in future discussion of European prehistoric mega-sites.
Journal of World Prehistory 31 (2), 179–313., 2018
"The great site of Valencina de la Concepción-Castilleja de Guzmán, near Seville in the lower Gua... 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."
The results of the first phase of the General Research Project are presented in which various arc... more The results of the first phase of the General Research Project are presented in which various archaeological activities have been carried out: geophysical prospecting by magnetometry, remote sensing prospecting by thermal imaging, radiocarbon and thermoluminescence dating, and analysis of ceramic materials and fauna. This preliminary results have served to consolidate our hypothesis that Valencina is a settlement with ditches of the III millennium A.N.E. which is configured as a permanent habitat. The contribution made with the geophysical prospecting about the framework and sequence of the possible enclosures is particularly noteworthy.
Se presentan los resultados de la primera anualidad del Proyecto General de Investigación en el que se han llevado a cabo diversas actividades arqueológicas: prospección geofísica por magnetometría, prospección por teledetección mediante imágenes térmicas, dataciones radiocarbónicas y por termoluminiscencia, y análisis de materiales cerámicos y de fauna. Todo ello ha servido para consolidar la hipótesis que manejamos sobre que Valencina es un asentamiento con fosos del III milenio A.N.E. que se configura como un hábitat estable. Es destacable especialemente la contribución aportada con la prospección geofísica acerca del entramado y secuencia de los posibles recintos de fosos del asentamiento.
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most important sites in the Iberian Prehistory, not only for its great tombs, but also due to its magnitude. Unlike utilitarian vessels, frequent in the archaeological record, the presence of bell beaker ceramics is relatively scarce and is reduced to small fragments from superficial contexts or early archaeological excavations. However, recent archaeological work in the upper part of the settlement has provided new information and additional readings on these productions. The presence of a large number of bell beaker sherds found in association with prestige goods gave us the possibility to evaluate the manufacturing processes and explore their symbolic meaning, proposing alternative interpretations
about the role of these items as vehicles for the legitimation of power.
El asentamiento de Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla, España) es un referente en la arqueología prehistórica peninsular, no sólo por sus grandes tumbas, sino también por su gran magnitud. A pesar de las innumerables evidencias sólo recientemente la componente cerámica ha sido objeto de un amplio estudio que ha permitido proponer un primer modelo de organización técnica y social de la producción alfarera. Por
el contrario, la presencia de cerámica campaniforme es relativamente escasa y se reduce a pequeños fragmentos procedentes de contextos superficiales o de excavaciones arqueológicas antiguas. No obstante, trabajos arqueológicos recientes en el área habitacional del asentamiento ubicada en la parte más alta del asentamiento han aportado novedosas informaciones y una lectura adicional sobre estas producciones. La presencia de un gran número de registros campaniformes abría la posibilidad de evaluar las características de
la materias primas utilizadas y de los procesos de manufactura, explorar su significado simbólico y plantear propuestas alternativas de interpretación sobre el papel de estas producciones cerámicas como vehículos de legitimación de poder.
Concerning the treatment of the bodies, the most widespread ritual is the hyperflexion of both lower and upper limbs, probably indicating the use of shrouds or bandages. Some individuals seem to share morphological features that might link them to certain family groups; DNA studies were carried out to test this observation. This type of funerary structure is definitely a novelty in the Copper Age site Valencina de la Concepción.
Son de destacar los restos arqueológicos localizados en Loreto, Chamorro y la Sesenta de época musulmana. Así como los restos encontrados en Tablante, Mejina, Cazalla Almanzor, Paternilla de los Judios y Villalvilla.
A lo largo de prospección realizada no se detectaron restos arqueológicos de importancia en esta zona.
We present a " bowling pin " found in the Llano de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevi-lla). This idolatrous representation is part of the extensive typological variability of ideological products IV and III millennia BC, closely related to the physical shape of the dominant ideology. The ideological product Los Covachos stresses in the SW peninsular, the material on which support is made, the only copy in this region manufactured in alabaster, raw material is found recurrently in eastern Andalusia, more specifically in the necropolis of Los Millares.
The excavation at the Llano de la Cueva de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla) has provided interesting information about the human occupation of space outside the Cave of the Covachos during the transition between the IV‑III millennium BC Here we present the preliminary results of the study of lithic materials from a techno‑cultural.
The site of the third millennium a.n.e. of Valencina de la Concepción in Sevilla has become in recent years a benchmark for archaeological research on the recent prehistory due to the significant increase of excavations and research and scientific literature that has been generated. A major turning point came with the Congress to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the discovery of La Cueva de
la Pastora held in 2011 which helped to unify a large part of the information available and open new debates about the complexity of the site in different fields of scientific knowledge. Its categorization as a political entity on a wide territory, the variability of the burials, the ability to grab prestige goods, spatial organization, among others are reasons recently revived debates. Therefore, we believe that discussion of the sectoral division of deposit, initiated by Prof. Oswaldo Arteaga and Prof.. Rosario Cruz-Auñón in the 90s of last century, has great interest to understand the degree of social complexity and the social relations of production established communities in the Valley of the Guadalquivir
throughout the III millennium BC.
Last years, there have been detected in Valencina a several funerary structures of the type artificial sdcave. These findings have opened a new perspective into the diversified funerary panorama that is stated in this site, so much in the configuration of the same one, conforming as authentic necropolis of artificial caves, as in the geographical emplacement that they occupy so much into the own site as to the regional level."
the National Road 431 Sevilla-Huelva. In this territory were conducted archeological prospecting work by the method of “transects.”
The Sector located in the province of Seville, geologically falls in the domain of depression Guadalquivir on the plateau of Aljarafe, ravine between the rivers Guadiamar and Guadalquivir. They are extremely soft soil fertility trained in a period of increased
rainfall and temperature, very porous, on the marl impervious allow storage of groundwater.
As a result of these favorable conditions for cultivation is an intense exploitation of these lands dedicated to the vine, olive and
cereals as can be read in the classical and medieval texts (Al-Saqundi S-XII).
There are reports of people turdetanas cited by Ptolemy in its Geography, as Spoletinum (some related to Espartinas). With the
Roman domination are known Lauretum the village, the village of Mejina, Tablante, Paterna, Espartina and Villalvilla.
In the Middle Ages all villages belong to the district Hish al-Farach, (San Juan de Aznalfarache) one of the four districts that
were split in the Muslim era Aljarafe (the remaining three were Aznalcázar, Aznalcollar and Solúcar de Albaida). 1248 with the occupation Christian Seville originates the ultimate colonization of the region.
They are important archaeological remains found in Loreto, Chamorro and Sixty, all of the Muslim era. We also find archaeological remains in Tablante, Mejina, Cazalla Almanzor, Paternilla of the Jews and Villalvilla.
During prospecting were not detected or registered archaeological remains in the sector Villa San Juan. It is not unusual not to locate human settlements, because it is morphologically an area of collection and drain water from adjacent farms.
installation of a Aeolian Park, denominated “P.E. Majal Alto”, by him organization GAMESA ENERGIA S.A. in the municipal terms of the Puebla de Guzmán, Alosno and the Almendro (Huelva).
We began the works of prospection day 14 of April of 2005, such finalizing day 18 of April, once obtained the pertinent permissions of the competent administration. From the patrimonial point of view, the works of installation of this Aeolian Park did not affect any archaeological deposit, since structures have not been detected material archaeological nor that confirm cultural presence some.
All the inspected territory has been put under an intense activity of operation, consisting of the preparation of plateaus and after the plantation of eucalyptuses and oaks. It has created a landscape intensely altered by the human action, little respectful with the naturalambience of the surroundings and with the possible presence of elements of the cultural patrimony.
Thus, in the communities of the third millennium BC are instituted rituals and symbolic activities that we can trace through the archaeological record. One of the most recognizable expressions of ideology for these social formations is the production of idols (ideological products) determined from power as an instrument of social control and intermediary between groups (rules) with equal socio-economic development. Therefore, we are able to make an approach to territorial boundaries based on the dispersion and distribution of these ideological products. In this paper we show the most recent findings of such objects in Valencia de la Concepción to contribute to secure the recognition of this Chalcolithic site as a power center in the Lower Guadalquivir Valley.
most important sites in the Iberian Prehistory, not only for its great tombs, but also due to its magnitude. Unlike utilitarian vessels, frequent in the archaeological record, the presence of bell beaker ceramics is relatively scarce and is reduced to small fragments from superficial contexts or early archaeological excavations. However, recent archaeological work in the upper part of the settlement has provided new information and additional readings on these productions. The presence of a large number of bell beaker sherds found in association with prestige goods gave us the possibility to evaluate the manufacturing processes and explore their symbolic meaning, proposing alternative interpretations
about the role of these items as vehicles for the legitimation of power.
El asentamiento de Valencina de la Concepción (Sevilla, España) es un referente en la arqueología prehistórica peninsular, no sólo por sus grandes tumbas, sino también por su gran magnitud. A pesar de las innumerables evidencias sólo recientemente la componente cerámica ha sido objeto de un amplio estudio que ha permitido proponer un primer modelo de organización técnica y social de la producción alfarera. Por
el contrario, la presencia de cerámica campaniforme es relativamente escasa y se reduce a pequeños fragmentos procedentes de contextos superficiales o de excavaciones arqueológicas antiguas. No obstante, trabajos arqueológicos recientes en el área habitacional del asentamiento ubicada en la parte más alta del asentamiento han aportado novedosas informaciones y una lectura adicional sobre estas producciones. La presencia de un gran número de registros campaniformes abría la posibilidad de evaluar las características de
la materias primas utilizadas y de los procesos de manufactura, explorar su significado simbólico y plantear propuestas alternativas de interpretación sobre el papel de estas producciones cerámicas como vehículos de legitimación de poder.
Concerning the treatment of the bodies, the most widespread ritual is the hyperflexion of both lower and upper limbs, probably indicating the use of shrouds or bandages. Some individuals seem to share morphological features that might link them to certain family groups; DNA studies were carried out to test this observation. This type of funerary structure is definitely a novelty in the Copper Age site Valencina de la Concepción.
Son de destacar los restos arqueológicos localizados en Loreto, Chamorro y la Sesenta de época musulmana. Así como los restos encontrados en Tablante, Mejina, Cazalla Almanzor, Paternilla de los Judios y Villalvilla.
A lo largo de prospección realizada no se detectaron restos arqueológicos de importancia en esta zona.
We present a " bowling pin " found in the Llano de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevi-lla). This idolatrous representation is part of the extensive typological variability of ideological products IV and III millennia BC, closely related to the physical shape of the dominant ideology. The ideological product Los Covachos stresses in the SW peninsular, the material on which support is made, the only copy in this region manufactured in alabaster, raw material is found recurrently in eastern Andalusia, more specifically in the necropolis of Los Millares.
The excavation at the Llano de la Cueva de los Covachos (Almadén de la Plata, Sevilla) has provided interesting information about the human occupation of space outside the Cave of the Covachos during the transition between the IV‑III millennium BC Here we present the preliminary results of the study of lithic materials from a techno‑cultural.
The site of the third millennium a.n.e. of Valencina de la Concepción in Sevilla has become in recent years a benchmark for archaeological research on the recent prehistory due to the significant increase of excavations and research and scientific literature that has been generated. A major turning point came with the Congress to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the discovery of La Cueva de
la Pastora held in 2011 which helped to unify a large part of the information available and open new debates about the complexity of the site in different fields of scientific knowledge. Its categorization as a political entity on a wide territory, the variability of the burials, the ability to grab prestige goods, spatial organization, among others are reasons recently revived debates. Therefore, we believe that discussion of the sectoral division of deposit, initiated by Prof. Oswaldo Arteaga and Prof.. Rosario Cruz-Auñón in the 90s of last century, has great interest to understand the degree of social complexity and the social relations of production established communities in the Valley of the Guadalquivir
throughout the III millennium BC.
Last years, there have been detected in Valencina a several funerary structures of the type artificial sdcave. These findings have opened a new perspective into the diversified funerary panorama that is stated in this site, so much in the configuration of the same one, conforming as authentic necropolis of artificial caves, as in the geographical emplacement that they occupy so much into the own site as to the regional level."
the National Road 431 Sevilla-Huelva. In this territory were conducted archeological prospecting work by the method of “transects.”
The Sector located in the province of Seville, geologically falls in the domain of depression Guadalquivir on the plateau of Aljarafe, ravine between the rivers Guadiamar and Guadalquivir. They are extremely soft soil fertility trained in a period of increased
rainfall and temperature, very porous, on the marl impervious allow storage of groundwater.
As a result of these favorable conditions for cultivation is an intense exploitation of these lands dedicated to the vine, olive and
cereals as can be read in the classical and medieval texts (Al-Saqundi S-XII).
There are reports of people turdetanas cited by Ptolemy in its Geography, as Spoletinum (some related to Espartinas). With the
Roman domination are known Lauretum the village, the village of Mejina, Tablante, Paterna, Espartina and Villalvilla.
In the Middle Ages all villages belong to the district Hish al-Farach, (San Juan de Aznalfarache) one of the four districts that
were split in the Muslim era Aljarafe (the remaining three were Aznalcázar, Aznalcollar and Solúcar de Albaida). 1248 with the occupation Christian Seville originates the ultimate colonization of the region.
They are important archaeological remains found in Loreto, Chamorro and Sixty, all of the Muslim era. We also find archaeological remains in Tablante, Mejina, Cazalla Almanzor, Paternilla of the Jews and Villalvilla.
During prospecting were not detected or registered archaeological remains in the sector Villa San Juan. It is not unusual not to locate human settlements, because it is morphologically an area of collection and drain water from adjacent farms.
installation of a Aeolian Park, denominated “P.E. Majal Alto”, by him organization GAMESA ENERGIA S.A. in the municipal terms of the Puebla de Guzmán, Alosno and the Almendro (Huelva).
We began the works of prospection day 14 of April of 2005, such finalizing day 18 of April, once obtained the pertinent permissions of the competent administration. From the patrimonial point of view, the works of installation of this Aeolian Park did not affect any archaeological deposit, since structures have not been detected material archaeological nor that confirm cultural presence some.
All the inspected territory has been put under an intense activity of operation, consisting of the preparation of plateaus and after the plantation of eucalyptuses and oaks. It has created a landscape intensely altered by the human action, little respectful with the naturalambience of the surroundings and with the possible presence of elements of the cultural patrimony.
Thus, in the communities of the third millennium BC are instituted rituals and symbolic activities that we can trace through the archaeological record. One of the most recognizable expressions of ideology for these social formations is the production of idols (ideological products) determined from power as an instrument of social control and intermediary between groups (rules) with equal socio-economic development. Therefore, we are able to make an approach to territorial boundaries based on the dispersion and distribution of these ideological products. In this paper we show the most recent findings of such objects in Valencia de la Concepción to contribute to secure the recognition of this Chalcolithic site as a power center in the Lower Guadalquivir Valley.
Se realiza una lectura social de las expresiones ideológicas de las comunidades del III milenio a.n.e. a través de los productos ideológicos que como tales nos pueden ofrecer luz a cerca del uso que estas formaciones sociales hacían de ellos, concretamente un sector de la misma representado por una clase dominante que busca la consolidación de su posición frente al control de los recursos y de la fuerza de trabajo favoreciendo la creación de excedentes y, también, las formas de incidencia bajo procesos de alienación de la clase desposeída tanto de recursos privilegiados, como en algunos casos, del derecho a participación en rituales funerarios compartidos por los miembros socialmente reconocidos.
Se intenta comprender los cambios que se producen en las manifestaciones superestructurales de las formaciones sociales cuando son sometidas a transformaciones en el seno de sus modos de producción con consecuencias inevitables en las relaciones sociales, en el sentido que estos productos ideológicos se dirigen a la justificación del poder actuando como instrumentos de coacción y simultáneamente, convirtiéndose en elementos de confrontación intrasocial e intersocial o, por el contrario, refrendo de relaciones pacíficas de vecindad respecto a otras formaciones sociales de igual o semejante desarrollo de sus fuerzas productivas, en cuya cúspide se localiza un grupo diferenciado y segregado de la producción directa de los bienes primarios que asumirían la gestión y dirección de la explotación de los recursos y de los excedentes destinados al acaparamiento y retención, a la redistribución y el intercambio.
Para contextualizar estas manifestaciones ideológicas en un contexto territorial en el que se enmarcan y bajo cuya potestad se encuentra el centro de poder de Valencina de la Concepción, se analizan las redes de control ideológico que se establecen intentando conocer su génesis y su afianzamiento estratégico; así como su vinculación a territorios o espacios de apropiación y explotación de recursos específicos.
Al margen de estos enterramientos conocidos, dos recientes trabajos de prospección geofísica en el entorno de los dólmenes de La Pastora y Montelirio han sacado a la luz lo que podrían ser varias decenas más de posibles enterramientos, algunos de ellos de entidad considerable.
Ante este panorama nos planteamos en esta ocasión profundizar sobre la existencia de un modelo de organización espacial de la necrópolis, que atiende a aspectos tipológicos, formales y de contenido, y que son el reflejo de una sociedad profundamente jerarquizada cuyo grado de complejidad es capaz de justificar y construir un espacio funerario donde su estructura socio-económica quede expresada.
Para la consecución de este fin hemos diseñado una estrategia que pasa por la construcción de un Sistema de Información Geográfica en donde toda la información de las estructuras de enterramiento, tanto a nivel cartográfico como alfanumérico, se ha registrado para poder realizar consultas complejas a los datos y realizar geoprocesamiento con las geometrías de cara a dilucidar ciertos aspectos espaciales.
El estudio incluye la elaboración de algunos Índices Geoestadísticos para corroborar los resultados obtenidos del análisis y explotación de los datos almacenados en la Base de Datos de nuestro Sistema.
Las posibilidades que ofrece el incremento de la producción, unido al aumento de la disponibilidad de fuerza de trabajo tiene como consecuencia directa la eclosión de nuevos asentamientos, lo que favorece ya de forma claramente dirigida y planificada el acceso a una mayor gama de productos cuyas fuentes de aprovisionamiento se encuentran en un vasto territorio.
Este acceso en el marco político de la sociedad clasista inicial es dirigida y planificada, configurándose una trama de asentamientos jerarquizados en la que cada establecimiento cumple unas funciones de producción determinadas derivadas de la división social del trabajo a nivel territorial
Estos restos óseos corresponden a los desechos resultantes del consumo, siendo las especies representadas más recurrentes oveja/cabra, cerdo/jabalí, vaca, perro, conejo y ciervo. A los que habría que añadir gato montés y erizo.
En cuanto a la industria ósea hay que destacar dos fragmentos de elementos apuntados (punzones), así como otro punzón realizado sobre tibia de oveja y un colgante realizado sobre un colmillo de jabalí
Se trata de enterramientos de iguales características que los que vienen apareciendo a lo largo de todo el Valle del Guadalquivir, pero que en esta ocasión coexisten en la misma necrópolis con otras tipologías de tumbas del III milenio a.n.e. como son los grandes dólmenes bajo túmulo y los tholoi.
This poster presents the artificial caves burials documented to date in the site of Valencina (Sevilla): c / Dinamarca 3-5, El Algarrobillo and La Huera.
These burials, with the same characteristics as those who are appearing all over the Guadalquivir Valley, coexist in the same necropolis with other types of tombs of the third millennium BC such as large dolmens under mound and tholoi."
En 2009 se realizó una excavación de urgencia en el llano que se extiende ante esta cavidad. Durante esta intervención se recuperó un importante volumen de manufacturas cerámicas cuyas tipologías son coincidentes con aquellas que se registraron durante los trabajos en el interior de la cueva. Apuntan a recipientes abiertos y platos de bordes engrosados, recurrentes en el Calcolítico, y otras morfologías hemisféricas y semiesféricas, además de los bordes almendrados, y una abrumadora presencia de crecientes.
Respecto a los materiales líticos asistimos a un predominio de la industria microlaminarfrente a morfologías de mayores dimensiones. Disponemos también de dos ejemplares de puntas de flecha, una de ellas elaborada en cristal de roca.
Dentro de este contexto destaca un “ídolo tolva” elaborado sobre alabastro que presentamos en esta aportación. Resulta relevante por tratarse de uno de los pocos productos ideológicos elaborados en este material documentados hasta el momento. El registro arqueológico apunta a un momento de ocupación durante la transición del IV-III milenio a.n.e
La posterior intervención sobre el local ha consistido en la adecuación del entorno para facilitar las visitas y la colocación de cartelería informativa sobre el contexto histórico de la cantera y las técnicas extractivas empleadas.
A su vez, pretendemos ofrecer una aproximación a la distribución espacial de este tipo de producto ideológico dentro del yacimiento Calcolítico de Valencina de la Concepción, entendido este como área de poblado y área de necrópolis; espacio funerario que también se extiende por el término municipal de la actual Castilleja de Guzmán.
presencia de fauna en esta estructura funeraria, situación recurrente en gran parte de los contenedores funerarios localizados en este yacimiento. Se ha documentado la presencia de ovicaprino, Bos taurus, Sus sp., Orictolagus cuniculus, Bufo bufo, Struthio camelus, malacofauna terrestre y dentro de la marina, Ruditapes decussatus. La presencia más significativa corresponde al colmillo de elefante (Elephas antiquus) y a la magnífica colección de productos elaborados en marfil cuya procedencia es de elefante africano de estepa (Loxodonta africana africana).
This paper presents the results of the zooarchaeological analysis of the recovered faunal remains at tholos de Montelirio from the archaeological site of Valencina de la Concepción-Castilleja de Guzmán (Seville). The
faunal remains belong to the chalcolithic deposits but also to levels disturbed in Roman times. The main characteristic of this assemblage is the very few animal remains found at this funerary structure. However,
the following species have been documented: ovicaprids, Bos taurus, Sus sp., Orictolagus cuniculus, Bufo bufo, Struthio camelus, terrestrial shells and marine shells such as Ruditapes decussatus. The most interesting findings are the elephant tusk (Elephas antiquus) and the magnificent collection of elaborate ivory products of steppe african elephant (Loxodonta africana africana).
This preliminary results have served to consolidate our hypothesis that Valencina is a settlement with ditches of the III millennium A.N.E. which is configured as a permanent habitat.
The contribution made with the geophysical prospecting about the framework and sequence of the possible enclosures is particularly
noteworthy.
Se presentan los resultados de la primera anualidad del Proyecto General de Investigación en el que se han llevado a cabo diversas actividades arqueológicas: prospección geofísica por magnetometría, prospección por teledetección mediante imágenes térmicas, dataciones radiocarbónicas y por termoluminiscencia, y análisis de materiales cerámicos y de fauna.
Todo ello ha servido para consolidar la hipótesis que manejamos sobre que Valencina es un asentamiento con fosos del III milenio A.N.E. que se
configura como un hábitat estable.
Es destacable especialemente la contribución aportada con la prospección geofísica acerca del entramado y secuencia de los posibles recintos de fosos del asentamiento.