Discovering the Ancient Treasures of the Sierra: Archaeological Sites You Can't Miss
1 El Castañuelo – A Window into Bronze Age Burial Rituals
📍 Location: Aracena
⏳ Era: Bronze Age
El Castañuelo is an exceptional site featuring a necropolis of cists, a type of prehistoric burial structure, a small megalithic tomb built with four vertical stone slabs forming a rectangle, often covered with a flat stone. Originally excavated in 1953, further research by archaeologists revealed two groups of cists and an ancient settlement that was not contemporaneous with the necropolis.
The absence of skeletal remains in these cists suggests they may have been cenotaphs—symbolic graves rather than actual burial sites.
🔎 Did you know?
The site includes another intriguing area known as “El Santuario,” where different archaeological layers indicate a long history of occupation. Some researchers believe this site played a role in the ancient Baeturia Céltica, a Celtic region mentioned by Greco-Roman authors.
2. Carboneras – A Vanished Necropolis
⏳ Era:Late Prehistory
Once home to a group of four cists, Carboneras was an ancient burial site that has unfortunately been destroyed over time. However, evidence from one of the tombs confirmed the presence of human remains, offering a rare glimpse into the burial practices of prehistoric communities in the region.
3. Corteganilla – A Copper Age Megalithic Complex
📍 Location: Cortegana
⏳ Era:Copper Age (2500-1700 BCE)
Corteganilla is an impressive dolmen complex closely linked to the Chalcolithic settlement of Cabezo del Cojo. The site consists of two distinct structures:
- Corteganilla A: A partially destroyed dolmen with a 34-meter-diameter tumulus. The presence of a peristalithic ring (a circle of large stones) suggests an important ceremonial function.
- Corteganilla B: A covered gallery tomb located 250 meters away from Corteganilla A. This structure retains some of its original orthostats—vertical stone slabs used to form the walls of the burial chamber.
🌟 Must-See Feature: The well-preserved entrance passageway, which hints at the impressive architecture of this prehistoric site.
4. The Hermitage of La Coronada – A Blend of History and Devotion
📍 Location: 4 km from the nearest town
⏳ Era: Originally built in the 13th century, reconstructed in 1962
More than just an archaeological site, the Ermita de la Virgen de la Coronada is a historical landmark with deep cultural roots. Built in the 13th century, this hermitage houses a stunning polychrome wooden sculpture of the Virgin, crafted in the 16th century. Over time, the building fell into disrepair, leading to its reconstruction in 1962.
🔎 Fun Fact:
Roman-era remains, including columns and stone blocks, have been found around the hermitage, hinting at an even older settlement beneath its foundations.
A Journey Through Time
The Sierra de Huelva is a treasure trove of history, offering everything from Bronze Age necropolises to medieval sanctuaries. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply curious about the past, these sites are sure to amaze. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and set off to uncover the secrets of the ancient world! ✨