Lorraine Williamson
A forester has uncovered a necropolis in the province of Málaga, estimated to be over 4,200 years old. The regional Ministry of Culture has confirmed the presence of a dozen megalithic tombs in Colmenar, approximately 20 kilometres from the city of Málaga.
These graves are believed to date back to the Copper Age.
Significance of the Necropolis
The term “necropolis” originates from the Greek words for “city of the dead” and refers to large, ancient burial grounds. Moreover, these sites were typically situated outside city boundaries and served as communal cemeteries. The newly discovered site, named the Megalithic Necropolis of Romeral de Colmenar, was previously uncharted on Málaga’s archaeological maps. Due to its remote location on privately owned farmland, is accessible only by foot. Furthermore, it is obscured by dense vegetation which contributed to its concealment for over a millennia.
Discovery details
José Martín, the mayor of Colmenar, detailed the circumstances of the find: a forester noticed an unusual arrangement of stones, with a prominent headstone and surrounding stones forming an oval configuration. Due to limited visibility, experts suggest that additional graves may lie beneath the surface. The structures are concentrated at the area’s highest elevation and are oriented eastward, a common feature in megalithic burial sites. Furthermore, each tomb comprises small dolmens or rectangular cists designed to house the deceased.
Comparisons to other sites
Measuring approximately two metres in length and just over half a metre in width, the stone tombs provided a confined space for supine burials. Experts date the necropolis to the Copper Age (circa 3200–2200 BCE). Moreover, the Colmenar site bears similarities to other regional sites. This includes the Tholos de El Romeral in Antequera, a megalithic burial mound constructed around 1800 BCE. This tholos, part of the Antequera Dolmens Site, is recognised for its corbelled stone chambers and serves as a significant example of early Bronze Age architecture in southern Europe.
Future plans
The Megalithic Necropolis of Romeral de Colmenar remains in a well-preserved state. Following comprehensive scientific studies to ascertain the site’s full extent, efforts will be made to designate it as a Bien de Interés Cultural (Asset of Cultural Interest). This recognition would underscore Colmenar’s importance as a centre of Copper Age heritage within the province.