A megalithic complex of more than 500 standing stones has been found in southern Spain and could be one of the largest in Europe.
The stones were found on a plot of land in the southern part of Spain's border with Portugal.
The land was supposed to be used for a planation of avocados.
Before granting the permit, the regional authorities requested a survey in order to find out if the site is an archaeological landmark.
"This is the largest and most diverse collection of standing stones in the Iberian peninsula," said Jose Antonio Linares, one of the project's directors.
The oldest standing stones at the La Torre-La Janera site are thought to have been built in the second half of the sixth or fifth millennium BC.
He said that it is a major megalithic site.
Standing stones, dolmens, mounds, coffin-like stone boxes called cists, and various enclosures were found at the site.
In an article published in Trabajos de Prehistoria, the researchers said that standing stones were the most common find.
Between one and three metres was the height of the stone.
One of the most famous megalithic sites in the world is Carnac in northwestern France.
The megalithic elements that were found in one location and how well preserved they were were the most striking thing.
It's not very common to find alignments and dolmens on a single site.
She said that the site's excellent conservativism made it very striking.
The researchers said that most of the menhirs were grouped into 26 alignments and two cromlechs, both located on hilltops with a clear view to the east for sunrises during the summer and winter.
The stones are buried in the ground.
Between this year's campaign and the beginning of next year's, there will be a part of the site that can be visited.
Agence France- Presse.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
