El Zafrín

El Zafrín is a Neolithic settlement on Isla del Congreso featuring remains of dwellings, hearths, and storage areas from prehistoric times. The remains include circular stone structures carved into rock, handmills for grinding grain, and facilities designed for food preservation.

The settlement dates to the second half of the 5th millennium BC and was first systematically studied in the early 2000s through archaeological excavation. Evidence suggests this was one of the earliest human communities in the region before later cultural shifts took place.

The site is named after a local well, showing how early inhabitants positioned their settlement with access to water sources in mind. The layout of structures reveals that fishing and small-scale herding coexisted as daily practices.

The site is reached by crossing to Isla del Congreso, where walking paths lead directly to the excavated areas. Bring sun protection and water, as the location sits fully exposed without any shade overhead.

The inhabitants left behind worked seashells and specialized stone tools showing they possessed advanced crafting techniques. These artifacts reveal an early understanding of how to process natural materials and transform them into everyday objects.

Location: Melilla

GPS coordinates: 35.17808,-2.43972

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:21