Yacimiento Peñas de los Gitanos, Archaeological site in Montefrío, Spain
Peñas de los Gitanos is an archaeological site with limestone cliffs containing prehistoric caves, burial chambers, and settlement remains across a dramatic valley. The landscape features gorges and passages that preserve traces of occupation from the earliest human settlements through later periods.
The site shows continuous human settlement from the Neolithic through the Bronze Age and later periods with evidence of Roman, Visigothic, and Islamic occupation. Each culture left distinctive structures and burial methods reflecting their presence at this strategically located area.
The site reveals how different peoples lived and built here across thousands of years, leaving traces of their beliefs and burial practices. The structures show the spiritual importance this place held for communities who inhabited the cliffs and gorges.
Access to many areas requires a guided tour to safely explore the site. Visitors need sturdy footwear since the terrain is uneven with steep paths between rocks and caves.
The gorge still contains ancient water mills, showing how inhabitants harnessed flowing water for daily work. These structures represent a later layer of human activity added to this long-inhabited site.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
