Dessobriga, Archaeological site in Osorno-Melgar de Fernamental, Spain.
Dessobriga is an archaeological site on the Las Cuestas hill with remains from different periods, including circular dwellings, defensive walls, and a large administrative building. The excavations revealed an organized settlement with roughly 19 round houses and workshop areas containing furnaces for crafts.
The fortified settlement was founded during the Iron Age between the 8th and 5th centuries BC and was later converted into a Roman mansio along the Asturica-Tarraco road.
The name Dessobriga comes from Celtic roots: 'dess' means south or right, while 'briga' refers to a fortified settlement. These name elements reveal the Celtic origins of the region, which remain embedded in how the place is identified today.
The site is located on a hillside with archaeological remains that are freely accessible, allowing a good understanding of early settlement patterns. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since the terrain is uneven and there are no paved paths.
Excavations uncovered a Gallic coin from southwestern France, confirming the presence of Emperor Augustus's auxiliary troops in the area. This discovery reveals the far-reaching trade networks and military connections of Roman power.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
