Dólmenes de Valencia de Alcántara, Neolithic burial site in Valencia de Alcántara, Spain
Dólmenes de Valencia de Alcántara is an archaeological site containing around 55 megalithic structures made from granite and slate in western Spain. These stone burial chambers form one of the largest concentrations of such monuments in the entire western European region.
These megalithic structures were built during the Neolithic period between the 4th and 3rd millennia BC as burial chambers for early communities. Archaeologists uncovered tools, ornaments, and ritual objects within the chambers that reveal aspects of these ancient peoples' lives.
The term dolmen originates from Breton language meaning stone table, referring to structures made of vertical orthostats supporting horizontal capstones.
The site can be explored through five walking routes that lead to different groups of monuments, each offering different impressions of the landscape. Visit in clear weather, as the paths cross open countryside with minimal shade from the sun.
The stone blocks were stacked without mortar and have endured nearly 5000 years with minimal structural damage, showcasing the craftsmanship of prehistoric builders. The precision of their construction reveals sophisticated understanding of stone placement and weight distribution.
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