Verraco de las Cogotas, Ancient stone sculpture at Plaza Calvo Sotelo, Ávila, Spain
The Verraco de las Cogotas is a limestone sculpture portraying a pig with drilled eyes and finely detailed body features including tusks and anatomical proportions. The work captures the animal in a naturalistic stance that reveals careful observation of its form.
The work originated in the Iron Age settlement of Castro de Las Cogotas, created by the Vettones before Roman expansion into the peninsula. It demonstrates the artistic sophistication of this pre-conquest society.
The sculpture reflects how pre-Roman communities viewed animals as spiritually significant, with the figure standing as evidence of those ancient beliefs about the natural world. It represents a tradition of honoring livestock that was central to daily life.
The sculpture is located on Plaza Calvo Sotelo near the medieval city walls of Ávila, making it easily accessible during a walk through the historic center. The surrounding area is pedestrian-friendly and integrates well with other sites worth visiting nearby.
The sculpture features a curled tail and finely defined hooves that reveal the stonecarver's technical skill in capturing small details. These anatomical refinements distinguish it from other examples of this art form from the period.
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