Necropolis of Carenque, Archaeological site and nature reserve in Mina de Água, Portugal.
The Necropolis of Carenque is an archaeological site featuring three burial chambers carved directly into limestone rock formations. Each chamber has access corridors and openings designed to allow light, sealed with stone slabs.
Archaeologist Manuel Heleno discovered and excavated these late Neolithic tombs in 1932. The site was designated a National Monument in 1936, marking its importance for Portuguese heritage.
The burial chambers reflect Mediterranean funeral traditions where the dead were placed with limestone figurines, crescent-shaped objects, and tools that belonged to their community. These items provide insight into the beliefs and daily practices of an early society.
Visitors must schedule an appointment through the Amadora Archaeological Museum by phone or email before visiting. It is important to contact them in advance to confirm availability and access arrangements.
The chambers display a carefully planned construction with matching architectural elements across all three structures. This level of precision and standardization in Neolithic construction is rare and reveals sophisticated planning abilities.
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