Archaeologists Excavate One of the Largest Tombs on Record

Archaeologists with the University of Cádiz have excavated one of the largest tombs ever discovered in Andalusia, which illuminates the burial rituals of the Copper Age, Ancient Origins reported.

Researchers Marvel at Grave's 'Virtually Complete' State

The remarkable burial, discovered in the town of Teba, Málaga, has stunned researchers, who called it "virtually complete.” The outside of the tomb was adorned with grave goods which indicate that the person buried within was wealthy and enjoyed a high social status within the community. Also found were a few completely intact ossuaries, which is a room or container in which the remains were stored. Inside the grave were a number of offerings crafted from high-quality materials such as ivory, amber, and seashells as well as flint arrowheads, larger blades, and a halberd, a combined spear and battle axe.

According to lead study author Eduardo Vijande, the grave’s stunning preservation "will allow us to gain detailed understanding of the lifestyles and beliefs of these communities.” Co-author Juan Jesús Cantillo believes that, in particular, the seashells "reflects the importance of the sea as an element of prestige and the existence of very extensive exchange networks."

Tomb is One of 13 at the Ancient Site

This tomb is one of 13 located within the La Lentejuela necropolis. The graves date from the Neolithic period to the fourth millennium B.C. Bronze Age settlements later returned to use the graves, indicating their lasting communal significance. Historians say that the site reinforces the notion that Spain was an epicenter of megalithic construction and one of the most sophisticated prehistoric societies. The most recent excavation highlights the complicated social hierarchies which existed within Copper Age communities, as well as shedding light on how those ancient people traded and co-existed with one another.