Turuñuelo facts for kids
El Turuñuelo, also known as Casas del Turuñuelo or El Turuñuelo de Guareña, is an amazing ancient site in Guareña, a town in Badajoz province, Spain. It's like a time capsule from the late Tartessian culture, which was a powerful civilization in the southwestern part of the Iberian Peninsula (where Spain and Portugal are today).
This site dates back to the 5th century BCE (that's over 2,500 years ago!). It became important after the main Tartessian cities in the Guadalquivir valley declined around the end of the 6th century BCE. El Turuñuelo is a large building that was intentionally set on fire and then carefully buried after a special ceremony.
People knew about the mound (a small hill) where the building is hidden since the 1980s. But serious digging work only started in 2015. By 2021, archaeologists had found 12 other similar structures in the area. Only two of these, Cancho Roano and La Mata, have been fully dug up. Because it's so important, El Turuñuelo was officially declared a site of cultural interest in May 2022.
One cool detail about the site is that the last six steps of the courtyard stairs are made using lime mortar. This was a special building material for its time.
Contents
What is El Turuñuelo?
El Turuñuelo is an ancient building that was part of the Tartessian culture. This culture lived in what is now Spain thousands of years ago. The site is special because it shows us how these people lived. It also gives clues about why they left their homes.
A Hidden Treasure
Archaeologists found this amazing place hidden under a mound of earth. They started digging carefully to uncover its secrets. It's like finding a giant puzzle from the past. Each piece helps us understand the Tartessian people better.
The Tartessian People
The Tartessians were an ancient civilization. They lived in the southwestern part of the Iberian Peninsula. They were known for their rich culture and trade. They built impressive structures, just like the one found at El Turuñuelo.
Life in the Guadiana Valley
El Turuñuelo is located in the Middle Guadiana Valley. This area was important for the Tartessian people. It was a place where they built their homes and lived their lives. The valley provided resources they needed to thrive.
A Mysterious End
One of the most interesting things about El Turuñuelo is how it ended. The large building was not just abandoned. It was ritually set on fire. Then, it was carefully buried. This was done after a special ceremony.
Why Was It Buried?
Archaeologists are still studying why the Tartessians did this. It might have been a way to honor the building. Or perhaps it was a way to protect it. It could also have been part of a religious event. This mystery makes the site even more fascinating.
Special Discoveries
The site has revealed some unique features. For example, the stairs in the courtyard are special. They show an early use of lime mortar. This material was important for building strong structures.
Other Similar Sites
El Turuñuelo is not the only site like this. Archaeologists have found other similar structures nearby. This suggests that this type of building was common. It helps us understand the wider Tartessian world.
Protecting Our Past
In May 2022, El Turuñuelo was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural. This means it's a very important cultural site. This title helps protect the site. It ensures that it can be studied and preserved for future generations.
See also
In Spanish: El Turuñuelo para niños
