Ten years after being declared a World Heritage site, the Tholos of Romeral remains a mystery for archaeologists. A scientific day in Antequera calls for a research plan to unveil its origins.
The Tholos of Romeral has become the great challenge of Antequera archaeology. This was acknowledged by experts gathered this Thursday at the City Museum during a scientific day that highlighted the need to promote studies on this megalithic monument.
Unlike the dolmen of Menga, of which almost everything is known, the Romeral is an enigma. Its construction date, how it was built, or what its use was, are all unknowns. This void contrasts with the international recognition of the Dolmens Site as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, which celebrates its tenth anniversary this year.
The mayor of Antequera, Manuel Barón, emphasized that the archaeological site remains an "inexhaustible source" of knowledge. "Ten years after the declaration, we still have much to discover," he noted during the inauguration of the sessions.
The challenge of researching the Tholos of Romeral
The professor of Prehistory at the University of Seville, Leonardo García Sanjuán, was emphatic: "Practically everything about the Tholos of Romeral is unknown." In his speech, he explained that the work of the last two decades has placed the Dolmens of Antequera among the great megalithic ensembles in the world, but the Romeral remains an unresolved subject.
García Sanjuán argued that the next major objective should focus on this monument and also on the dolmen of Viera. "A medium- and long-term research program is essential to achieve the same level of knowledge we have about Menga," he stated.
The researcher insisted that the lack of data affects not only the scientific community but also dissemination. "If we invite visitors to learn about the Tholos of Romeral, we must be able to explain its history accurately," he pointed out.
Institutional collaboration to unveil the secrets
The councillor for Culture of Antequera, José Medina Galeote, highlighted the scientific nature of the sessions and defended collaboration between researchers, archaeologists, and the City Council. "Only in this way can we continue to deepen our understanding of our historical heritage," he indicated.
Medina Galeote also valued the environment of the Dolmens as a unique ensemble, whose study "continues to offer new opportunities to understand the prehistory of Antequera." The day served to lay the groundwork for future research that could change what we know about this monument.
For the residents of Antequera, the Tholos of Romeral is an icon that still holds its secrets. Understanding its history is not only a scientific issue but also a matter of local pride. The City Council has committed to promoting the necessary studies so that, in the coming years, the Romeral ceases to be an enigma.
For now, visitors who approach the megalithic site will continue to enjoy this ancient monument, albeit without answers to many questions. If research occurs, it promises to unveil a fascinating chapter of Andalusian prehistory.
You may also like
