Exploring Cueva De Los Pilares: A Glimpse into Ancient Canarian Life
Cueva De Los Pilares, an ancient cave complex, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the pre-Hispanic Canarians. These caves, carved into the volcanic tuff of Gran Canaria, offer a unique insight into the lives and rituals of the ancient inhabitants.
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Strategic Location and Architectural Marvel
The caves are strategically positioned on the southern face of a mountain. This orientation shields them from harsh weather while maximizing sunlight exposure. The ancient Guanches enhanced these natural dwellings with walls and partitions made from sticks and skins. They also created larder areas, silos, and seating arrangements within the caves. Notably, the site includes La Audiencia, a cave used as a village grain store, located 200 meters towards the coast. Its access involves navigating stone steps, a feature that likely served defensive purposes.
Ritual and Community Spaces
Among the numerous caves, Cueva de los Papeles and Cueva de los Pilares are particularly significant. These interconnected cavities, created with stone picks, suggest a complex community life with specific areas designated for rituals around fertility. At the mountain’s summit, the Canarians established an almogarén, a sacred space for offerings to deities like Alcorac, the Sun.
The Unmentioned Historical Significance
Interestingly, the chronicles of the conquest, which occurred just four kilometers away at the Tower of the Conquest, do not mention this site. This omission adds a layer of mystery and underscores the site’s possible sacred status, shielded from the invading cultures.
Modern Use and Preservation Challenges
In the 1960s, Cueva De Los Pilares served as a film set, which unfortunately led to some alterations and damage. Moreover, the caves have suffered from natural erosion and human activities, such as housing livestock. Despite these challenges, the site is now an Archaeological Park, open to the public and serving as a crucial educational resource.
Astronomical Observations and Cultural Continuity
The cave complex also plays a role in modern cultural practices, particularly the observation of the summer solstice. Adjustments made to the cave structures enable precise solar alignments, connecting past traditions with present-day cultural practices.
Conclusion
Cueva De Los Pilares is not just an archaeological site but a bridge to the past, offering invaluable insights into the social, ritualistic, and everyday lives of the ancient Canarians. Its preservation and continued study are essential for understanding the rich cultural heritage of Gran Canaria.
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