Discovering Torralba d’en Salort: A Prehistoric Gem in Menorca
Torralba d’en Salort, nestled in the municipality of Alaior, stands as one of Menorca’s most stunning prehistoric sites. This well-preserved settlement offers a vivid glimpse into the island’s ancient past. Let’s explore its rich history and remarkable features.
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A Walk Through History
This site showcases two talayots, which are massive stone towers. Among these, the West Talayot dates back to the 13th century BC, determined through carbon-14 dating. The taula, a striking T-shaped stone monument, served as a sanctuary starting from the 4th century BC. This period coincided with the Punic expansion, a significant era for the settlement. Torralba d’en Salort’s history spans from the Early Bronze Age to the Middle Ages, encompassing the Iron Age and Roman periods.
Architectural Marvels
The site boasts a unique hypostyle hall. This half-buried structure, covered with slabs supported by columns, likely served as a storage area in the 1st century BC. The cyclopean wall, underground silos, and hypogea (underground chambers) add to the site’s complexity. Visitors can also see remnants of prehistoric houses, a medieval village, and water tanks.
Significant Discoveries
Archaeologists have made several fascinating finds at Torralba d’en Salort. In the 1970s, the team of William Waldren and Manuel Fernández-Miranda uncovered many treasures. Among these, a bronze statuette of an ox, now displayed at the Museum of Minorca, stands out. They also found two terracotta figures of the goddess Tanit and three bronze horse legs on a small stone altar. These artifacts, along with prehistoric, Punic, and Roman ceramics, highlight the site’s rich cultural tapestry.
Preservation and Access
Fundació Illes Balears acquired Torralba d’en Salort in 1990. Since then, they have maintained the site and encouraged visitors to explore it. Recognized as a “Site of Cultural Interest” (BIC), this archaeological gem is also part of the candidacy for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
To visit Torralba d’en Salort, head to kilometer 2.5 on the road between Alaior and Cala en Porter. The site’s accessibility makes it a must-see for anyone interested in Menorca’s ancient history.
Conclusion
Torralba d’en Salort is not just an archaeological site; it’s a journey through time. Its well-preserved structures and artifacts offer a window into the lives of Menorca’s ancient inhabitants. Whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast or a curious traveler, this site promises a fascinating and enriching experience.
Sources:
Visitmenorca.com
torralbadensalort.com
Neural Pathways is a collective of seasoned experts and researchers with a profound passion for unraveling the enigmas of ancient history and artifacts. With a wealth of combined experience spanning decades, Neural Pathways has established itself as a leading voice in the realm of archaeological exploration and interpretation.