Necropolis of Pardieiro

Category: Nature > Reserva natural

District: Beja > Odemira > São Martinho das Amoreiras > Portelinha

Location

The Pardieiro Necropolis is located in the Alentejo region, nestled on a small elevation that is part of the Serra da Vigia. This archaeological site is situated in the Portelinha urbanization, in the locality of São Martinho das Amoreiras, belonging to the municipality of Odemira. Its position, next to the road connecting São Martinho das Amoreiras to Corte Malhão, integrates it harmoniously into the rural landscape of the region, offering a serene environment conducive to historical exploration.

Testimony of the Iron Age

This ancient site reveals an important necropolis from the Early Iron Age, dating back approximately 2500 years, between the late 7th century BCE and the early 6th century BCE. Recognized as one of the most significant archaeological sites of its kind in Portugal, the Pardieiro Necropolis offers a unique perspective on the society that inhabited here and their ancestral funerary rituals. Its remarkable preservation and the richness of the findings have allowed archaeologists in-depth study of this forgotten civilization.

The Architecture of the Tombs

The necropolis is composed of thirteen distinct funerary structures, eleven of which are notable for their dry-stone construction, with a sub-rectangular plan and arranged adjacently. These covered tombs were excavated directly into the schist bedrock, protected by masonry frames also made of schist. Some of the large slabs used as covers were carefully dressed and display decorative elements. In the center of the complex, a larger tomb stands out, notable for being aligned according to the cardinal points, suggesting precise intent and symbolism in its conception.

Messages from a Distant Past

The artifacts collected from the necropolis are of great value, with particular emphasis on the presence of three stone stelae engraved with the enigmatic Southwest Script. This writing system, considered the oldest in Western Europe, remains largely undeciphered, representing a fascinating cultural legacy of the Tartessian peoples. Two stelae with engravings of feet, known as podomorphs, were also found. These symbolic representations raise questions about the belief in the "journey to death" or even a possible connection to rituals of acclaiming ancient leaders or "kings," lending the site a profound symbolic dimension. Additionally, toasted barley grains were discovered, which may indicate the production of a primitive form of beer, and a set of votive offerings, including items of gold, silver, amber, and pottery, which enrich our understanding of the burial customs of the era.

Archaeological Legacy

The discovery of the Pardieiro Necropolis in 1971, following the finding of a stele with Southwest Script, marked the beginning of a journey of research and enhancement. Over the decades, several archaeological campaigns have unveiled the secrets of this site. Later, restoration and enhancement works were carried out, including the installation of signage and information panels, making the site accessible. This continuous work ensures that the valuable testimony of this necropolis remains available to those interested in history and archaeology.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt