Category: Archaeology > Mining Settlement
District: Castelo Branco > Vila Velha de Ródão > Vila Velha de Ródão > Conhal do Arneiro
The Conhal Archaeological Area is located in the district of Castelo Branco, within the municipality and locality of Vila Velha de Ródão. More specifically, this site of historical interest is situated in Conhal do Arneiro. Its geographical surroundings are dominated by a natural landscape that merges with the marks of intense past human activity, offering views over an area where geology and ancient intervention meet.
The site is immersed in a rural environment, often bathed in natural light that highlights its unique features. Its proximity to striking natural elements, such as the course of the River Tagus, contributes to the uniqueness of the landscape setting of this archaeological site, which stands out for its peculiar formations.
This remarkable archaeological site is a testament to extensive gold exploration dating back to remote times, particularly the Roman era. The most visible and characteristic elements are the "conhais", which consist of enormous deposits of pebbles and sands, resulting from the use of intensive hydraulic washing techniques. These techniques involved diverting large volumes of water to dismantle and wash alluvial deposits in search of the precious metal.
The scale of human intervention is impressive, visible in the artificial geological formations that cover the landscape. It is possible to discern traces of ancient water channels, known as "levadas", which were essential for transporting the water needed for mining operations. These elements constitute an authentic cultural landscape, shaped by the ingenuity and effort of those who worked here.
The Conhal Archaeological Area represents a fascinating example of how human activity can radically transform a natural landscape. The mountains of gravel and the dry beds of once active channels create a distinctive scenery, where nature, over time, has been covering and integrating these artificial formations. This process has resulted in a landscape of great scenic value, marked by a singular topography and the presence of flora that has adapted to this type of soil.
Observation of the site allows for an understanding of the scale of the mining operation, which left an indelible mark on the region. The interaction between natural geological elements and the landforms created by human exploration gives Conhal do Arneiro a particular beauty, different from the surrounding landscape.
The Conhal Archaeological Area is a monument to human persistence in the exploration of natural resources. The gold extracted from this region, primarily during the Roman occupation, played a crucial role in the economy and expansion of the empire. The site offers an opportunity to reflect on the technologies and social organization required to sustain a mining operation of such magnitude two thousand years ago.
This site is a historical and cultural heritage that speaks to us of an era of great economic dynamism and profound intervention in the territory. Its preservation allows current and future generations to understand and appreciate the complexity of the past and how it continues to shape the landscape and identity of the region.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Área_arqueológica_do_Conhal
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.63432436850751,-7.693457170779664
Coordinates DMS: 39°38'3.6"N 07°41'36.4"W
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