Colmeeiro Anta - Herdade das Dessouras Anta

Category: Archaeology > Dolmen

District: Évora > Redondo > Freixo

Location

Situated in the peaceful locality of Freixo, in the municipality of Redondo, district of Évora, the Anta do Colmeeiro, Anta da Herdade das Dessouras is immersed in the characteristic rural landscape of Alentejo. This prehistoric monument is framed by an environment of serenity, where the gaze is lost among cork oak montados and olive groves, reflecting the tranquil and timeless essence of the region. Its location invites contemplation of nature and quietude, offering an experience of deep connection with the Alentejo territory.

Testament to the Neolithic

This imposing stone monument is a silent testament to one of the most fascinating periods in human history in Portugal: the Neolithic period. The Anta do Colmeeiro served primarily as a collective tomb, a sacred place where prehistoric communities of Alentejo deposited their dead. Its existence reflects the complexity of the beliefs and funeral rituals of those who inhabited these lands thousands of years ago, as well as their social organization and their capacity to undertake great works.

Megalithic Architecture

The construction of the Anta do Colmeeiro mirrors the remarkable engineering of megalithic societies. Typically, an anta consists of large vertical stones, known as orthostats or standing stones, which form the funerary chamber. These are covered by a massive slab, the table or capstone, which can weigh several tons. The way these communities managed to move and erect stones of such great size, using only rudimentary techniques and human strength, is an impressive feat that still amazes those who observe them and meditate on the collective effort involved.

Cultural and Landscape Significance

Beyond its undeniable archaeological value, the Anta do Colmeeiro holds deep cultural and landscape significance. Its presence in the terrain is not just a vestige of the past, but also an integral element of the Alentejo identity. These monuments, often isolated in the vast landscape, invite reflection on the passage of time and the permanence of human presence. They represent a tangible link with our most remote ancestors and an enduring legacy of a civilization that shaped the landscape and culture of the region.

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