Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro or Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro of Valverde

Category: Archaeology > Dolmen

District: Évora > Évora > Nossa Senhora da Tourega e Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe

Location and Significance

Located near Valverde, Évora, in the Alentejo region of Portugal, the Anta Grande do Zambujeiro is one of the largest megalithic monuments in the Iberian Peninsula.

History and Construction

Built between 4,000 and 3,500 BC, this dolmen is a burial chamber used in the Neolithic period for burials and religious practices. It is notable for its structure of giant stones and an access corridor.

Ancient Art and Culture

Originally, it had a decorated menhir at the entrance, now fallen, which indicated the site and possibly symbolized rituals or beliefs of the time.

Current State and Concerns

In 2019, the Anta Grande do Zambujeiro faces serious conservation problems. Many of the vertical stones are visibly worn, and there is a risk of structural collapse.

Archaeological Importance

It demonstrates the technical skill and social complexity of the Neolithic communities that built it, highlighting the advanced engineering knowledge for the time.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anta_Grande_do_Zambujeiro

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