Artificial caves of Alapraia or Eneolithic Necropolis of Alapraia

Category: Archaeology > Artificial Cave

District: Lisboa > Cascais > Alapraia

Location

In Estoril, municipality of Cascais, in the center of the village of Alapraia.

Description

- A set of four caves carved into marly limestone.

- They form circular vaulted chambers with central skylights protected by slabs.

- Access is through low and narrow corridors.

History

- First discovered in 1889 by Francisco de Paula Oliveira (Cave I).

- Subsequent soundings between 1932 and 1943, led by Afonso do Paço and Eugénio Jalhay.

- Classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1945.

- Collection exhibited at the Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum-Library and the Vila Museum.

Dimensions

- Cave I: Chamber 6.20m in diameter and 2.80m high: corridor 13.70m.

- Cave II: Chamber 4.30m in diameter and 2.20m high.

- Cave III: Chamber 6.20m in diameter and 2.40m high.

- Cave IV: Chamber 4.20m in diameter and 2.10m high: vestibule 7.10m.

Function

- They served as a necropolis, used between the Late Neolithic and the Chalcolithic.

- Funeral rituals were performed outside, with processions through the corridor.

- The deceased were placed in a seated position next to the walls of the chambers, with personal objects.

Cultural Significance

- Important example of the Bell-Beaker culture of the Neolithic.

- Valuable collection found in the caves reflects funerary practices of the time.

Visitation

- Recommended for enthusiasts of archeology and history.

- Pieces from the necropolis are on display in local museums, providing insight into life and death in prehistory.

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

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