Eneolithic Necropolis of Alapraia

Category: Nature > Reserva natural

District: Lisboa > Cascais > Cascais e Estoril > Alapraia

Location

Situated in the heart of the Alapraia area, within the urban sprawl of Cascais and Estoril, this necropolis is surprising for its integration into the residential fabric. It is conveniently positioned, making its access straightforward for those traveling through this area. The uniqueness of its location, in the center of a populated area, offers a contrast between modern life and remnants of an ancient civilization.

A Glimpse into the Distant Past

The Eneolithic Necropolis of Alapraia, also known as the Artificial Caves of Alapraia, stands as a remarkable testament to prehistoric funerary practices. This complex of four artificially excavated underground tombs was used for burials between the late Neolithic and the Chalcolithic periods, dating back to the fourth and third millennia BC. Its importance lies in being one of the most expressive examples of the Bell Beaker culture in the region, revealing the beliefs and rituals of communities that inhabited this territory thousands of years ago.

The Uniqueness of its Construction

The artificial caves of Alapraia are excavated in marly limestone, and each possesses a distinct structure. They feature circular chambers with a vaulted ceiling, accessed through a long, narrow corridor. An unusual and ingenious characteristic is the presence of a central skylight, which earned them the designation of "rabbit hutch-type artificial caves." This opening at the top likely served to facilitate the deposition of the interred into the chamber when access via the corridor became difficult due to the accumulation of bodies.

Vestiges of an Ancestral Culture

The site of the Eneolithic Necropolis of Alapraia is not merely a funerary structure; it is a portal to understanding the customs of ancient peoples. Archaeological investigations have revealed that funeral rites took place outdoors, followed by a procession that led the deceased into the caves. Bodies were placed against the walls of the chambers in a seated position and were accompanied by various objects, deposited by their families with the intention of accompanying them into the afterlife. The discovery and study of these caves, which began in the late 19th century and continued throughout the 20th century, led to the classification of the complex as a Property of Public Interest, recognizing its invaluable contribution to historical and cultural heritage.

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