Conny Waters – AncientPages.com – The city of Marbella in Málaga, Spain, has become the site of a significant archaeological discovery that could transform our understanding of prehistoric art on the Iberian Peninsula. Archaeologists at the Coto Correa site in Las Chapas have unearthed graphic designs on a stone block potentially dating back over 200,000 years. This area has been under archaeological protection since the 1950s, when early Paleolithic stone tools were accidentally found.
A block featuring prehistoric engravings discovered in Marbella is estimated to be around 200,000 years old. This finding provides valuable insights into the region’s ancient history and offers a glimpse into the artistic expressions of early human civilizations. Credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella
Scientists highly value Coto Correa for its remnants of ancient populations in the region. The site’s protection began following discoveries from the Lower Paleolithic era. Recent excavations have deepened knowledge about its geological history and uncovered knapped stone tools from one of its deepest layers.
According to the Department of Culture, Education, and Historical Heritage, these findings have shed light on geological evolution and the site’s human activity. Notably, a gabbro block marked with lines stands out for its exceptional significance. This discovery indicates that settlers were present in Marbella during the Early Middle Paleolithic—a period not well-documented in Spain and unprecedented in Málaga province. Furthermore, it includes a unique stone featuring human-origin graphic representations that might predate known cave art by 100,000 years.
The Department of Culture is conducting a study on this unique artistic document to verify the dating suggested by geoarchaeological analysis. Absolute dating techniques, including quartz analysis of various sediment samples, will be used to establish an accurate timeline. Additionally, 3D scanning will create a high-resolution virtual composite of the marks, allowing for detailed examination of the surface and identification of work marks and graphic elements. This method also serves as an essential tool for disseminating findings in scientific publications.
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The research phase is supported by funding of 8,000 euros. In addition to showcasing municipal commitment to archaeological research, confirming the proposed dating could position Marbella as a leader in Paleolithic studies. According to the information provided in the press release, once these studies are completed, the Department of Culture plans to organize activities that will thoroughly present the discovery and its scientific importance.
Written by Conny Waters – AncientPages.com Staff Writer
