Oldest Known Greek Altar of Its Kind Found in Western Mediterranean Reveals the Greek-Asian Connection

Archaeologists have recently unearthed a majestic piece of Greek history from Spain. The uncovered evidence was a fragment of a marble column found at Casas del Turuñuelo in the southwestern part of the country, as reported by the Greek Reporter. Further examinations have indicated that the column was possibly functioning as a Greek altar. If the assertions are true, the supposed Greek altar will be the oldest known structure of its kind in the western Mediterranean. The features of marble stones in the altar further imply that they were extracted from the island of Maramara, in present-day Turkey. The discovery stood out to experts, as it was the first of its kind marble piece to be found inland in Spain, rather than the coastal areas.

Features of the Marble Column

The team discovered the column during an excavation campaign organized by the Mérida Institute of Archaeology. Further analysis showcased that the column dated back to around the 5th century B.C. Researchers claimed that it measured around 24 inches in diameter and stood at a height of 5 feet. The stones which were used to build the altar were identified as Proconnesian marble, typically found in Turkey. As of now, laboratory tests are underway to determine from which exact quarry the stones were extracted.

Why is the Altar So Unique?

The discovery of the altar has turned many heads as it showcases the link between the Greek culture and Maramara (Asia Minor), which was then part of the Greek empire, according to La Brujula Verde (LBV). It is the first time archaeologists have found a Greek marble column made out of stones from Asia in the region. The supposed altar becomes more exceptional due to its positioning and presence alongside the attic cups from the same period.

The fact that an altar is present at Casas del Turuñuelo and not on the coast, with such valuable artifacts, implies that the site was a vital location. Mostly, these altars were found in coastal sites, making researchers speculate that those areas were important for trade and hence, honored with such structures. If the same thing is observed in Casas del Turuñuelo, then that means it was also vital for Mediterranean trade networks. 

Importance of Casas del Turuñuelo

During the excavation campaign, archaeologists also found valuable ceramic artifacts, a bronze potter's wheel, and attic cups. They have also detected six new rooms on the site and structures that showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of the builders. In previous explorations, researchers have uncovered items, indicating that the site present in the Vegas Atlas of the Guadiana River was vital during the Tartessian period. Some of the noteworthy findings include Macedonian glass and a foot sculpture made of Pentelic marble from Athens. In 2017, archaeologists found evidence of ancient animal sacrifices and ritual abandonment on the site. All of these discoveries reflect the high political and economic value the site held during that specific period, and how civilians prioritized religion and rituals. The presence of the altar just adds to the site's elusive legacy.