Santomera archaeological site reveals centuries of hidden history

New discoveries at the Sierra de Balumba site reveal how the strategic hilltop was used from the Bronze Age through to the Andalusian period

A hilltop in Santomera has been revealing its secrets this summer, with archaeologists uncovering evidence that the Sierra de Balumba was still being used more than 1,000 years after the Iberian settlement that once stood there had disappeared.

The latest excavation has confirmed an Andalusian presence at the site between the 10th and 12th centuries. Pottery fragments found during the work suggest there was a control post here, making use of Sierra de Balumba's position overlooking the Segura Valley.

It's a discovery that adds another chapter to the history of a site which has already proved to be far more than just a lookout point.

The archaeological work has identified several different layers, allowing researchers to build a much clearer picture of how the hilltop was used over the centuries. Among the oldest remains are those from the Final Bronze Age, dating to around 1100 BC.

Much later, Sierra de Balumba became an important Iberian settlement and appears to have played a significant role in trade across the southeast of the peninsula.

Archaeologists have found luxury pottery from Greece, as well as materials that arrived from places including Egypt, Carthage, Marseille, Ibiza and Cádiz.

These finds suggest that the Sierra de Balumba was connected to the Mediterranean trading world, with routes linking the coast to the interior.

The Iberian settlement was eventually abandoned at the end of the 4th century BC, but the latest discoveries show that the hilltop's strategic importance did not end there.

An excavation was carried out this summer by the Asociación Patrimonio Santomera in collaboration with the Ayuntamiento. Around 15 students and young archaeologists from different parts of Spain and abroad took part, combining practical training with research and conservation work.

Santomera mayor Víctor Martínez visited the site this week with Heritage councillor Ricardo Giner to see the progress of the campaign.

Martínez said the work had helped complete the site's chronological sequence and provide a clearer understanding of what happened there from its earliest origins through to its abandonment.

The Ayuntamiento also sees potential for Sierra de Balumba to attract more visitors. Plans are in place to improve access to the site, with Martínez describing it as a potential tourist attraction.

The excavation is part of the municipal 'Santomera Milenaria' project, which researches, conserves and promotes the municipality’s historical heritage.

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Images Santomera Town Hall