Guide to Prehistoric Rock Art Sites in the Côa Valley and Siega Verde

Welcome to an exciting journey through time as we delve into the fascinating world of prehistoric rock art in the Côa Valley (Portugal) and Siega Verde (Spain). This guide aims to provide valuable information for tourists seeking a unique, enriching experience immersed in the rich cultural heritage of our ancient ancestors.

Overview

The Côa Valley and Siega Verde are located along the Douro River, which runs through Portugal and Spain. Both areas are UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to their exceptional concentration of rock art sites dating back over 20,000 years. These sites offer a rare glimpse into the lives, beliefs, and artistic expression of our early human ancestors during the Upper Paleolithic period.

Côa Valley Rock Art Site (Portugal)

Location

The Côa Valley rock art site is situated in northern Portugal, about 40 kilometers east of the city of Vila Real. The best way to reach the site is by car or guided tour, as public transportation options are limited.

Highlights

• Age: Approximately 22,000 - 13,000 years old
• Size: Over 29,000 individual figures across an area of 14 kilometers
• Accessibility: Most sites can be visited on foot; some require a guided tour due to their remote locations

What to see

The Côa Valley rock art features a variety of motifs, including anthropomorphic (human) and zoomorphic (animal) figures, as well as geometric shapes. The most common animals depicted are bovids, horses, and ibexes.

Tips for visitors

• Wear comfortable walking shoes: Many sites require walking on uneven terrain.
• Bring water and snacks: There may not be facilities available near the rock art sites.
• Book a guided tour: For a more in-depth understanding of the rock art and its significance, consider booking a guided tour with a local expert.

Siega Verde Rock Art Site (Spain)

Location

The Siega Verde rock art site is located near the town of Miranda de Ebro in the autonomous community of Castile and Leon, Spain. It can be reached by car or guided tour.

Highlights

• Age: Over 15,000 years old
• Size: Approximately 8,000 figures across an area of 23 kilometers
• Accessibility: Most sites can be visited on foot; some require a guided tour due to their remote locations

What to see

The Siega Verde rock art shares similarities with the Côa Valley rock art in terms of motifs, including anthropomorphic and zoomorphic figures. The most common animals depicted are bovids, horses, and deer.

Tips for visitors

• Wear comfortable walking shoes: Many sites require walking on uneven terrain.
• Bring water and snacks: There may not be facilities available near the rock art sites.
• Book a guided tour: For a more in-depth understanding of the rock art and its significance, consider booking a guided tour with a local expert.

Respecting the Sites

When visiting these prehistoric rock art sites, it is essential to respect the cultural and historical importance of the area. This includes:

• Staying on designated paths
• Not touching or defacing the rock art
• Leaving no trace behind (take all waste with you)
• Being mindful of your behavior and language to ensure a positive experience for all visitors

Conclusion

The prehistoric rock art sites in the Côa Valley and Siega Verde offer an unparalleled opportunity to connect with our ancient ancestors. By visiting these sites, tourists can gain a deeper appreciation for humanity’s artistic and cultural heritage while contributing to their preservation and ongoing study. Happy travels!