Discover Spain’s hidden gems: 5 routes through indigenous cultures

Spain, a land of rich and diverse history, offers travelers the opportunity to delve into its ancient pre-Roman cultures. One of the most fascinating routes to explore is through the Celtiberian territories. Begin your journey in Soria, where the Centro de Interpretación de los Celtíberos provides an introduction to these ancient peoples. From there, head to the nearby site of Numancia, where you can witness the ruins of a once-thriving city that resisted Roman conquest. Continue to Tiermes, another Celtiberian stronghold, where the remains of a Roman forum and baths are visible. The journey culminates in the stunning Archaeological Park of Segóbriga, located in Cuenca, where visitors can explore a Roman amphitheater and thermal baths. Another route worth exploring is the Celtic Galicia, home to the Castro de Santa Tecla, a fortified village overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This site offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the lives of the ancient Celts. Nearby, the Castro de Baroña, with its circular stone huts, is one of the most photogenic archaeological sites in Spain. In the Basque Country, the Castro de Las Peñas de Oro, perched on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and a chance to explore the remains of a Celtic fortification. Further east, in Navarre, the San Juan de la Peña monastery is a stunning example of medieval architecture, built beneath a towering cliff. The monastery complex includes the church of Santa María la Real, where visitors can admire intricate Romanesque carvings depicting biblical scenes. For those interested in the Iberian culture, the Route of the Iberians in Catalonia is a must-see. Start in Ullastret, where the remains of an ancient Iberian city include stone walls, a necropolis, and a sanctuary. Continue to the Archaeological Park of Almedinilla, where visitors can explore an Iberian village and a Roman villa. The park also features a museum that showcases the daily life of the Iberians. Another highlight is the Tossal de Manises in Alicante, an ancient Iberian settlement with impressive fortifications and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. The journey through Spain’s ancient cultures wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Balearic Islands, where the Talayotic culture once thrived. On Menorca, the Naveta des Tudons, a prehistoric tomb shaped like a boat, is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks. Nearby, the Taula of Trepucó, a large T-shaped stone structure, is believed to have been a place of worship. On the island of Mallorca, the Talayotic settlement of Son Fornés includes several talayots, or stone towers, and a sanctuary. This journey through Spain’s ancient cultures is not only a lesson in history but also an opportunity to enjoy the country’s stunning landscapes and vibrant traditions. Whether exploring the Celtiberian fortresses of Soria or the Talayotic monuments of the Balearic Islands, travelers will find themselves immersed in a world of mystery and wonder. These routes offer a unique glimpse into the past, revealing the foundations of modern Spain and the enduring legacy of its ancient peoples.