The Quest For Atlantis Continues As Recent Discovery Sheds Light On Lost Ancient Society

By: Phoebe Hart | Last updated: Sep 22, 2023

In a stunning discovery that could shed new light on a little-known ancient society, archaeologists in Spain have unearthed five exquisite stone busts dating back 2,500 years. The statues, discovered at the Casas del Turuñuelo site in Guareña, southern Spain, are thought to depict members of a prosperous yet enigmatic civilization that once flourished in the region.

These remarkable artifacts, which are remarkably well-preserved, offer a tantalizing glimpse into the lives and customs of a people whose story has largely been lost to time. 

It Had An Interesting History

Casas del Turuñuelo, where the remarkable stone busts were discovered, was once a bustling hub of activity. It was built by the Tartessos, an ancient civilization that thrived in the southern Iberian Peninsula around 3,000 years ago. This enigmatic civilization, known for its skilled metalworking, trading prowess, and lavish gold ornaments, left behind few written records, leading to a wealth of speculation and mystery surrounding its culture.

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However, the impressive size and design of the Casas del Turuñuelo complex, with its imposing walls and grand architectural features, suggest the Tartessos were highly sophisticated, with a keen eye for design and a deep reverence for the land on which they built their homes.

Gone Without a Trace

Despite their impressive achievements, the Tartessos disappeared from history without explanation, leaving little more than a few tantalizing clues into their culture and customs. Their mysterious disappearance has led to numerous theories and speculation, with some even linking them to the legendary lost city of Atlantis. To make matters more intriguing, there are no surviving images of Tartessian people, making it impossible to know what they looked like—until now. 

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The discovery of these striking stone busts at Casas del Turuñuelo has finally given us a glimpse into the faces of this long-lost civilization. According to researchers at the Higher Council for Scientific Research (CSIC) in Spain, these sculptures are the first known human representations of Tartessos, providing invaluable insights into the appearance and identity of this enigmatic people.

The Tartessians Lived a Rich Life

The Tartessos flourished on the southern Iberian Peninsula around three thousand years ago. Tartessians enjoyed a high standard of living because they roamed an area with plentiful tin, gold, and copper deposits. According to the ancient Greek historian Ephorus, tin, gold, and copper from Celtic countries were often traded at the bustling market of Tartessos. 

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Some academics speculate that the Tartessian civilization’s wealth and technological advancements may have influenced the creation of the Atlantis myth. The Tartessians achieved a great deal, but their society ultimately collapsed, leaving a rich and intriguing historical heritage that interests historians and curious individuals.

A Melting Pot of Trade and Industry

Few places in the ancient world were as renowned for their wealth and prosperity as Tartessos. Situated in what is now modern-day Andalusia, this city-state was a hub of metalworking and trade, dealing in precious commodities such as tin, gold, and copper. But there is more to Tartessos than just its material riches. 

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Recent archaeological discoveries have challenged the notion that this culture was devoid of artistry or representation. In fact, experts believe that Tartessian artisans were capable of producing raffiné figurative sculptures that rival those of their more famous contemporaries. It’s a testament to the skill and creativity of this little-known civilization, and a reminder that there is always more to discover about the rich tapestry of human history.

Conducting a Thorough Investigation

As the excavation team dug deeper into the eastern sector of the Casas del Turuñuelo site, they stumbled upon a sight that would take their breath away. Amidst the rubble and debris of centuries past, they uncovered two busts of almost complete female figures, perfectly preserved despite the passage of time. It was a moment of pure awe and wonder, as the team realized the magnitude of their discovery. 

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How had these figures remained untouched for so long, hidden away from the world until now? And what did they signify? As they carefully extracted the busts from the earth, the team couldn’t help but feel a sense of reverence and respect for the ancient culture that had created them.

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Abundance in Art in Tartessos

The ultroneous discovery of these two ancient figures adorned with enormous earrings has shed new light on the art and fashion of the Tartessos civilization. The effulgent pieces of goldsmithing, known to have been popular in the era and region, are now finally appreciated for their true beauty and significance. Esther Rodríguez, co-director of the excavation site, was thrilled to unveil the find, revealing how the chain was used to attach the earrings to the ear. 

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It was a revelation that seemed to capture the imagination of everyone present, transporting them back in time to a world of elegant sophistication and artistic creativity. As the figures glistened in the light, it was clear that these earrings were more than just pieces of jewelry—they were works of art, infused with the soul and spirit of the Tartessos civilization.

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Examining These Curious Finds

With their delicate features and ethereal expressions, the two pristine sculptures are believed to represent the revered goddesses of old. Their divine essence is palpable, as if they still sway over the land they once presided over. The third bust, a fierce warrior with a steely gaze, stands out as a testament to the strength and valor of the Tartessos people. 

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Were they also deities or could they be the revered leaders of this ancient society? This discovery opens a window into a world shrouded in mystery, revealing the mythic tales and legends that once defined a culture lost to time.

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Connections to the Lost City of Atlantis

Historians and archaeologists alike have yet to solve the mystery of the lost Tartessos civilization. The discovery of the Casas del Turuuelo’s charred remnants has further deepened the mystery surrounding its ultimate destiny. Although the Tartessos left little traces of their destruction of the well-crafted ruins, it is widely assumed that they did so purposefully. 

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About 2, 500 years ago, the Tartessos disappeared, leaving only a few remnants of their civilization and an everlasting interest. Some have even made connections between Tartessos and Atlantis, a city whose very existence is still hotly contested by historians. Some have theorized that the Tartessos vanished somewhere in the Bermuda Triangle, never to be seen again.

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A Mystery Yet to Be Solved

Also dubbed the Devil’s Triangle, this infamous patch of the Atlantic Ocean has mystified and intrigued people for decades. With over 50 ships and 20 airplanes vanishing without a trace in the area, it’s no wonder it has become an urban legend. Some speculate that the triangle is cursed or home to supernatural forces, while others believe it results from natural disasters like mass flooding, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions. 

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Let’s not forget about Tartessos as well, the fabled city that some believe was contemporaneous with Atlantis. Despite years of speculation and countless expeditions, the true nature of the Devil’s Triangle remains a mystery. Perhaps we’ll never truly understand the secrets within its murky waters.

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