Prehistoric Valencia: Paleolithic to the Bronze Age

Prehistory in Valencia: The Paleolithic Era

In the Valencian land, hominid remains of Homo neanderthalensis have been found. These early inhabitants were hunters who crafted flint instruments using stone carving techniques. This is demonstrated by the archaeological deposits found in the Cova Negra (Xàtiva). Hominids of the final Paleolithic stage were Homo sapiens sapiens. They processed and crafted more specialized flaked stone tools, as well as bone and antler tools. The main Valencian site of this stage is the cave of El Parpalló (Gandia), where researchers found, among other objects, stone plaques decorated with carvings and paintings of animals and geometric figures.

Levantine Rock Art and Cave Paintings

Levantine rock art developed further during the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. The paintings were made both outdoors and in rock shelters and shallow caves located on the high ground of gullies. Schematic drawings were made in red or black, depicting scenes in which human and animal figures appear in motion. Occasionally, some of these figures wear:

• Bracelets
• Headdresses
• Ribbons
• Feathers

These decorative motifs suggest that these individuals occupied a prominent status within the community.

The Neolithic Transition in Valencia

During the Neolithic period, the population continued to live in caves, such as the Cova de la Sarsa (in Bocairent, Valencia). Among the tools crafted in this period were polished stone implements used in agricultural work. However, the most characteristic objects of this stage were produced from bone and cardium pottery (ceramic cardia).

The Metal Age and Early Settlements

Metallurgical techniques were introduced to Valencian lands during the Copper Age by peoples from the eastern Mediterranean. The shortage of copper, however, prevented the widespread use of objects made with this metal. During this time, caves were replaced by cabins, forming unfortified villages situated in fertile plains.

During the Bronze Age, settlements appeared that differed significantly from those of the past. These new settlements were:

• Situated at high elevations
• Walled to defend against external attacks

The dwellings typically had a single rectangular room; their walls were made of adobe and rested on a stone base. During this stage, metal utensils were produced, and ceramics were manufactured with dark tones and polished surfaces.