Archaeologists have uncovered insights into a prehistoric building devastated by fire 2,200 years ago at Tossal de Baltarga, an Iron Age hillfort complex in Spain. The fire preserved organic materials, providing a glimpse into the lives of the inhabitants. Building G, a two-story structure, contained seeds, charcoal, and animal remains, revealing diverse economic activities and the use of local resources. The upper floor was divided into cooking and textile production spaces, while the lower floor had a stable with the remains of sheep, a goat, and a horse.
The presence of spindle whorls and loom weights on the upper floor suggested that wool from the animals below was spun and woven there. Edible grains and cooking vessels found in the building indicated that residents consumed milk and pork stews. An iron pickax, a gold earring, and burnt wood in the entrance suggested a sense of impending danger. The presence of six animals that perished in the fire but no human remains led researchers to speculate about the connection to the Second Punic War and Hannibal’s passage through the Pyrenees region.
Analysis of the sheep remains revealed their diet and suggested a complex livestock strategy involving lowland pastures and interactions with neighboring communities. The economy at Tossal de Baltarga was diverse, indicating connections with other groups and prominent families who controlled important resources like livestock and horses. The destruction of the site at the end of the 3rd century B.C. was likely connected to the war, with evidence of intentional and effective destruction of all buildings at the site. The findings shed light on Iron Age societies adapting to their environment and engaging in economic activities across different regions.
Overall, the study of Building G at Tossal de Baltarga has provided valuable insights into the daily lives, economic activities, and social networks of Iron Age communities in the Pyrenees region. The preserved organic materials and the evidence of intentional destruction during a turbulent historical period offer a unique perspective on ancient settlements and the challenges they faced. The discovery of Building G and the artifacts within have expanded our understanding of the complexities of Iron Age societies and their interactions with neighboring groups, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of ancient communities in the face of conflict and environmental changes.
