‘Hidden ‘between mountains, it is one of the great archaeological secrets of Europe. This millennial cave reveals unique testimonies of human presence during the paleolithic. Its discovery was neither planned nor expected, but became one of the marks of European rock art.
An unexpected finding in Malaga
The story of Cueva de La Pleta begins in 1905, when José Bullón, a local farmer, was looking for Guano, a natural fertilizer from poultry and bat feces, in the mountains near Benaoján. Following the bat flight, he found something much more valuable: a cave full of prehistoric traces.
The farmer ‘opened the door’ to one of the most important archaeological sites of the Iberian Peninsula, according to El Confidential. Among the first findings were vessels, human bones and amazing paintings on the walls of the cave.
Incalculable value caves
In all, more than 500 figures painted inside the cave were identified. These include representations of animals such as bison, horses and fish, which give us clues about the fauna of the time and the concerns of the human communities of the time.
When archaeologist Henri Breuil visited the place, he was impressed by what he saw and, quoted by the same source, left a warning that he continues to this day: “Do not allow anything to damage the cave. Your paintings are a priceless treasure.”
A national heritage
In 1924, the historical and cultural importance of the cave led to officially classified as a national monument in Spain. Since then, it has been the target of studies, excavations and conservation actions.
Cueva de la pilete extends over two kilometers of galleries, with some zones reaching 15 meters high.
Rooms with history and unique objects
According to the previously mentioned source, during the visit, it is possible to explore several rooms with symbolic names, such as the Arclla room or the Castillo room. These spaces show that the cave was used as a passage or shelter by nomadic communities that circulated between the interior and the coast of the Andalusian.
Among the objects found is a female figure-shaped necklace. This piece can today be seen at the Malaga Museum.
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Organized visits and access rules
Currently, you can visit Cueva de La Pilete all year round, but only with previous marking. The visits are guided, take place in small groups and take place between 10:00 and 16:00 hours.
Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and arrive at least 20 minutes before the scheduled time. The ticket costs 15 euros for adults and 10 euros for children under 10 years.
Conditioned access, but unforgettable experience
Access to the cave is done through a 101 -step staircase, which can be challenging for those with reduced mobility. However, those who can overcome this physical barrier are rewarded with a trip to the most remote past of humanity.
The explanations of the guide, along with the cool and dark environment of the cave, provide an immersive and educational experience, as pointed out.
A legacy to preserve for the future
The conservation of La Pleta Cueva requires strict care. The entry of visitors is controlled to protect the paintings from moisture, artificial light and time action.
This cave is a clear example of how nature and history come together to tell us who we went. By visiting this space, each person contributes to keep the memory of the past of humanity alive.
The story of its discovery reminds us that it is sometimes the simple gestures that reveal the greatest treasures. What began as a search for fertilizer has become one of Europe’s most important archaeological findings.
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