PETROGLYPHS IN LAS HURDES: CAMINOMORISCO

Las Hurdes is characterised by its mountainous terrain, with deep valleys traversed by five rivers that flow into the Alagón, a tributary of the Tagus. Although situated on the Castilian plateau, the region enjoys a distinctive Mediterranean microclimate with cold winters and warm summers, giving rise to unique vegetation comprising forests of pine, strawberry tree, cork oak, oak, chestnut and olive trees, some of which are centuries old, alongside an undergrowth of heather, rosemary, rockroses and lavender, which are particularly used for honey production. In the past, Las Hurdes was a region populated by shepherds, but the reforestation of pine trees destroyed much of the mountain pastureland and its livestock-based economy. Scattered throughout this mountainous landscape are numerous small villages (alquerías) perched on the hillsides, where one can see many terraced fields that once provided a livelihood for the villagers. The houses of Las Hurdes are an example of traditional vernacular architecture, with stone walls and roofs made of local slate.

The rock art of Las Hurdes is found at various sites across the region. Due to their number and unique characteristics, these engravings form a distinct group with its own identity within the post-Palaeolithic rock art of the Iberian Peninsula. The engravings are carved into outcrops of schist or slate at ground level, on smooth surfaces. They are usually oriented towards the north-west and north-east. These are generally located halfway up a hillside, near the course of a river or stream, or in prominent locations offering a commanding view of the surrounding area. The engravings were made using two techniques: pecking and, above all, more or less deep incisions made with metal tools, which are clearly identifiable because they have V-shaped grooves. The sites usually feature a small number of representations, although there are exceptions with panels containing a profusion of figures. There are certain characteristic figurative elements, such as horseshoe-shaped symbols, numerous human feet (known as ‘podomorphs’), agricultural tools such as sickles or pruning knives, weapons, and schematic human figures. Simple engravings featuring lines or geometric patterns have also been identified. Figurative elements are less common and always depict objects; animals or plants are never represented. When humans do appear, they are depicted only in a schematic manner.