Mallorca’s Past

16 Sept

A submerged bridge unlocks the secret to the island’s first settlers

Coming to the island to relax is a great thing, but you can also discover the huge cultural treasure of the island’s past. Why not adventure to Mallorca’s caves and archeological digs to find out more about its history?

There is for example an underwater cave that unearthed an interesting piece of Mallorca’s past for researchers.

The Hams caves (Cuevas Dels Hams) are on the east coast of Mallorca, just 1 km of the town of Porto Cristo.

An underwater Bridge

Inside the Genovesa Cave the underwater bridge has been meticulously analysed, revealing that humans inhabited Mallorca, one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean, far earlier than previously believed. This discovery could significantly narrow the gap between the estimated arrival times of humans in the eastern and western Mediterranean regions.

A study published in the journal Communications Earth & Environment details the findings, which suggest the bridge was built approximately 6,000 years ago. This estimate was made possible by analyzing a "bathtub ring" and mineral formations on the bridge, providing valuable clues about the cave's water levels and the timeline of human activity.

The submerged bridge, constructed from large limestone blocks, likely served as a dry pathway connecting the cave's entrance to a chamber beyond a lake. Its existence indicates a sophisticated level of engineering and planning by early settlers, who recognised the cave's importance as a water source and strategically built infrastructure to access it.

You can also explore underwater caves with the island's experts...

The Real Treasure

Researchers believe that the bridge was used for several centuries before rising sea levels eventually covered it. By studying the bridge's geological features and reconstructing historical sea levels, scientists were able to determine its age and the time period when it was likely used.

While the exact purpose of the cave and the bridge remains a subject of ongoing research, it is clear that they played a significant role in the lives of Mallorca's early inhabitants. Pottery and fossil remains within the cave suggest that humans may have used the area as a place of residence, storage, or ritual.

The real treasure of this groundbreaking find is that it offers valuable insights into the history of human settlement in the Mediterranean and provides a tangible connection to our ancestors who lived thousands of years ago. As researchers continue to explore the secrets of Genovesa Cave and other archaeological sites, we can expect to uncover even more fascinating details about the ancient world on the island.

LA FINCA

The perfect Starting Point

Our Finca is the perfect starting point for exploring Mallorca's history due to its unique blend of cultural influences and architectural details. The villa's intricate woodwork, hand-painted ceilings, and exotic accessories offer a glimpse into the island's rich heritage. Its prime location in Llubi provides easy access to historic sites, museums, and traditional villages, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Mallorca's past while enjoying the luxury and tranquility of this stunning property.