Phoenician colony in southeast Spain re-examined

Seeking metal

The fortified site, was one of several that dotted the coastline of Spain, as traders sought the precious tin and other metals that could be obtained at the end of the known world. The peaceful abandonment of the settlement occurred around 700 BCE and, pending further research, may be due partially to the gradual silting up of the Segura estuary or even a succession of seismic events.

The data suggest that the population of Cabezo Pequeño del Estany moved to a larger location, on the seafront itself, which is now known as La Fonteta and lies preserved beneath the sand dunes of Guardamar.

Phoenician colonisation of this area is interesting as it is one of the few sites to be contained within a defensive wall such as is visible from the aerial images. In addition to the normal range of materials, such as pottery and Greek lamps, there is also ostrich shell, ivory and Egyptian scarabs.
Potential for steel working

However, the exceptional find is that of early metallurgical activity, not only involving tin and bronze working but potentially, steel.

Both the University of Alicante and the Archaeological Museum of Guardamar are now contemplating conducting future archaeological excavations at Cabezo Pequeño to better understand the activities of these early trading colonists.

Source: University of Alicante
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Phoenicians in Spain
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University of Alicante. Phoenician colony in southeast Spain re-examined. Past Horizons. March 30, 2014, from http://www.pasthorizonspr.com/index.php/archives/03/2014/phoenician-colony-in-southeast-spain-re-examined