Luis Duart Gallery

Luis Duart

Reverend Luis Duart Alabarta arrived in Benidorm on October 14, 1950, to serve as parish priest of the Church of San Jaime y Santa Ana. He remained in the city until his passing on January 3, 1983.

In addition to his exceptional pastoral duties, Father Duart's extensive humanistic education and deep affection for Benidorm led him to pursue research and investigations in two primary areas: archaeology and local and ecclesiastical history.

In the realm of archaeology, he made significant contributions to the understanding of one of the most important Roman sites in the Valencian Community: the Tossal de la Cala de Benidorm. His meticulous research resulted in the recovery of valuable archaeological artifacts, including the Tanit Goddess figurine.

Father Duart's contributions to local history include verifying the construction date of the Church of San Jaime y Santa Ana, as well as conducting studies on the discovery of the Virgen del Sufragio and the Carta Puebla de Benidorm, a medieval charter defining the town's rights and privileges.

Reverend Luis Duart Alabarta left an indelible mark on Benidorm, not only through his dedicated pastoral service but also through his insightful research and contributions to the city's rich history and archaeological heritage. His legacy continues to inspire and inform our understanding of Benidorm's past and its enduring significance.

 

Roman anchor

We stand before what is almost certainly the largest Roman anchor ever found in the waters of the Alicante province. Estimated to be around 2,000 years old, this lead anchor's impressive dimensions – 2.20 meters and 350 kilos – suggest it belonged to a large cargo ship capable of carrying around 2,000 amphorae of oil, wine, or salted goods destined for Rome. However, it is highly probable that this cargo never reached its intended destination, as the ship ultimately sank in the bay of Benidorm, apparently near l'Illa.

While we know its composition, measurements, and the type of vessel it belonged to, the identity of the individual who located and retrieved this anchor from the seabed remains a mystery. Likewise, the methods employed to extract such a massive piece from the depths and the exact timing of its recovery remain unknown. It must have occurred before June 1965, as a letter preserved in the Municipal Archive records the Ministry of Education requesting the Ayuntamiento to hand over the artifact to the Provincial Museum.

Ancient mariners, well-versed in the seasonal weather patterns of the Mediterranean Sea, divided the year into two distinct navigation periods: the mare apertum, or open sea, inaugurated with the Navigium Isidis ceremony described in Apuleius' "The Metamorphosis," and the mare clausum, or closed sea, during which navigation was not prohibited but generally avoided unless absolutely necessary. Commercial voyages took place almost exclusively between the months of March and October, coinciding with the year's most favorable season, and commenced with special ceremonies aimed at propitiating safe maritime passage.

The discovery of this colossal Roman anchor serves as a tangible link to the bustling maritime trade that once traversed the Mediterranean. Its silent presence beneath the waves for millennia speaks to the ingenuity and perseverance of ancient seafarers who braved the elements to connect distant shores. As we continue to explore the depths of our oceans, we can only hope to uncover more treasures that shed light on the rich tapestry of human history.

Drawing upon ancient written records and considering the locations of ancient ports and settlements, we can discern the various navigation systems employed during Roman times. These systems can be broadly categorized into three types:

 

1. . Coastal Navigation (Navigatio Brevis or Tabularum)

This method involved anchoring each night, navigating within sight of coastlines and between nearby inhabited settlements. It was typically used for shorter voyages along familiar routes, often involving the transport of goods or passengers.

2. Extended Coastal Navigation (Navigatio per Sinum)

Similar to coastal navigation, extended coastal navigation did not involve intermediate stops. However, it encompassed longer voyages along established routes, often connecting major ports and cities within the Mediterranean region.

3. Open-Sea Navigation (Navigatio Alta)

Open-sea navigation involved long-distance voyages venturing far from coastlines and often reaching destinations far removed from the departure port. This method required advanced navigational techniques, such as celestial navigation using the stars, and a deeper understanding of wind patterns and currents.

These three navigation systems – coastal, extended coastal, and open-sea – formed the backbone of Roman maritime trade and exploration. Each method was tailored to specific voyage lengths, routes, and cargo types, enabling the Romans to establish a vast network of sea connections that spanned the Mediterranean and beyond. As we continue to study ancient texts and archaeological remains, we gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and skill of Roman seafarers who navigated the vast expanse of the Mediterranean, connecting civilizations and shaping the course of history.

Roman Naval Technology

Roman naval technology was a culmination of influences and advancements, drawing upon the shipbuilding traditions of various Mediterranean cultures, notably the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Carthaginians. Roman shipbuilders often refined existing designs, incorporating new technological discoveries to enhance the performance and capabilities of their vessels.

While some exceptions existed, Roman ships generally did not exceed a length of 40 meters. Instead, they favored medium to small-sized vessels, with an average length of around 16.9 meters. This preference for smaller ships likely stemmed from practical considerations, such as maneuverability, construction costs, and the availability of suitable timber resources.

Despite the prevalence of smaller vessels, archaeological evidence suggests that larger ships were also employed in Roman maritime trade, particularly in the Tarraconensis region. The discovery of massive lead anchors, for instance, hints at the existence of substantial merchant ships capable of transporting significant quantities of goods across vast distances.

Roman naval technology embodied a blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting the empire's ability to adapt and improve upon existing shipbuilding practices. While smaller vessels dominated Roman fleets, the presence of larger ships in certain regions highlights the diversity and adaptability of Roman maritime technology. As we continue to explore and study ancient shipwrecks and archaeological remains, we gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Roman shipbuilders who played a crucial role in shaping the empire's maritime power and economic prosperity.

Unveiling the Anatomy of a Roman Anchor

The Roman anchor, a marvel of ancient maritime engineering, played a pivotal role in the empire's extensive trade networks and naval prowess. Its intricate design, honed over centuries of experience, ensured the safe mooring of vessels, enabling them to navigate the vast expanse of the Mediterranean Sea. Let's embark on a journey to decipher the nomenclature of this remarkable artifact, unraveling its components and their significance.

At the heart of the anchor lies the "caña," the sturdy central column that provides the anchor's structural integrity. This robust shaft serves as the foundation upon which the anchor's arms, known as "brazos," are firmly attached, forming the crucial "cruz," or cross.

The anchor's effectiveness hinges upon its "uña," the sharp, pointed tip of each arm. This formidable claw, often reinforced with a detachable "pico" made of iron, pierces the seabed, securing the anchor firmly in place. The rarity of complete "picos" underscores the harsh conditions they faced, often succumbing to erosion and corrosion.

Ensuring the cohesion of the anchor's arms and the cruz is the "zuncho," a crucial metallic element. This reinforcing band, typically crafted by directly casting lead around the interconnected pieces, safeguards the anchor's structural integrity, preventing it from succumbing to the stresses and strains of anchoring.

Providing the anchor with its immense anchoring force is the "cepo," a heavy lead weight situated at the base of the caña. This substantial component, once positioned horizontally on the seabed, ensures that the anchor's arms remain at a 90-degree angle, with one arm perpetually pointing downwards. The cepo's weight, acting like a plow, drives the uña deep into the seabed, providing a secure hold.

Within the cepo of the Roman anchor lies a critical element concealed within the "cajera," the junction of the "apéndices." This mechanism, akin to a pin or chain stop, passes through an orifice in the caña, preventing the cepo from sliding or rotating along the shaft. This ingenious design ensures the anchor's stability and prevents the cepo from compromising the anchor's effectiveness.

The Roman anchor, with its intricate design and well-defined components, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of ancient mariners. Its ability to secure vessels amidst the unpredictable forces of the sea proved instrumental in shaping the course of maritime history. As we continue to explore the depths of our oceans and uncover remnants of ancient shipwrecks, we gain a deeper appreciation for the technological marvels that enabled civilizations to traverse vast expanses of water, connecting cultures and fostering global trade.

The Archaeological Site of L'Abric de la Cantera

Nestled amidst the Serra Gelada mountain range in Benidorm, Spain, lies the L'Abric de la Cantera archaeological site, a treasure trove of human history dating back an astonishing 25,000 years. This remarkable discovery, far surpassing initial estimates of 10,000 years, rewrites the region's narrative and firmly establishes L'Abric de la Cantera as one of the oldest sites in the Alicante province, potentially holding the title of the oldest in the Marina Baixa region.

Excavations conducted under the auspices of the Benidorm City Council in early 2011 unearthed a wealth of artifacts that shed light on the lives of these ancient inhabitants. Their tools, crafted from flint, hint at their hunting prowess, particularly their pursuit of rabbits. Evidence of snail consumption further highlights their resourceful approach to sustenance. The site also reveals a shared ecosystem with diverse fauna, including goats, horses, deer, and aurochs (an extinct wild cattle species). Among the notable faunal remains are the jawbone of an ancient bull and the hoof of a wild horse.

The abundance of mollusk shells unearthed during the excavations provides compelling evidence that snails have been a culinary staple in the region for millennia. Beyond animal remains and flint artifacts, analyses of L'Abric de la Cantera have also revealed the presence of now-extinct flora in the surrounding environment, such as the 'pinus negral,' a species that thrived during the glacial period.

The most intriguing discovery lies in three seashells meticulously crafted into adornments, reminiscent of similar artifacts found at the Cova Beneito site in Muro de Alcoy. This remarkable find suggests the existence of "exchange circuits and social networks" connecting these two ancient settlements.

Studies have also established that the shoreline during this era lay approximately 25 kilometers away, and climatic conditions were significantly colder than today, characterized by extreme temperatures and humidity.

The L'Abric de la Cantera archaeological site stands as a testament to the enduring human presence in the region, offering a glimpse into their ingenuity, resourcefulness, and interconnectedness with the natural world. As research continues to unravel the mysteries of this ancient site, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human history that has unfolded in this remarkable corner of Spain.

The Bronze Age

The Bronze Age, spanning approximately 2,200 to 1,100 BC, marked a pivotal era in the region's history, characterized by a shift in settlement patterns, architectural advancements, and evolving social dynamics.

A notable transformation during the Bronze Age was the relocation of settlements from their earlier low-lying locations to elevated positions on hills or ridges. This strategic move served several purposes. Firstly, it provided a commanding view of the surrounding landscape, enhancing security and surveillance. Secondly, it fostered a sense of territorial control and identity, reinforcing the boundaries of communities.

The adoption of stone architecture further solidified this sense of permanence and security. Sturdy stone structures replaced earlier, more ephemeral dwellings, offering greater protection from the elements and potential adversaries. This architectural transition reflected a growing emphasis on stability and community cohesion.

The Bronze Age witnessed a gradual shift towards a more hierarchical social organization. The increasing prosperity generated by trade and agricultural advancements led to the emergence of a wealthier elite, marking the beginnings of social stratification. These elites likely assumed leadership roles, wielding influence and power within their communities.

The Bronze Age saw a significant surge in population, driven by the enhanced productivity of agriculture and livestock rearing. This demographic growth, however, brought with it new challenges. Increased competition for resources and territorial disputes led to tensions and conflicts between communities.

The Bronze Age stands as a transformative era in the region's history, marked by a shift in settlement patterns, advancements in architecture, and the emergence of a more hierarchical social structure. The increasing prosperity of this period, while fueling population growth, also introduced new challenges, such as intercommunal conflicts. As we continue to explore and study the remnants of this remarkable epoch, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that shaped the region's cultural and societal landscape.

The “Tossal de la Cala”

Nestled along the Iberian coastline, the Tossal de la Cala stands as a testament to the region's rich history, revealing its pivotal role in Roman military strategy during the 1st century BC. The site's archaeological excavations, spanning from the mid-20th century to the present day, have unearthed a wealth of artifacts and insights, shedding light on the fortin's construction, purpose, and the surrounding landscape.

The Tossal de la Cala's archaeological journey began in 1943 when Father Belda conducted the first systematic excavations. This initial exploration uncovered 27 rooms adjoined to the fortin's wall. However, in 1956, a significant portion of the site was destroyed to make way for the construction of a road leading to the viewpoint. Undeterred by this setback, archaeologists Miquel Tarradell and Alejandro Ramos launched an emergency intervention, salvaging as much information as possible and excavating the rooms currently situated to the left of the access road.

Despite its inclusion among the notable sites of Iberian Contestania, the Tossal de la Cala faced a period of neglect, falling victim to illegal excavations and urban development pressures.

In 2010, the Tossal de la Cala regained attention under the auspices of research and development projects undertaken by a group of professors from the University of Alicante's Department of Archaeology. The assemblage of findings revealed an unusual proportion of Italic pottery, including amphorae, kitchenware, tableware, and oil lamps. Additionally, metal artifacts pointed to the presence of Roman military equipment, complemented by bone styli, bronze surgical probes, and coins.

From 2013 onwards, annual excavation campaigns were dedicated to documenting and interpreting the structures unearthed in the 1940s and 1950s. These efforts confirmed the site's identity as a fortin or castellum, capable of housing at least two Roman centuries.

Driven by the commitment of the Benidorm City Council, the Tossal de la Cala underwent a comprehensive restoration process, adhering to European heritage conservation standards. This meticulous work paved the way for the site's eventual transformation into an archaeological park.

Between 82 and 72 BC, Hispania served as the stage for the first Roman Civil Wars. Quinto Sertorius, a leader of the Popular faction, established a network of fortins along the northern Alicante coast to monitor the movement of enemy ships. The Tossal de la Cala was strategically chosen due to its commanding view over the bay and the presence of a cove at its base suitable for mooring small vessels.

The fortin's fortifications consisted of a wall measuring only 1 meter in width at its base, constructed from stone and tapial (mudbrick). However, the perpendicular walls of the interior rooms interlocked with the main wall to form a solid defensive block up to 5 meters thick. These rooms could have functioned as compartments or casemates in case of an attack.

The fortin featured a single street running from east to west. The buildings lining this street comprised two-story rooms connected by stairs. Doors and thresholds served as distinguishing features, with alternating colored gravel marking the entrances. In a typical Roman-Republican fortin, these buildings would have served as living quarters for soldiers and officers, storage spaces, workshops, and even a hospital.

Among the excavated rooms, Room 29 stands out as a probable amphora storage area, while Room 30 hints at the presence of a lead smelting workshop. These findings offer tantalizing clues about the daily activities and logistical operations that took place within the fortin's walls.

The Tossal de la Cala, with its rich archaeological heritage, stands as a testament to the strategic significance of the Iberian coastline during the Roman era. Its ongoing excavations continue to unravel the secrets of this remarkable site, providing invaluable insights into Roman military strategies, construction techniques, and the lives of the soldiers who garrisoned this remote outpost. As research progresses, the Tossal de la Cala promises to further enrich our understanding of this pivotal chapter in Mediterranean history.

Life of a Soldier in the Fortines

The Roman army, renowned for its discipline and effectiveness, was built upon the foundations of its smallest unit: the contubernium. This group of eight soldiers, sharing a tent and a set of duties, formed the cornerstone of Roman military life. Their days were filled with a constant cycle of tasks and obligations, ensuring the smooth functioning of the army and its readiness for combat.

As the first rays of dawn pierced the darkness, the contubernium would stir from their slumber. The morning routine began with a simple breakfast, typically consisting of porridge or bread, accompanied by a ration of wine or water. Once fortified, the soldiers would embark on their daily tasks, assigned with the utmost precision and a strict adherence to discipline.

A portion of the contubernium would be tasked with guard duty, a crucial responsibility that ensured the safety and security of the camp. These soldiers would take turns patrolling the perimeter, keeping a watchful eye for any signs of enemy activity or potential threats. They would also man observation posts, scanning the surrounding landscape for any suspicious movements. This constant vigilance was paramount to the camp's survival, as any lapse in attention could allow an enemy to infiltrate and launch a surprise attack.

While the threat of enemy attack was ever-present, the contubernium's duties extended beyond mere defense. A significant portion of their time was dedicated to training and honing their combat skills. Under the watchful eyes of experienced officers, they would engage in drills, practice maneuvers, and sharpen their weapons. These rigorous training sessions were essential for maintaining the army's edge in battle and ensuring the soldiers' readiness for any confrontation.

The contubernium's responsibilities extended beyond the battlefield and into the daily upkeep of the camp. They would be involved in tasks such as maintaining the camp's fortifications, cleaning the living quarters, and preparing meals for their fellow soldiers. They may also have been involved in tasks related to the camp's self-sufficiency, such as tending to livestock or growing crops in small gardens. These diverse duties were crucial for the camp's smooth operation and the well-being of its occupants.

The contubernium, the smallest unit of the Roman army, played a vital role in the empire's military success. Their unwavering discipline, dedication to duty, and willingness to sacrifice for their comrades formed the bedrock of the Roman legion's strength. Their daily lives, filled with a constant cycle of tasks, training, and vigilance, were a testament to their commitment to the empire's security and the preservation of its borders. The contubernium's legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of teamwork, discipline, and unwavering dedication in achieving collective goals.

Maintaining the Castellum

The preservation of the fortin, a small Roman fort, was an essential undertaking that required a diverse range of skills and expertise. Beyond the presence of soldiers, the fortin's upkeep relied on a team of craftsmen, specialists, and support personnel, each contributing their unique talents to ensure the fort's functionality and the well-being of its occupants.

Carpenters played a crucial role in maintaining the fortin's wooden structures, from repairing gates and doors to constructing new furniture or storage units. Their skills were essential for ensuring the fort's structural integrity and the comfort of its inhabitants.

Masons, the experts in stonework, were responsible for maintaining the fortin's walls, towers, and foundations. Their vigilance was crucial in identifying and addressing any cracks, erosion, or other damage that could compromise the fort's defenses.

Blacksmiths, the masters of metalwork, were tasked with keeping the fortin's weapons, armor, and tools in top condition. Their craftsmanship was essential for ensuring the soldiers' readiness for battle and the smooth functioning of daily tasks.

Beyond the realm of physical maintenance, the fortin relied on individuals with specialized skills to maintain the well-being of its occupants and ensure the smooth running of daily life.

Physicians, with their knowledge of medicine and healing practices, were responsible for caring for the sick and wounded. Their presence was crucial in preventing the spread of diseases and ensuring the recovery of injured soldiers.

Scribes, with their literacy and administrative skills, were tasked with drafting official letters, maintaining records, and keeping track of the fortin's supplies. Their work was essential for communication, organization, and the efficient management of resources.

The daily operations of the fortin required the dedication of individuals who performed essential tasks that contributed to the overall well-being of the garrison.

Stable hands tended to the fortin's horses and other animals, ensuring their health and providing transportation for soldiers and supplies. Their work was crucial for maintaining the fortin's mobility and logistical capabilities.

Storekeepers managed the fortin's supplies, ensuring that food, provisions, and other necessities were available to the soldiers. Their careful inventory and management skills were essential for preventing shortages and maintaining a well-stocked fortin.

Water carriers were responsible for transporting water from the nearest source to the fortin, ensuring a steady supply for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. Their daily task was essential for the survival of the garrison, particularly in arid environments.

Despite the constant demands of maintaining and defending the fortin, soldiers and other occupants found moments of leisure and relaxation amidst their busy schedules. The discovery of gaming tokens during archaeological excavations suggests that games, such as dice or board games, provided a welcome respite from the rigors of daily life.

The preservation of the fortin was not merely the responsibility of soldiers; it was a collaborative effort that required the combined skills and dedication of a diverse range of individuals. From artisans and craftsmen to specialists in healthcare and administration, each member of the fortin's community played a vital role in ensuring its functionality, the well-being of its occupants, and ultimately, its ability to withstand the challenges and threats of life on the Roman frontier.

Diet

The diet of a Roman soldier was not a monotonous affair, but rather a diverse array of provisions that fueled their strength and stamina. While the specific ingredients varied depending on location and availability, three staples remained constant: cereal, primarily wheat, sour wine,

Cereal, with wheat as the preferred grain, formed the bedrock of the Roman soldier's diet. This nutrient-rich staple provided the carbohydrates essential for sustained energy during long marches, intense training, and battles. Soldiers typically consumed their wheat in the form of porridge or bread, prepared using simple cooking techniques over open fires or in portable camp ovens.

Sour wine, known as posca, was an integral part of the Roman soldier's daily rations. This diluted vinegar-based beverage served multiple purposes, quenching thirst, providing a source of calories, and aiding digestion. Additionally, posca was believed to have medicinal properties, offering relief from stomach ailments and acting as a disinfectant.

Olive oil, a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, played a multifaceted role in the life of a Roman soldier. It served as a cooking ingredient, adding flavor and richness to their meals. Beyond its culinary applications, olive oil was used for lighting lamps and torches, providing illumination in their tents and during nighttime activities. Furthermore, olive oil found practical use in maintaining their leather and metal equipment, protecting it from wear and tear.

The preparation of meals was a communal endeavor, with each contubernium, a group of eight soldiers, sharing a cooking area and responsibilities. Using portable cooking utensils like pots, pans, and skillets, soldiers would prepare their daily rations, ensuring they were adequately fueled for the demands of military life.

In conclusion, the diet of a Roman soldier was a carefully balanced blend of essential staples and diverse provisions, reflecting the practical and cultural influences of the Roman world. These nutritious meals provided the soldiers with the energy, stamina, and overall well-being necessary to fulfill their duties and defend the Roman Empire.

Salary

Within the walls of these fortines, a tangible link to the past lies scattered amidst the ruins – Roman and Iberian coins. These remnants of a bygone era offer a glimpse into the economic and military dynamics of life in these remote outposts.

The majority of the coins unearthed from these fortines are bronze asses and their smaller subdivisions, known as semis and quadrans. These coins, with their distinctive markings and worn surfaces, bear witness to the daily transactions and economic activities of the fortín's inhabitants.

Silver denarii, the most valued coins in the Roman monetary system, are found in smaller numbers within these fortines. Their scarcity suggests that larger transactions were less frequent, reflecting the relatively self-sufficient nature of these outposts.

Alongside the coins, lead tesserae, or tokens, bearing military markings, have also been discovered. These tesserae, often issued to soldiers, served as a form of identification and could also be used as makeshift currency.

The coins unearthed from these fortines originated from both Roman and Iberian mints. Roman asses, bearing the distinctive symbols of the Republic, were likely issued centrally and distributed to the troops. Iberian coins, produced by local cities under Roman control, reflect the integration of these regions into the Roman monetary system.

The minting of Iberian coins during this period was not always voluntary. Some cities were forced by the Romans to issue coinage, primarily to finance the ongoing Sertorian War, a conflict that raged across the Iberian Peninsula in the 1st century BC.

The coins found within these fortines date back to the 2nd century BC, extending into the early 1st century BC. Their presence, alongside ceramic fragments and military artifacts, suggests that these fortines were occupied and utilized during the Sertorian War.

The significant wear and tear evident on the Roman asses, particularly, indicates that these coins circulated for an extended period. This wear patterns suggests that these coins were not merely commemorative pieces but rather actively used in everyday transactions within the fortines.

These coins, issued to pay the troops and circulating within the fortines, served as the lifeblood of the local economy. Soldiers used their coins to purchase goods and services from local merchants, fostering economic exchange and supporting the surrounding communities.

The discovery of these Roman and Iberian coins within the fortines provides a tangible connection to the lives of soldiers and the economic realities of the Sertorian War. These coins, with their worn surfaces and diverse origins, offer a unique window into the daily transactions, military activities, and broader economic dynamics that shaped life within these remote outposts.

Benidorm Castle: A Historical Overview and Archaeological Insights

Historical Background

Benidorm's origins can be traced back to the Charter of Population granted by Admiral Bernat de Sarriá on May 8, 1325. This charter established the urban center and castle on the Punta del Canfali, a promontory jutting into the sea between the city's two beaches (Levante and Poniente).

For centuries, Benidorm Castle endured pirate attacks, leading to the abandonment of the town and the gradual deterioration of its defenses. The worst assault occurred in August 1447 when the Tunisian fleet attacked the city and captured all its inhabitants. In the 16th century, the Italian engineer Juan Bautista Antonelli proposed, without success, to improve the castle's defenses and provide it with a larger military garrison.

On April 8, 1666, the Lady of Benidorm, Beatriz Fajardo de Mendoza, again granted a new Charter of Population, ordering the improvement of the castle walls and the mandatory residence of forty families.

During the 18th century, increased maritime security and the occupation of flatter areas led to the gradual abandonment of the castle and the old town.

During the Peninsular War, Benidorm Castle, occupied by Napoleonic troops, was bombarded and almost completely destroyed by the English army.

The 1928 remodeling of the castle completely altered its appearance, retaining only the name. It was then that the balustrade was added, which over time has become its most characteristic feature.

Archaeological Intervention

The archaeological intervention carried out in 2019 at Benidorm Castle has made it possible to understand the material reality of this defensive site, of which practically until now there was only news through written and documentary sources as it was dismantled and covered by the pavement and other elements of the Plaza del Castell.

One of the main conclusions that have been drawn is the concordance between these written sources and the archaeological record, with a fairly faithful correspondence between the historical evolution narrated in the sources and the phases documented during the excavation.

One of the pieces of information that this intervention has provided, and which until now had only been suggested as a possibility, is the presence of human beings on this site prior to the foundation of the castle in the 14th century. The extent of this occupation is unknown, but it can be affirmed that there was some activity in this place from at least the 13th century.

Since its foundation in the 14th century, the castle has undergone four notable periods:

• The conditioning of the Punta del Canfali to create a habitable surface on which to establish the castle, the construction of an external defensive line documented at several points in the East, South, and West, as well as an interior courtyard with a cistern delimited by several rooms whose configuration will be maintained throughout the life of the castle, the walls that form them on the outside experiencing multiple repairs and reforms due to the passage of time and the periodic attacks that the fortress will suffer until the 19th century.
• A period of major reforms in the 16th century, in which the castle is fortified to withstand the harshest attacks of the war machines of this time, focusing this strengthening of the defensive structures mainly on the side of its connection with land, with the construction of several walls of considerable thickness, with part of their route sloped and buttresses, as has been documented especially on the West side, as well as the construction of a polygonal tower, equipped with its own cistern, in the northwest corner of the fortified enclosure. It is also important to note that this seems to be the time when there was the most activity in the castle, as the ceramic material datable to this period is by far the most abundant.
• Likewise, a period is noteworthy, between the 18th-19th centuries, in which the castle undergoes a restructuring of the central-north interior space, in which a rectangular diaphanous space is conditioned, patio-plaza, with perimeter channels for water collection. We do not know if the configuration of this space was similar in previous centuries, since the interior stratigraphy of this patio-plaza has been lost due to a general emptying of this point in the 20th century to condition a garden space. What can be said is that the perimeter walls that have been preserved delimiting this place correspond to this period.
• Finally, with the loss of the castle's defensive function at the end of the 19th century, the amortization of the moat as an occupation space is noteworthy, constructing several walls that subdivide its layout to make it habitable, and, finally, the massive contribution of land for the construction of the viewpoint, filling the northwest corner with land from a nearby burial site, which has allowed the recovery of skeletalized anthropological remains without anatomical connection corresponding to a minimum number of 32 individuals."