Public archeology: Remedies, Navalvillar and Navalahija
Hispanic-Visigothic settlement in Colmenar Viejo
Remedios, Navalvillar and Navalahija
The archaeological excavations carried out at the Navalvillar and Navalahija sites were aimed at studying the settlement of the Madrid presierra during late antiquity. The suitability of starting said study in the dehesa de Navalvillar basically responded to the extraordinary density of archaeological sites existing in that area, such as those of Navalvillar, Navalahija and the mining enclaves called Complejo Minero I (Los Maderones) and Complejo Minero II (Las Gateras). ). The results obtained have contributed to improve the knowledge that was had about the settlement of this area near the Madrid mountains, at a time of profound socio-economic, political and religious changes. From the XNUMXth century after Christ, an occupation strategy began in the Upper Manzanares Basin, which adopted multiple forms in the exploitation of the territory, beyond the agricultural concept that had been the only model until now. The investigations carried out show that we are facing a colonization that acquired a strong density and pressure on this territory, exploiting its resources and developing, at least in the cases of Navalvillar and Navalahija, a strong mining-metallurgical imprint based on obtaining iron from the mineral called magnetite. The necropolis of Remedios for its part was the first spiritual landmark in the region.
Hundreds of volunteers have participated in the three colmenarean sites over the years, who with their generosity and effort have allowed these exceptional vestiges to be brought to light. At the end of each campaign, two Open Doors Days have been organized so that those who would like to know the project and its results, could do so in the hands of the directors and participants. Exhibitions have been prepared with the most relevant and significant materials. Audiovisuals, 3D reconstructions, annual conferences with conferences and debates on the progress of research and projects developed in the region and publications on heritage are, among others, some of the actions that have been carried out in recent years in Colmenar Viejo .
