Numantia Archaeological Site
Castilla y León
Numantia is an ancient Celtiberian hill fort located on Cerro de la Muela near Garray in Castilla y León, Spain. It was a strategic settlement controlling a crossing of the Duero river and inhabited by the Arevaci tribe, formed by Iberians and migrating Celts. Numantia is most renowned for its prolonged and heroic resistance during the Celtiberian Wars against Roman conquest. The conflict began seriously in 153 BC, culminating in a brutal siege led by Scipio Aemilianus in 134-133 BC, where the Numantians chose mass suicide over surrender. The siege involved a 9 km Roman encirclement with fortifications and towers. After the destruction, the site saw continued occupation with a Roman street plan but no major public buildings. The settlement declined by the 3rd century AD but evidence suggests Visigothic presence in the 6th century. Excavations since the 19th century have revealed Roman camps and Celtiberian remains, with ongoing archaeological work. The site is symbolically important in Spanish culture, epitomizing resistance and freedom, and is commemorated in literature and local heritage. Visitors today can explore the archaeological remains and enjoy guided tours and digital audioguides offered on site.
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Astuce: For the best experience, it is recommended to book guided tours in advance through the official website, especially during peak seasons. The site offers digital audioguides that can be used without reservation until one hour before closing. Visitors should arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour time and be prepared for weather conditions as tours may be suspended in adverse weather. Tickets include guided services and can be purchased online up to 30 minutes before the tour start time. Group reservations are available by contacting the site directly.
Faits intéressants
- •The siege of Numantia involved a 9 km Roman fortification line with towers, moats, and palisades.
- •Numantia's inhabitants chose mass suicide over surrender after a 13-month siege by Rome.
- •The term "numantine resistance" is used to describe stubborn and heroic resistance in Spanish culture.
- •Miguel de Cervantes wrote a famous play, "El cerco de Numancia," about the siege.
- •The Sorian football team CD Numancia is named after the ancient city.
Histoire
Numantia's origins date back to the Chalcolithic period or early Bronze Age around 1800-1700 BC.
It developed as a Celtiberian settlement inhabited by the Arevaci tribe from the 6th century BC.
The site first clashed seriously with Rome in 153 BC during the Celtiberian Wars.
After decades of conflict, the Roman Senate tasked Scipio Aemilianus with destroying Numantia, leading to a famous siege in 134-133 BC.
The inhabitants resisted fiercely, ultimately choosing suicide over surrender.
Following its destruction, Numantia was repopulated and saw Roman occupation with a planned street layout.
The city declined in the 3rd century AD and was likely abandoned by the 4th century, though Visigothic presence is evident in the 6th century.
The exact location was lost until rediscovered in the 19th century, leading to archaeological excavations and its designation as a national monument.
Guide du lieu
Archaeological Site of NumantiaIron Age (6th century BC - 1st century BC)
Explore the remains of the Celtiberian hill fort including defensive walls, dwellings, and the layout of the ancient settlement on Cerro de la Muela. Visitors can see the ruins that testify to the fierce resistance against Rome.
Roman Siege Works134-133 BC
Remnants of the Roman siege fortifications including the extensive 9 km barrier with towers, moats, and palisades constructed by Scipio Aemilianus during the final siege of Numantia.
Contact
Téléphone: 650 70 96 71
