La Motilla del Azuer of Daimiel

In the vast plain of the province of Ciudad Real, a silent testimony of the ancient Iberian civilization emerges: the Motilla del Azuer. The prehistoric site of Motilla del Azuer stands as a bridge between the past and the present, offering visitors a unique window to explore the life and culture of those who inhabited this region in ancient times. The Motilla del Azuer is located just a few kilometers from Daimiel, where you can end the day seeing its wonderful streets and monuments .

Roots in Iberian history

A bastion of Iberian antiquity
La Motilla del Azuer is a type of fortified settlement, known as a “motilla”, which flourished during the Bronze Age and Iron Age on the Iberian Peninsula. These structures, built from stone and adobe, represent an architectural milestone in the history of the region. La Motilla del Azuer in particular stands out for its complexity and its crucial role in understanding ancient Iberian society.
Architecture and urban organization
The layout of Motilla del Azuer reveals an urban planning that was advanced for its time. With defensive walls, narrow corridors and internal structures, it offers clues about the social organisation and daily life of its inhabitants. The layout of the houses and the presence of silos and warehouses suggest a well-structured agricultural community that took advantage of the resources of the fertile plain of the Azuer River.

Discoveries and buried treasures

Ceramics and everyday artifacts
Excavations at Motilla del Azuer have revealed a rich collection of pottery and everyday artefacts that provide valuable information about daily life in ancient Iberia. Vases, plates and utensils offer clues about the food customs and cultural practices of the community. This archaeological treasure has allowed researchers to reconstruct the material history of those who populated the Motilla.
The mysterious funerary world
La Motilla del Azuer is also home to necropolises that shed light on the beliefs and funerary practices of its inhabitants. Tombs with grave goods, ornaments and human remains reveal aspects of the spirituality and worldview of this ancient society. Archaeologists continue to unearth secrets buried for millennia, contributing to the mosaic of Iberian history.

How to see the Motilla del Azuer

Guided tours and educational experiences
Motilla del Azuer is open to the public, offering the opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s millennia-old history. Guided tours lead visitors through the archaeological remains, providing historical context and revealing fascinating details about life in the Motilla. Educational experiences, such as workshops and talks, enrich the visit, allowing visitors to connect more deeply with the past. To fully experience this area and not miss a single corner, we recommend that you purchase your tickets for Motilla del Azuer in advance.
Interpretation center
An essential addition to the visit is the Motilla del Azuer Interpretation Centre. Here, archaeological finds come to life through interactive exhibits, virtual recreations and educational material. The centre acts as a portal that transports visitors back to the time when the Motilla was at its peak, providing an immersive and educational experience.

Preserving the legacy of Motilla del Azuer for future generations

It is not only a tourist destination, but also an invaluable legacy that must be preserved for future generations. The importance of this site transcends the local, contributing to the global understanding of human evolution. Conservation and continued research are essential to unravel more buried secrets and enrich our understanding of ancient Iberian history.

In conclusion, Motilla del Azuer stands as a lasting testament to the cultural richness and complexity of ancient Iberian civilization. Through its stone walls and narrow passageways, it invites us to take a journey back in time and contemplate the lives of those who once called this astonishing fortress home. For those looking to immerse themselves in Spain’s millennia-old history, Motilla del Azuer is a must-see destination that continues to tell the story of times long gone by.

Elisa Negrete Espinosa

Elisa Negrete Espinosa es la directora y gerente del hotel Doña Manuela en Daimiel. Ha sido galardonada con el Premio Mujer Daimiel 2024 por su destacada labor empresarial y su compromiso con la formación y conciliación laboral de su equipo. Descrita como una mujer emprendedora, independiente y justa, Elisa es un ejemplo de liderazgo moderno y cercano. Este reconocimiento, propuesto por sus empleados y otorgado unánimemente, subraya su impacto positivo tanto en el ámbito profesional como en su comunidad.