Among the treasures, two objects stand out for their unique composition and origin. A gold-plated sword pommel and an open bracelet, both made of iron. A recent study by a team of researchers from the National Archaeological Museum, the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, and the Spanish National Research Council has shown that these iron objects were not made from terrestrial iron, but from iron that came from meteorites that fell to Earth. It became clear. Earth about 1 million years ago.
This image shows the pommel of an impressive sword found in the Villena treasury. This pommel is made from iron obtained from a meteorite and decorated with intricate gold inlays that form a fascinating four-pointed star motif. Source: REPERTORIO DIGITAL CSIC
The researchers used mass spectrometry to analyze traces of iron and nickel alloys in the object and confirmed that they matched the composition of iron meteorites. They also compared the object to other known meteoric iron artifacts from ancient cultures, such as the Egyptian dagger of Tutankhamun and the Inuit ur knife of Greenland.
The study, published in the journal Trabajos de Prehistoria, shows that these are the first and oldest iron meteorite objects discovered on the Iberian Peninsula, dating back to the Late Bronze Age (1400-1200 BC). It is suggested that it dates back to. Researchers also suggest that this iron was obtained from a meteorite that crashed near the treasure site, and that local people may have used it to make these prestigious and symbolic items. There is.
Presented here are some of Tesoro de Villena’s treasure troves. This is a bracelet made from meteorite-derived iron.
Source: MUSEO ARQUEOLÓGICO DE VILLENA
The fusion of gold and iron in these objects carries significant cultural and social value, as it represents the combination of two rare and precious materials from the earth and the sky. Researchers believe these items may have belonged to a community rather than an individual, and may have been hidden as treasure for protection or ritual purposes.
The discovery of these objects sheds new light on the Bronze Age history and culture of the Iberian Peninsula and reveals the existence of a metallurgical tradition using extraterrestrial materials. Questions also arise about the origin and meaning of the treasure, the manufacturing process, and the source of the materials.
Expanding
The Treasure of Villena stands as awe-inspiring evidence of Spain’s rich historical heritage and cultural diversity. This remarkable archaeological find, discovered in the city of Villena, not only demonstrates the artistic brilliance and metallurgical expertise of an ancient civilization, but also highlights humanity’s enduring fascination with the unknown and celestial bodies. . Through its intricate craftsmanship and exquisite design, this treasure reveals the cultural sophistication of ancient Spanish society and highlights the deep interaction between earthly civilization and the heavenly realms. As we marvel at its ornate jewelry and ceremonial objects, we are reminded of humanity’s deep connection to the universe and our age-old quest to understand its mysteries. The Treasure of Villena thus serves as a moving symbol of our shared human history and of the infinite wonders that lie beyond our earthly horizons.