Los Millares in Almeria: New Archaeological Research Phase Announced

Published September 22, 2025 | Category: Community

Los Millares, Almeria’s world-renowned Copper Age settlement, enters a new research phase with the University of Granada leading excavations and public outreach.

New archaeological phase at Los Millares begins

Los Millares, located in the valley of the Andarax near Santa Fe de Mondújar, is once again at the centre of archaeological attention. The Junta de Andalucía has approved an investment of €695,000 to push forward new excavation and research projects across the region. Among the top priorities is the Copper Age settlement of Los Millares, one of Europe’s most important sites for understanding early metallurgical societies.

The new phase will be led by the University of Granada, under the framework of the regional “Planes Generales de Investigación”. According to regional culture minister Patricia del Pozo, these agreements allow progress in scientific work while combining research with public outreach and education.

Why Los Millares matters

Dating back over 5,000 years, Los Millares is considered the cradle of Europe’s Copper Age culture. The site includes extensive fortifications, collective tombs, and evidence of early metal production, making it a key reference point for the study of prehistoric Europe. Its strategic location in Almeria highlights the province’s role in ancient trade networks and cultural development.

Educational and public outreach

Beyond excavation, the programme also promotes cultural diffusion. School visits, museum collaborations, and public presentations are part of the initiative. On 18 September, the II Conference on Archaeological Research Projects was held at the Museum of Málaga, showcasing the latest findings not only from Los Millares but also from other Andalusian sites such as Ategua, Madinat al-Zahra, and Puente Tablas.

This continuity builds on last year’s edition at the Iberian Museum in Jaén, where research progress at Almeria’s Alcazaba was also presented. The ultimate aim is to strengthen scientific knowledge and raise public awareness of Andalusia’s cultural heritage as an essential part of its identity.

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