Cenobio de Valeron is an impressive communal grain-store which was used by the ancient canarians. It demonstrates the importance of agriculture as the principal means of subsistence, and the social/political organisation of production.

How the Cenobio was made

Natural geological conditions had provided a volcanic cone, today known as Mt. Gallego, in which erosion had opened a large natural arch 20m high and 27m wide high on the north slope of the hill. Aborigines were able to convert the opening into a storage area helped by the soft inconsistent nature of the rock, composed of compacted volcanic pyroclasts known as toba or tosca, which was easily excavated.

The temperature and humidity in the cave were ideal for storing large quantities of grain and other produce essential to the aborigines. The caves were also strategically located on an easily defended sheer face not visible from outside, which made them a natural fortress against pirates arriving by sea in search of slaves, skins or grain, and raids by other groups.

Storage area

The cave was adapted for storage purposes by creating a complex system of chambers and silos organised on different levels.

Superimposed galleries were excavated into the back of the cave and numerous cavities of different shapes and sizes were dug into the floor and walls.

These silos were carefully carved out of the soft rock using wooden and stone implements, and were systematically arranged to create a storage space with over 300 nooks where grain and other produce or items of value could be kept.

To facilitate access to different levels steps were carved into the rock and ladders, scaffolds and ropes were also probably used

Silos

The chambers vary greatly in size and shape. Some are simple cubicles with a flat floor whilst others are much larger and complex, incorporating pigeon holes and different levels. Neighbouring chambers are often inter-connected by small openings. Evidence suggests that thorough preparation was required to convert the cave into a storage area. Walls and floors had to be levelled, smoothed and waterproofed and cracks repaired and sealed. Properly sealing and closing the internal compartments of the storage areas as well as the means of access was especially important.

Many silos present marks which show they had lids or doors, which were slotted into grooves carved in the rock. Lids were usually made of wood or stone slabs, or other materials such as skins or vegetable fibre. An ashy mortar was applied around the lid to keep the contents air tight. The same mortar was used to fill cracks and holes.