
Although less known than the Cenobio de Valerón the island has several other collective grain stores of great archaeological interest. These demonstrate how important agricultural production was in the economy of the early settlers and help us understand how society and political life was organised.
Near the village of Temisa, Pósito caves are part of a large complex where dwellings and funeral caves are found along with those dedicated to storage. The location of the grain stores was carefully chosen.
These are a group of silos created in the walls and floor of a large artificial cavity. The original entrance was by means of rock steps over a sheer drop. Recently, a new entrance was opened.
Found on the left side of the valley of the same name, this complex consists of dwelling caves and a grain store.
Taking advantage of a natural archway, silos and containers were dug out to create a storage area organised on three levels, connected by stone steps and pathways. Around twenty silos are well preserved.
These present rims carves into the rock to allow them to be sealed, remains of mortar and even evidence of a reddish paint where they would have been sealed. However, as many were damaged or disappeared completely as a result of rock falls, it is difficult to estimate how many originally existed.
Found on the left side of the valley of the same name, this complex consists of dwelling caves and a grain store. Taking advantage of a natural archway, silos and containers were dug out to create a storage area organised on three levels, connected by stone steps and pathways. Around twenty silos are well preserved. These present rims carves into the rock to allow them to be sealed, remains of mortar and even evidence of a reddish paint where they would have been sealed. However, as many were damaged or disappeared completely as a result of rock falls, it is difficult to estimate how many originally existed.
A group of cave dwellings with a communal grain store located at the head of Draguillo valley. In typical fashion, an inaccessible location was chosen to deter raids. A complex of twenty silos communicates with a second store via a 4m long passageway.
Located on Mt.Bermeja, also known as Cuatro Puertas (Four Doors). As was usual, the grain store was part of a larger complex, integrating dwellings and places for ceremonial or ritual practices.
This is an artificial cave, practically hidden from view, reached by rock paths on a sheer rock face. It could be reached both from the top and the foot of the hill.
Several dwelling caves with an adjoining store are found within Bandama basin. The store was made in a large natural cave, the walls of which have been dug out to create silos.
The only entrance is by means of a narrow opening which was easily closed off to bar access.
This site has several interesting features. There are remains of paint on the walls and engravings of libico-berber alphabetic symbols.
La Mesa de Acusa is in the mountainous region of the island. It was an important settlement where cave dwellings and stores are found alongside burial caves.
Of special interest is the storage space known as Granero Del Alamo.
Numerous silos have been excavated both into the walls and the floor of this large natural overhang, which was chosen for its strategic position.
Located on the left side of Agaete valley in Roque Bermejo.
The settlement consists of dwellings and stores with burial caves nearby, which no longer contain remains. Once again, the strategic position commanded a panoramic view whilst being easily defended.
The settlement had several silos, today virtually inaccessible due to rock falls.
Cenobio de Valerón © 2008