Atapuerca archaeological site and centre
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Atapuerca - by Pablo Duenas on Google





Description
The archaeological site of Atapuerca yielded finds of human fossils and artefacts from a broad time range, from early humans to the Bronze Age. Three sites are open to group guided visits: the chasm of the Elephants where the oldest human remains in Europe have been unearthed (1.2mn years), the site of the Gallery (a natural trap through which animals fell) and La Grand Dolina. Note that the visit centres around the archaeological exploration process, the finds are exhibited in the Museum of Human Evolution in Burgos. The Center for Experimental Archaeology (CAREX) consists of dioramas and recreation of prehistoric life scenes with a focus about social life, hunting utensils, parietal art and other aspects of daily life.
Access & Transport
The sites are about 20km east of Burgos. The CAREX is in Atapuerca (Access from N-1 or N-120) and the CAYAC (Centro de Acceso a los Yacimientos) is along the N-120 in the village of Ibeas de Juarros. Our understanding is that there is a shuttle bus between the 2 locations and that departures are from CAREX.
Instructions & Recommendations
There is a slightly different opening times also shown on the website: 09 to 17h Mon-Sat and 09h-14h on Sunday. Pre-booking is necessary for the guided tours. Contact: (+34) 947 421 000 / reservasatapuerca@fundacionatapuerca.es
Environmental & Social
Mostly environmentally neutral with educational aspects
Conclusion
Atapuerca is without doubt a regional highlight but the slight logistical complexity and moving of the fossil and artefact finds to a museum within the city of Burgos means the guided tours of the sites and CAREX are best recommended to those with a keen interest in archaeology and/or human evolution.
Key positive
Guides are passionate and knowledgeable
Archaeological significance of the sites
Key negative
Not much to see at the sites
No easy online booking method
Suitability
Suitable for all ages. The sites do not seem to be accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:2h
Monday -
Tuesday09:30 - 17:30
Wednesday09:30 - 17:30
Thursday09:30 - 17:30
Friday09:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:30 - 17:30
Sunday09:30 - 15:00