logo
ic_menu

Atapuerca archaeological site and centre

Camino del Pajarillo, Ibeas de Juarros, Castilla y León

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

Meta review

The site is designated UNESCO WHS so it comes with some high degree of expectations that are not always fulfilled according to online reviewers, primarily because there is little to see on the site beside excavation and scaffolding. So, the primary advice in reviews is to first visit the Museum of Human Evolution and then come here to enjoy the quality and passion of the guides that will convey the proper context of what you have seen earlier in the museum. As for CAREX, adults tend to find it a little boring and describe it as being targeted at children who will enjoy the interactive aspects. Some recurring comments on practical aspects: there should be a cafeteria at one of the two centres and logistically it would make more sense to have the reception at CAYAC.

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

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
These are the CAREX opening times

av. transport time:0h 30m

est. visit time:2h

Regulated hours

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

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€11
Adult
18 - 64
€11
Child
5 - 17
€9
Infant
0 - 4
€0
This is an estimate based on past information. It includes CAREX and the guided tour of the sites

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. For a complete overview of all cookies used, please see MORE INFORMATION.