MADRID.- A remarkable discovery is now on display at the National Archaeological Museum (MAN) in Madrid: the first-ever sculpted human faces of the ancient Tartessian civilization. The exhibition, “Faces of Turuñuelo,” showcases five stunning stone reliefs, offering a rare glimpse into a culture previously believed to be aniconic—that is, one that did not create representational images of people or deities.
This is the first book in English about the earliest historical civilization in the western Mediterranean, known as "Tartessos."
The exhibition marks the opening of the MAN’s new Archaeological News Room, a dedicated space for showcasing the latest archaeological finds from across Spain. This new initiative, launched during the tenth anniversary of the museum's major renovation (2014-2024), underscores the museum’s commitment to remaining a dynamic hub for archaeological discovery. The new room is conveniently located on the ground floor, near the educational activity room and the museum shop, ensuring easy access for visitors.
The “Faces of Turuñuelo” exhibition itself is a collaboration with the Junta de Extremadura, highlighting the significance of the find, which was unearthed at the Casas del Turuñuelo archaeological site in Guareña, Badajoz, in April 2023. Excavations at the site, which began in 2014 by the Archaeological Institute of Mérida (IAM) in conjunction with the CSIC, have consistently yielded significant finds, establishing it as one of Spain’s most important current archaeological sites.
These 2,500-year-old stone reliefs, dating back to the 5th century BC, are truly exceptional. According to Sebastián Celestino Pérez, the exhibition’s curator, and Esther Rodríguez González, co-director of the excavation, the reliefs may have originally formed part of a larger mythological scene. Their discovery challenges previous understandings of Tartessian culture, revealing a previously unknown artistic dimension.
The artifacts underwent a year of meticulous study and conservation at the Institute of Cultural Heritage of Spain (IPCE) in Madrid. Researchers employed advanced imaging techniques, including visible, infrared, and ultraviolet photography, as well as X-rays and material analysis using X-ray fluorescence and electron microscopy. These investigations, which are ongoing, will yield further insights into the reliefs, with findings expected to be released early next year.
The IPCE’s conservation team also played a crucial role in preparing the pieces for display. Using 3D scanning and modeling, they created custom mounts that allow the reliefs to be exhibited securely without any adhesive, preserving their original form for visitors to appreciate.
Visitors to the MAN can now see these remarkable artifacts for free until February 2, 2025. The exhibition is further enriched by guided tours that connect the “Faces of Turuñuelo” with the Protohistory exhibits in the museum's permanent collection, providing a broader context for understanding this ancient culture. A round table discussion is also planned for January, offering a deeper dive into the significance of the discovery.
This exhibition not only presents a captivating glimpse into the past but also demonstrates the ongoing importance of archaeological research in uncovering the rich tapestry of human history. The “Faces of Turuñuelo” exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in archaeology, ancient history, and the art of the past.
Artdaily participates in the Amazon Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn commissions by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help us continue curating and sharing the art world’s latest news, stories, and resources with our readers.
