MADRID.- A new exhibition has opened at the National Archaeological Museum (MAN) in Madrid, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Extremadura region of Spain. Titled "Extremadura, a history engraved in stone," the exhibition presents a selection of significant archaeological finds, using stone artifacts to trace the area's story from the Chalcolithic period all the way to Late Antiquity.

Following the successful launch of its "Archaeological News Room" with the "Faces of Turuñuelo" exhibition, the MAN continues to highlight recent discoveries with this new showcase. "Extremadura, a history engraved in stone," which opened on February 17th, 2025, is a collaborative effort involving the Institute of Cultural Heritage of Spain (IPCE) and the Regional Government of Extremadura.

The exhibition features five key pieces, each telling a part of Extremadura's long and varied past. One of the highlights is a recently discovered verraco, a type of stone sculpture depicting an animal, found in the Valdecañas reservoir in Cáceres. This particular piece is notable for its unusual aggressive stance.

Adding to the artistic significance is a marble relief of a griffin's head, unearthed from the Forum Portico of Augusta Emerita (modern-day Mérida). The exhibition also includes two important stelae, standing stones with inscriptions or carvings. The diademed stela from Alcántara offers insights into early regional iconography, while the stela from Navalvillar de Pela dates back to the Late Bronze Age. The journey through time concludes with a Visigothic relief from Finca Benavides, near Olivenza, which combines plant and bird motifs in its design.

The National Archaeological Museum is offering free admission to "Extremadura, a history engraved in stone" until April 20, 2025. To enhance the visitor experience, the museum has also organized a program of complementary activities. This includes family-friendly workshop visits, in-depth discussions during a series of round tables, and an immersive virtual reality experience that will transport visitors to the Cave of Maltravieso in Cáceres, known for its prehistoric cave paintings.

This exhibition not only showcases valuable archaeological finds but also underscores the National Archaeological Museum's commitment to presenting the latest discoveries from across Spain in an engaging and accessible way. By focusing on stone as a lasting medium, the exhibition aims to connect visitors with the enduring legacy of the cultures that shaped the region of Extremadura.