Cala Morell, a residential area on Ciutadella’s northern coast, is home to one of the island’s most spectacular archaeological sites. It includes a large necropolis, with 17 artificial caves, most from the Talayotic period, and a coastal settlement made up of 13 dwellings, some with an apsidal layout and others quadrangular. This settlement was inhabited during the Bronze Age (1600-1200 BC).
What is most surprising is the construction technique used, which is not cyclopean, as would correspond to the period’s typical dwelling navetas, but instead based on the use of smaller stones.
The area has been studied by researchers since 2011 as part of the “Entre Illes” (Between Islands) archaeological project, whose hypothesis is that this was one of the last naviform settlements to be built. It is believed that the final group to live here was isolated due to pressure from a new type of society that was concentrated in larger settlements and who initiated the construction of talayots.
Schedule: Open access
Price: Free
Open: Yes
Access: Access is via the road from Ciutadella to Cala Morell. At the first roundabout in Cala Morell, with the taula monuments at the centre, continue north on the same road and go left at the last intersection. Follow the road to the left parallel to the coast until reaching a dead end. From there, it is a short walk to the archaeological site.
Also accessible via the Camí de Cavalls trail, on the Algaiarens-Cala Morell and Cala Morell Punta Nati sections.
Road signs are posted.
Car Park: Parking is in the residential area.
Guided tours: Visitor information panels are posted
Contact:
Services: No
Access for individuals with reduced mobility: No
More information See map
More information: The settlement is both delimited and closed off by a wall on its southern side. At the centre of the settlement, on a downward slope toward the north are two depressions dug out from the rock; basins that were used for water catchment and settling. In fact, they are still home to green herbaceous vegetation year-round.
The “Entre Illes” (Between Islands) research project unearthed two naviform structures with elongated apsidal layouts and southward facing entrances. One shows a rectangular based hearth at its centre and a number of benches. Around the building’s access point, in a small space within the eastern wall, domestic elements have been documented: a circular support measuring around 30 cm in height, made from clay, and a slightly concave base of a mill made from Tertiary sandstone. These excavations revealed a concentration of animal bone remains from goats, sheep, pigs and cows. Surprisingly, no fish remains were discovered.
The other naviforme also housed a central hearth and a noteworthy second hearth at the building’s rear, perhaps used as a brazier. Also documented at the building’s entrance was a work area, with a few stone tools.
This site is currently in a living state of constant change, as the results of these excavations open new lines of research that allow for further knowledge regarding Menorca’s naviform culture and its relationship with the sea and navigation.