Island-Spot

Necrópolis de Son Real

Necrópolis de Son Real: Discover Mallorca’s antique secrets

The Necròpolis of Son Real on Mallorca is an important archaeological complex in the north of the island that dates back to the 7th to 4th centuries BC and offers insights into the burial rituals of the Talayotic culture.

The Necròpolis of Son Real covers an area of around 8000 square meters and comprises 143 discovered graves, which are laid out in the form of small stone mounds and chambers and contain the bones of at least 425 people.

The graves date from different eras. The oldest structures date back to the 7th century BC. These graves were used by the indigenous people of Mallorca to bury their dead and provide them with a dignified resting place.

The Talayotic culture is known for its so-called Talayots, megalithic buildings that served as watchtowers or residential structures. The Necrópolis de Son Real, on the other hand, shows another facet of this culture: its burial practices and religious beliefs. The tombs are laid out in various forms – from simple cairns to complex burial chambers – which could indicate different social classes or time periods.

One of the most remarkable features of the Necrópolis de Son Real is its location directly by the sea. This was probably no coincidence, as in many ancient cultures the sea was seen as a passage to the underworld. The proximity to the water could therefore have had symbolic significance.

For those who want to take a deeper look into the secrets of this site, it is worth booking a guided tour. Local archaeologists occasionally offer tours where they not only explain the history but also share current research findings.

Another tip: visit the necropolis early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light gently streams across the landscape and creates an almost mystical atmosphere.