Ca n'Oliver Iberian Settlement and Museum

Perched on the serene hills of the Collserola Natural Park, the Ca n'Oliver Iberian Settlement and Museum (known locally as Poblado íbero Can Olivé) in Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain, offers an intriguing glimpse into the ancient world of the Iberians. This sprawling archaeological site, declared a Cultural Asset of National Interest, is a treasure trove of history, dating back to the 6th century BC and extending into the medieval period.

The History of Ca n'Oliver Iberian Settlement

The strategic location of the Ca n'Oliver Iberian Settlement, atop a hill, provided the ancient inhabitants with a vantage point to oversee the vast plains of Vallès. This was not just a random choice; the elevated position allowed the higher social strata of the Iberian society to control agricultural lands and small farming communities below. The settlement's history is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Iberian people, who thrived here for centuries.

Initially, the settlement was a simple cluster of modest homes. However, by the 4th to 3rd centuries BC, during what is known as the full Iberian period, the settlement expanded significantly. The construction of a grand entrance, a moat, and a field of silos for storing surplus agricultural produce marked this era of prosperity. These surplus goods were traded with other Mediterranean communities, showcasing the settlement's economic vibrancy.

The Ca n'Oliver settlement faced destruction at the end of the 3rd century BC or the beginning of the 2nd century BC, likely due to the Second Punic War (218-206 BC). Yet, the resilient Iberians rebuilt it during the final Iberian period. However, with the advent of Roman territorial organization, the settlement was eventually abandoned.

Interestingly, the site saw a brief resurgence during the 9th and 10th centuries in the early medieval period. Some of the Iberian constructions and silos were repurposed, possibly as part of a defensive network. A document from 998 AD refers to the site as Castello, indicating its continued strategic importance.

Excavations and Museumization

The existence of the Ca n'Oliver Iberian Settlement has been known since 1919. Excavations began in 1954 but were halted in the 1960s. It wasn't until 1986 that systematic archaeological work resumed, led by the Col·lectiu de Recerques Arqueològiques de Cerdanyola and later by the local municipality's Heritage Service.

In November 1999, the first phase of the museumization of the site was inaugurated. Since then, annual exhibitions have showcased the restored findings from the previous year. Today, visitors can explore well-defined streets, houses, and other remnants of the ancient settlement, all meticulously preserved and accessible to the public.

On October 1, 2010, the Ca n'Oliver Iberian Museum was inaugurated. This museum offers a comprehensive display of the vast array of artifacts recovered during the excavations, integrating the settlement into the broader Iberian Route. Many of these objects were previously exhibited at the Ca n'Ortadó Museum in Cerdanyola.

Exploring the Settlement

The Ca n'Oliver Iberian Settlement is divided into several representative sections that provide a window into the daily life and culture of its ancient inhabitants. The defensive structures, including enclosing walls, towers, and moats, are a testament to the settlement's strategic importance and the need for protection against potential invaders.

The field of silos is another fascinating feature, highlighting the settlement's agricultural prowess and the importance of surplus storage for trade. The monumental entrance and the main street offer a glimpse into the settlement's layout and the daily comings and goings of its residents.

Visitors can also explore various reconstructed buildings, such as houses from different Iberian periods and a metallurgical workshop. These reconstructions, based on recovered and reproduced remains, provide valuable insights into the everyday life, craftsmanship, and domestic activities of the Iberians.

The Iberians in Cerdanyola del Vallès

The influence of the Iberians extends beyond the Ca n'Oliver settlement. Archaeological remains have been discovered in other parts of Cerdanyola del Vallès, such as Can Xercavins, silos in Bellaterra, and an Iberian-Roman site at the Faculty of Medicine of the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB). These findings underscore the widespread presence and cultural impact of the Iberians in the region.

Conclusion

The Ca n'Oliver Iberian Settlement and Museum is more than just an archaeological site; it is a portal to a bygone era. As you wander through the ancient streets and explore the meticulously reconstructed buildings, you can almost hear the echoes of the past - the hustle and bustle of daily life, the clang of metal in the workshop, and the strategic discussions atop the hill. This site is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, offering a unique and immersive experience into the rich tapestry of Iberian civilization. So, step back in time and uncover the secrets of the Ca n'Oliver Iberian Settlement, where history comes alive in the heart of Cerdanyola del Vallès.