Statue menhir of Mollet

The Statue menhir of Mollet, known locally as Menhir de Mollet, is a remarkable megalithic monument nestled in the urban heart of Mollet del Vallès, Spain. This ancient stone figure, standing at an impressive 4.90 meters in height, 68 centimeters in width, and 110 centimeters in depth, weighs a staggering six tons. Estimated to be around 5,000 years old, this statue menhir is a fascinating relic from the Neolithic period, offering a glimpse into the prehistoric past of the region.

The Discovery of the Statue Menhir of Mollet

The Statue menhir of Mollet was discovered in April 2009 during the construction of a parking lot in the Pla de les Pruneres area of Mollet del Vallès. Buried 10 meters below the current surface, this megalith was found in a region characterized by its accumulation of sands and gravels due to periodic flooding from nearby streams and the Besòs River. These conditions suggest that the Pla de les Pruneres was not the original site of the menhir, but rather a place where it was relocated, possibly as a result of social or environmental changes over millennia.

Historical and Sociological Context

The Neolithic period, during which the Statue menhir of Mollet was created, was a time of significant social transformation. Communities began to organize around charismatic leaders, and collective efforts were made to construct monumental structures such as dolmens and menhirs. These efforts reflect a sense of intergroup solidarity and a desire to commemorate these leaders, possibly as a means of reinforcing social cohesion during times of climatic instability and food scarcity.

Artistic and Cultural Significance

One of the most striking features of the Statue menhir of Mollet is its anthropomorphic decorations. On one side, the stone displays a human face in relief, while the opposite side is adorned with curvilinear or serpentiform carvings. These artistic elements, which include a T facial motif, draw parallels with similar statues and steles from the Languedoc region in southern France, suggesting a shared cultural heritage across these regions during the Neolithic period.

Challenges in Dating and Interpretation

Dating menhirs is inherently challenging, as it is difficult to determine the exact time when the stones were carved. Instead, archaeologists rely on contextual clues and comparisons with other similar artifacts. The facial relief on the Statue menhir of Mollet is comparable to those found in southern France, dating from the late Middle Neolithic to the end of the Neolithic period (approximately 3500/3200-2400 BCE). However, the serpentiform engravings are more universal and harder to date precisely.

Interestingly, the carvings on the Statue menhir of Mollet appear to have been created at different times. The serpentiform motifs likely date back to the Middle Neolithic, while the facial relief was probably added later, during the Late Neolithic period. This suggests that the menhir was a continually evolving monument, reflecting changes in artistic expression and cultural significance over time.

Restoration and Conservation Efforts

Upon its discovery, the Statue menhir of Mollet was transported to the Centre de Restauració de Béns Mobles de Catalunya (CRBMC) in Valldoreix for cleaning and restoration. The restoration process involved meticulous mechanical cleaning to remove soil and salts accumulated over millennia. The stone was also desalinized to prevent further deterioration.

One significant challenge during the restoration was the damage caused by the construction machinery that initially uncovered the menhir. The upper part of the stone, including some decorative elements, was lost, and transverse scratches were visible on one side. Despite these damages, the restoration team successfully stabilized the menhir and prepared it for public display.

Current Display and Public Engagement

Today, the Statue menhir of Mollet stands proudly in a specially designed display case, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical and artistic significance. The display case protects the stone from environmental factors while providing an up-close view of its intricate carvings. The menhir’s current location in Mollet del Vallès, although not its original site, allows for greater public access and engagement with this extraordinary piece of Neolithic heritage.

Conclusion

The Statue menhir of Mollet is more than just a stone; it is a testament to the ingenuity and artistic expression of our Neolithic ancestors. Its discovery and subsequent restoration have provided invaluable insights into the social and cultural dynamics of prehistoric communities in the region. As you stand before this ancient monument, you are not just looking at a relic of the past, but a symbol of human resilience and creativity that has endured for millennia.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an archaeology aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Statue menhir of Mollet offers a fascinating journey back in time. It is a must-visit landmark that connects us to the distant past and reminds us of the enduring legacy of human civilization.