Cueva del Hierro Roman Mine

Cueva del Hierro Roman Mine

The extraction of iron ore at the iron ore mine of Iron Cave probably began in pre-Roman times, approximately in the 6th century BC. It was probably also exploited in the second Iron Age, by one of the Celtiberian peoples located in the Iberian System. The extraordinary abundance of remains of Iberian forts from this period within a short kilometre radius confirm this, although data on exploitation at this time are scarce.

Their mining was known and praised by Greek and Roman authors. These peoples developed an important metallurgy and goldsmithing. The iron extracted from the mines was mainly used for tools and weapons, such as the famous falcatas.

Within the mining complex of Cueva del Hierro, there are morphological features in the design and working techniques of the Roman mining in underground workings. In some points, the solutions adopted bear a striking resemblance to the mirror-stone mining of the Alcarria and Cuenca, dating from the High Empire (1st and 2nd centuries AD).

The iron extracted from the Roman mine of Cueva del Hierro was used for the manufacture of weapons and tools used in other mines, examples of some of which are exhibited in the small museum that completes the great visit to this siteA must for any lover of history and caves, it is also suitable for the whole family, so we can initiate the youngest members of the family and encourage the adventurous spirit of the older ones.