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At about 20 km north-east from Burgos, along the route of the Camino de Santiago, is Atapuerca. It is a small town of just over 200 inhabitants, about 900 meters above sea level.
The importance it has, however, lies in the presence of one of the most important paleontological sites in Europe: the Atapuerca Archaeological Site. An incredible scientific reserve with invaluable information, scattered around the 285000 hectares of the site. Precisely in this place are preserved the most ancient and abundant testimonies of mankind in Europe. In the Sima de los Huesos, remains of over 32 people have been found; all of different ages and sexes. It is thanks to them that it is possible to have an incredible picture, on the appearance and lifestyle, the evolutionary line of human ancestors.
Considering its priceless value, the Atapuerca Archaeological Site has been declared, in the 2000, a World Heritage Site by UNESCO; from the 2015, it has also been awarded the title of Site of Outstanding Universal Value by UNESCO.
The visit offers the possibility to cross the so-called Trinchera del Ferrocarril; it is an artificial passage of the early twentieth century that has brought to light numerous findings of three of the most significant places of Atapuerca; you can visit the Sima del Elefante, the Galleria and the Gran Dolina.
CAREX, is the Center of Experimental Archeology. It allows to understand the production techniques and the use of tools of the past; besides, you will be able to see the containers, the fabrics and the ornaments developed in antiquity.
Photo ©, Mario Modesto
PRACTICAL INFO
GET IN
From Burgos, by car, just take the N120 and follow the signs. The Reception center is located just under 1 km, from the entrance of the Archaeological Site Atapuerca.
ATAPUERCA ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OPENING HOURS
The Site observes different times depending on the time of year. Therefore, please consult the official website from this link, clicking on the month of your interest
It is open every day, from Tuesday to Sunday. Closed every Monday and 01/01, 06/01, 03/06, 29/06 and 19 December at the end of February.
The site could be closed in case of climatic adversity.
TICKETS
Yacimientos, whole 6,00€; reduced (children up to 16 years, students, pilgrims along the Way) 5,00€. Free for children up to 8 years and disabled.
Centro de Arqueología Experimental CARAX: 5,00€; reduced (children up to 16 years, students, pilgrims along the Way) 4,00€. Free for children up to 8 years and disabled.
Useful numbers for bookings and info: 947 421 000 – 902 024 246.