Necrópolis and Los Algarbes
The Archaeological Complex of Los Algarbes lies southeast of Zagra, around the Cortijo del Algarbe, in an area of rocky limestone and sandstone formations containing numerous natural caves and rock shelters. The name Algarbe derives from the Spanish word “Algar” (meaning cave), reflecting the many caves and graves excavated in stone.
The site contains a rock-cut monastic complex dating to the 6th and 7th centuries AD, including a cave adapted as a church, a rock-cut baptistery, monastic cells, and an associated necropolis. Evidence of an Islamic settlement from the 10th to 12th centuries is also present, indicating the area remained occupied.
The necropolis contains 60 graves carved directly into the rock in several groupings. Most are rectangular and bathtub-shaped, some with a stepped border designed to support stone slabs covering the burial. They vary in size, suggesting they were used for adults and children. Archaeological evidence suggests that the cemetery was associated with Christian communities living in the area during Late Antiquity, with some burials and other evidence indicating that its use continued into the later Medieval period