Los Millares
Ruins Prehistoric Chalcolithic archaeological site near Almería
A Copper Age archaeological complex in Andalusia, Los Millares preserves fortified settlement remains and tholos tombs; archaeologists and history-minded visitors examine excavated walls and a small interpretive museum.
Los Millares is a prehistoric Chalcolithic (Copper Age) archaeological complex in Andalusia, southern Spain, notable for a fortified settlement and extensive cemeteries. The site has long been central to understanding Iberian prehistoric societies because of its fortifications and burial architecture.
Archaeological features include concentric defensive walls, domestic remains and a necropolis of passage graves and tumuli. The site was systematically excavated by the Belgian Siret brothers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which revealed its scale and importance for prehistoric Iberia.
Los Millares sits inland in the province of Almería, Andalusia, and is presented to visitors with onsite displays and pathways that interpret the settlement layout and funerary structures. The ruins are exposed and accessible for study and visitation.
- Early excavations: Extensively excavated by the Siret brothers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which established the site as a type-site for Iberian Copper Age studies.
- Visitor facilities: Interpretive displays and a visitor area near the site provide context for the fortifications and burial structures uncovered there.
What to See #
- Fortified settlement: A fortified Chalcolithic settlement featuring multiple concentric defensive walls and domestic remains excavated in the late 19th century.
- Cemeteries and tombs: A large necropolis of passage graves and bell-shaped tombs dating to the Copper Age, with tumuli and collective burials documented by early archaeologists.
How to Get to Los Millares #
Los Millares is near Santa Fe de Mondújar in Almería province. The site is reachable by car from Almería city (about 40-50 minutes). Local roads lead to an on-site parking area and visitor access.
Tips for Visiting Los Millares #
- Bring a printed map of the archaeological trails - signage on site is limited in places.
- Visit the onsite information center if open; it offers useful context on Copper Age life and excavations.
Best Time to Visit Los Millares #
Spring and autumn provide the most comfortable visiting conditions; summers are hot and require sun protection.
Weather & Climate near Los Millares #
Los Millares's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 5°C to 33°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 15°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm).
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February
February is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Light rainfall.
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March
March is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 7°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 12°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is warm with highs of 33°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 2 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 33°C and lows of 19°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 17°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 12°C. The wettest month with 34 mm of rain.
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November
November is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with 34 mm of rain.
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December
December is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm).
