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The epigraphic stela of Montoro (Cordoba): the earliest monumental script in Iberia?

Garcia Sanjuan, Leonardo; Diaz-Guardamino, Marta; Wheatley, David W.; Vita Barra, Juan-Pablo; Lozano Rodriguez, Jose Antonio; Angel Rogerio-Candelera, Miguel; Justo Erbez, Angel; Barker, Dominic; Strutt, Kris; Casado Ariza, Manuel

ANTIQUITY
2017
VL / 91 - BP / 916 - EP / 932
abstract
A remarkable stela from Montoro, southern Spain, is unique in its morphology, epigraphic traits and landscape context. A programme of chemical characterisation, digital imaging, and geo-lithological and epigraphic analyses were conducted to determine its age and significance, and the results were integrated with data from archaeological investigations of the surrounding area. This multi-faceted approach allowed the stela to be interpreted within the context of early interactions between literate Mediterranean societies of the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age and non-literate Iberian societies. A key outcome of this research is a wider understanding of the complex patterns in the use and perception of early scripts.

AccesS level

Green accepted, Bronze

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