Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueologia de Cantabria | Santander

The Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria (Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria) is one of the most important cultural institutions in Santander, located in Cantabria, northern Spain. The museum offers an in-depth exploration of the region's rich prehistoric and archaeological history, showcasing thousands of years of human history through a range of permanent and temporary exhibits.

Overview and History

The Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria was founded in 1928, initially as part of the Cantabrian Provincial Museum. It was later restructured and expanded, becoming a specialized institution dedicated to the preservation and study of Cantabria's prehistoric and archaeological heritage. The museum is housed in the Palacio de los Condes de la Vega del Sella, a historical building in the heart of Santander, giving visitors a glimpse into both the region's ancient past and its architectural heritage.

The museum’s collection covers a wide range of periods, from the Paleolithic to the Roman era, providing an in-depth view of the earliest human settlements in Cantabria and their evolution over millennia.

Key Collections and Exhibits

The museum’s exhibitions are divided into several sections, each focusing on different periods and aspects of Cantabria’s prehistoric and archaeological history.

Paleolithic and Upper Paleolithic: The museum’s most renowned collection is its extensive array of Paleolithic artifacts, many of which were discovered in caves throughout Cantabria, which is famous for its prehistoric cave art. The Altamira Cave (known as the "Sistine Chapel of Paleolithic Art") is located in the region, and while the cave itself is not open to the public, the museum features detailed replicas of the cave’s paintings and engravings.

• Exhibits: The museum displays tools, weapons, and artifacts used by early human societies. One of the most remarkable parts of the collection is the reconstructions of prehistoric cave paintings, giving visitors a chance to understand the artistry and symbolic meaning behind the ancient works.

Mesolithic and Neolithic: This section covers the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods, focusing on the transition from hunting and gathering to settled agricultural communities. The museum presents artifacts such as ceramics, farming tools, and early domestic objects, highlighting how early humans adapted to their environment and developed more sophisticated forms of living.

Bronze Age: The Bronze Age section delves into the Celtiberian cultures of Cantabria and the wider northern Iberian Peninsula. The museum displays bronze tools, weapons, and decorative objects, shedding light on the social, economic, and technological advances of this period.

Iron Age and Roman Era: The museum also features collections from the Iron Age and Roman occupation of Cantabria. This period saw the arrival of Roman influence, including the construction of roads, cities, and fortifications. The Roman collection includes a variety of objects, such as ceramic vessels, coins, architectural elements, and funerary objects.

• The museum provides insight into the relationship between the indigenous Cantabrians and the Romans, as well as the Romanization of the region, with exhibits that illustrate daily life, religion, and the Roman military presence in the area.

Prehistoric Art and Rock Art: Cantabria is home to some of the most important examples of prehistoric art, particularly cave paintings and rock art, which feature prominently in the museum’s collection. The museum educates visitors about the significance of cave art and its connection to early human spirituality, ritual, and communication.

• Artworks on display include reproductions of cave paintings, carvings, and sculptures, providing a detailed understanding of early humans’ connection to their environment and their evolving symbolic expression.

The Altamira Exhibit

One of the key highlights of the museum is its exhibit dedicated to the Altamira Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The museum offers detailed information about the famous cave paintings that depict bison, human figures, and abstract symbols, dating back to around 36,000 years ago.

Although access to the original cave is highly restricted to preserve the art, the museum features a replica of the cave (called the "Altamira Cave Replica") that allows visitors to experience the cave paintings up close. This exhibit is one of the most educational and immersive ways to learn about prehistoric art and its significance.

Educational Programs and Activities

The Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria offers various educational programs for visitors of all ages, from schoolchildren to adults. These programs include:

• Workshops: Interactive workshops where visitors can try their hand at creating prehistoric art, tools, or pottery using methods that would have been employed by ancient humans.
• Guided Tours: Expert-led tours that provide deeper insights into the museum’s collections and the history of Cantabria’s prehistoric past.
• Temporary Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that explore specific aspects of archaeology and history, from ancient civilizations to modern archaeological practices.

Visitor Experience

The museum is housed in the Palacio de los Condes de la Vega del Sella, a 17th-century building that adds to the historic atmosphere of the museum. Visitors can explore its stunning architecture, as well as the modern and interactive exhibits within.

Exhibition Spaces: The museum’s galleries are spacious and well-lit, with clear signage and information in Spanish and English, making it accessible for international visitors.

Visitor Facilities: The museum features a gift shop offering books, replicas of archaeological artifacts, and educational materials. There is also a café where visitors can relax after exploring the exhibits.

Location and Access

The Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria is centrally located in Santander, making it easily accessible to both locals and tourists. It is within walking distance of other key attractions in the city, including the Centro Botín, the Palacio de la Magdalena, and the Bay of Santander.

Conclusion

The Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria is a must-visit for anyone interested in the prehistoric past of the Cantabria region and the Iberian Peninsula. Its diverse collections, from Paleolithic cave art to Roman-era artifacts, offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of human societies in this part of Spain. The museum is not only an important cultural institution but also an educational space that helps preserve and share the region’s rich archaeological heritage.