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Date Published: 26/09/2024

Outrage as ancient Iberian settlement in Los Nietos is put up for sale again

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Locals have demanded action to protect the historic site, which they believe is being neglected

Outrage as ancient Iberian settlement in Los Nietos is put up for sale again

An ancient Iberian settlement within Los Nietos is once again up for sale, sparking outrage among local residents. The plot of land, which is located near the Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Rocío, was first listed for sale a year ago by a private company although it is a significant archaeological site, and despite the community’s protests, the ‘For Sale’ sign has now returned.

The site, which is classified as an ‘Asset of Cultural Interest’ (Bien de Interés Cultural or BIC), is one of the few documented Iberian settlements on the coast of Murcia, making it a valuable piece of the Region’s historical heritage.

It is known for its necropolis and the artefacts uncovered during past excavations, including ceramics and metal objects, many of which are displayed in local museums. However, residents are frustrated by the apparent lack of official action to preserve or expropriate the land.

Nani Vergara, president of the Los Nietos Neighbourhood Association, voiced the community’s deep concern: “It has been declared a BIC, but they have forgotten about it. We have been asking the Town Hall to clean and conserve this site for years, but we are told it’s a problem with the bank. Since the DANA storms, nothing has been done to maintain it.”

Vergara further lamented the lost potential for the site, which could serve as a tourist attraction for Los Nietos. “This was discovered more than 25 years ago. Haven’t they had time to expropriate it? We don’t understand how something that could revalue the town can be left abandoned. It’s very hard; they ignore us.”

The Iberian settlement, remarkable for its coastal location, has minimal natural defences compared to other inland sites typically perched on elevated ground. Despite the construction of protective walls, it was vulnerable to external attacks, making its preservation all the more important for understanding Iberian coastal communities.

Local residents are also concerned about the degradation of the site. “As soon as it rains, it gets worse. Bottles are thrown there too, everything,” said Vergara. “In the end, it’s the locals who have to defend this, because we won’t let them build here. It’s a pity. What little we have is being taken away from us. In Los Nietos, they have abandoned us.”

Despite its historical significance, the future of the site remains uncertain, leaving residents anxious about its fate and the lack of attention from authorities.

Image: Google Maps

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