Talayotic

Talayotic refers to a culture that flourished on the island of Menorca, in the Balearic Islands of Spain, during the Iron Age, approximately from the 8th century BCE to the 2nd century BCE. The most distinctive features of the Talayotic culture are its megalithic monuments, known as talayots. These are circular or rectangular stone towers, constructed from large, unworked stones, which vary in size and height. Their exact purpose remains a subject of debate among archaeologists, with theories suggesting they served as defensive structures, watchtowers, or even as symbols of social status and power.

Beyond the talayots, the culture is also characterized by other stone constructions such as taulas, which are T-shaped structures formed by a large vertical stone supporting a horizontal lintel, and navetas, which are boat-shaped burial monuments. The settlements typically consisted of clusters of stone houses and often included communal spaces. Evidence suggests a settled agricultural society with a significant reliance on animal husbandry. The Talayotic people also engaged in trade, as indicated by the presence of imported materials and artifacts found at their sites. The culture eventually declined with the Roman conquest of the Balearic Islands in the 2nd century BCE. The prehistoric sites of Menorca, particularly those displaying Talayotic architecture, have been recognized for their cultural significance and are nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status.