Arraitz-Orkin (Ultzama) [K .a.11640]

Description

According to the international scientific community, this map located in Navarre is the most ancient map in Western Europe and without a doubt one of the oldest in the world. The map, found in 1993 inside the cave Abauntz, valley of Ultzama, was engraved in stone 13.660 years ago. The depictions, informally called “the Map of Abauntz”, show a number of surrounding elements sculpted in stone. Dr. Pilar Utrilla and Dr. Carlos Mazo could identify the mountain San Gregorio, opposite the cave, as well as the course of the stream Zaldazain winding through, joined by two tributaries. A number of circles may depict areas swamped in winter. The engraving also features animals such as deer, goats or horses, and human-like shapes.