Recently, researchers have discovered that elements of the historic Bronze Age collection known as the Villena Treasure, uncovered in Spain over 60 years ago, contain iron sourced from an extraterrestrial meteorite that reached Earth millions of years ago. The Treasure of Villena includes items crafted from valuable materials such as gold, silver, amber, and iron, offering insights into the culture, technology, and customs of the Bronze Age inhabitants from 1400 to 1200 BC. Some of the objects were found to be crafted from material of extraterrestrial origin, specifically meteoric iron. Notably, recent research has revealed that two iron artifacts, a gold cloth hole and a C-shaped bracelet, were made from iron derived from a meteorite that fell to Earth a million years ago, symbolizing a connection between earthly and celestial elements, and showcasing ancient craftsmanship.
A pommel sword from the Villena hoard, made of iron from a meteorite and gold glitter that forms the image of four stars. Photo: REPERTORIO DIGITAL CSIC During the original discovery, certain metal objects puzzled researchers due to their distinctive appearance, featuring a lustrous, radiant metal with areas covered in an iron oxide-like substance. A study, published on December 30 in the journal Trabajos de Prehistoria, analyzed two metal pieces, confirming that the material used in their production is indeed of meteorite origin, as indicated by spectrometric analysis revealing an iron-nickel alloy similar to meteoritic iron. According to the research team’s findings, one of Spain’s most prized possessions, an iron bracelet, was crafted from iron and nickel, an important detail considering that meteoric iron typically contains about 5 percent nickel.
Part of the Tesoro de Villena hoard, a bracelet made of metal from a meteor. Photo: MUSEO ARQUEOLÓGICO DE VILLENA This discovery marks the earliest documented finding of meteoritic metal in the Iberian Peninsula, shedding light on the metallurgical practices of the Late Bronze Age and how these practices were influenced by new technologies. Hence, these artifacts not only serve as valuable treasures but also offer a glimpse into the past, providing insights into the evolution of new technologies and societal changes. Furthermore, these objects complement other rare meteoritic iron artifacts dating back to the 1st millennium BC, such as an arrowhead discovered in Switzerland and other items in Poland. Presently, the data indicates that the composition of the Spanish artifacts is akin to that of the Mundrabilla meteorite from Australia, although it is currently unconfirmed whether ancient people used materials from this meteorite to craft these precious objects. The researchers are planning further investigation in the future. Cover Photo: turismovillena.com
