Abric del Seguili

The cave paintings of the Abric del Seguili, located in the municipality of Parcent, belong to an archaeological site accessible via a hiking trail that crosses the Seguili mountain range. These paintings are a remarkable example of prehistoric schematic art in the Marina Alta region. These depictions date back to the late Neolithic and the Bronze Age (approximately between 4,000 and 1,500 years before our era) and are part of the rich rock art heritage of the Spanish Mediterranean arc, recognized by UNESCO.

El Seguili hosts two styles of rock art, characteristic of the region’s caves: schematic art and Levantine art.

Levantine Art

Levantine art is characterized by its naturalism and detail. The paintings depict dynamic scenes with human figures, animals, and activities such as hunting. Created with natural pigments, they are found in rock shelters and reflect the life and beliefs of prehistoric communities.

Schematic Art

Unlike Levantine art, which is more naturalistic and detailed, the schematic paintings of Seguili are characterized by their simplified forms. The depicted motifs include stylized human figures, animals, and geometric symbols that likely held ritual or spiritual significance. These paintings, created with natural pigments, are found in rock shelters that served as places of worship or meeting points for prehistoric communities in the region.

Cultural Importance and Conservation

The rock paintings of Seguili are not only a testament to the creative capacity of our ancestors but also a window into the social and spiritual development of the first agro-pastoral communities. Although they have withstood the test of time, their conservation is essential to ensure that future generations can appreciate and study this unique heritage.