Die posttalaiotische Siedlung von Es Rossells (Felanitx, Mallorca)

Abstract

The posttalaiotic fortified settlement of Es Rossells (Felanitx, Mallorca) has been surveyed in two field courses since 2014, which have been part of an interchange program (ERASMUS) between Palma University (Universitat de les Illes Balears, UIB) and Kiel University (Christian- Albrechts-Universität, CAU). On the forehand the educational objectives and the appropriate documentation form a central part of this work, while the analysis of this monumental settlement of the Balearic Iron Age is aimed at the medium term. This paper presents the results of the first two field courses and the subsequent analysis of the collected data. The almost perfectly preserved two leaves wall surrounding the settlement Es Rossells consists of two different constructions with the older one build of standing polygonal stone slabs up to 4 m2 in size. The volume of the wall can be approximated to have at least 2.644 m3 and thus an estimated weight of almost 6.742 t. The southern part of the wall is of monumental design and carefully build, therefore it presents a recognizable representative importance. The three documented gateways in the wall do not show any reference to the immediately adjacent stone structures, e. g. a stepped mound (túmul esglaonat), but show a clear relation to the surrounding topography or nearby settlement and therefore point to a more regional significance and relation of the site. Compared to similar fortified settlements on Mallorca the outstanding preservation of Es Rossells has to be emphasized.