Ancient Spanish Copper Mine Las Minillas Linked to Scandinavian Bronze Objects in Study

A study published on October 26, 2026, in the archaeological journal Antiquity suggests that copper extracted from the Las Minillas mine in south-western Spain shares chemical signatures with 11 Late Bronze Age bronze objects found in Scandinavia. Researchers analyzed lead isotope ratios, trace elements, and silver and antimony concentrations to establish these connections, pointing to a potential far-reaching trade network during the Bronze Age.

According to the published research, excavations at Las Minillas revealed extensive mining works, stone hammers, and evidence of smelting dating from approximately 1350 to 750 BC. While the chemical matches indicate shared origins, the precise trade routes and mechanisms of exchange remain uncertain.

Key Findings and Research Details

• Study Publication: Published in *Antiquity* (Cambridge University Press) on October 26, 2026.
• Site Location: Las Minillas, near Granja de Torrehermosa in Badajoz, Extremadura, south-west Spain.
• Dating: Radiocarbon dating indicates mining activity from roughly 1350 to 750 BC.
• Artifact Comparison: Researchers compared mine samples with over 300 Scandinavian Late Bronze Age bronze objects, identifying 11 chemical matches.
• Dating of Objects: Seven matching objects date to Nordic Bronze Age Period V (approx. 900-700 BC); two date to Period VI (approx. 700-500 BC).

Practical Implications and Verification

• Broader European Networks: The findings suggest southern Iberia may have supplied copper as other major European mining districts declined.
• Uncertain Routes: The research highlights a chemical connection rather than a definitive mapping of trade routes, indicating metal may have passed through multiple intermediaries.
• How to Verify: Interested readers can review the peer-reviewed study directly in the journal *Antiquity* for detailed methodological data and lead isotope analyses.