More protection for Turaniana site urged

The ‘Unidos por Turaniana’ Group has reported illegal excavations at the archaeological site of Turaniana in Roquetas de Mar. 

The archaeological site at Turaniana [Credit: Unidos por Turaniana]

The complaints have been made to the Environmental Prosecutor and the Culture Delegation after evidence of digging in the Torre Quebrada area was detected. Parts of the tower had been removed and the damage had been hidden with vegetation. 

The group considers that such activity “seriously damages the valuable local historical and archaeological heritage” and could be considered a very serious crime according to the Andalucian Historical Heritage Law. 

They have therefore requested an investigation into the events and are demanding more protection for the site. 

They have also asked that the archaeological remains be signposted to that local residents are aware of their importance. 

Enrique Ruiz, the lawyer for Environmentalists in Action, who are also demanding further protection for the site, said “it has been raided time and time again” and “is abandoned by the Junta de Andalucia, the Town Hall and local residents” as barbecues and other activities are carried out on the site at weekends. 

They believe that “someone who knows the value of the site” is behind the two-metre hole which was found and suspect that they were looking for something valuable. 

The Delegate for Culture, Jose Antonio Lucas, said an investigation would be opened and the Guardia Civil Nature Protection Service (SEPRONA) would be informed in order to catch the culprits. 

Author: Costa de Almería | Source: EuroWeekly News [March 13, 2012]