Spanish archaeologists have recently uncovered an intriguing find in Barcelona. Within a building that later served as a chocolate factory, excavators have revealed the remnants of a medieval structure.
Although the building itself hails from the 19th century, investigations suggest that its original foundations are considerably older, as indicated by the architectural features observed on the property. These findings were detailed in a press release issued by the Barcelona Archaeology Service on February 12th, written in Catalan.
Situated in Barcelona’s Plaça de la Llana, historically known as the “plaza of the wool” due to its former role as a marketplace, the building bears traces of a grand medieval house dating back to the 14th century, according to the translated press release.
Historians have unearthed lead plates believed to have been utilized within the chocolate factory during the 19th century. These discoveries were made by the Barcelona Archaeology Service in collaboration with Global Geomática, SL and ICUB, as documented by Marta Lucas.
While the precise age of the original construction remains elusive, estimates suggest it could range from 625 to 725 years old if it indeed originated in the 14th century. Scholars speculate that the medieval dwelling underwent a transformation into a hostel by the 15th century, ceasing its original functions by the 16th century.
According to statements from the Barcelona Archaeology Service, it was reported that the initial house underwent transformation into a hostel during the 15th century. This information was provided by the Barcelona Archaeology Service in collaboration with Global Geomática, SL and ICUB, as recorded by Marta Lucas.
During the 16th century, the property underwent significant renovations to align with contemporary architectural styles and trends, as noted by the Barcelona Archaeology Service. Subsequent alterations in the 18th century saw the division of the structure into three separate properties.
These containers dating back to the 18th century were uncovered by archaeologists during their excavation, and they are slated for testing. This discovery was made by the Barcelona Archaeology Service in collaboration with Global Geomática, SL and ICUB, as documented by Marta Lucas.
Among the discoveries made by historians are a collection of seven ceramic containers from the 18th century, slated for further analysis to unveil their contents. Additionally, traces of its 19th-century incarnation as a chocolate workshop, named the Clemente Guardia chocolate factory, were discerned, including lead plates utilized for labeling.
The archaeological endeavors persist as researchers delve deeper into the subterranean layers, simultaneously scrutinizing the building’s facades. Such efforts aim to comprehensively document the different epochs of its existence and elucidate its evolutionary trajectory, as concluded in the translated press release.