Verrco Sculpture from Ancient Iberia

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James Blake Wiener
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published on 31 October 2017
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Verrco Sculpture from Ancient Iberia Download Full Size Image

This verraco of a pig is made of granite and dates from the 3rd-1st century BCE. It was created by members of the Vettonian culture of ancient Iberia and was found in the Spanish province of Ávila. Verracos were sculptures of male beasts — usually standing pigs or bulls — which first appeared in the western part of the Iberian Peninsula in the 4th century BCE. They are typically made from granite. There are several theories regarding their function, but nowadays they are widely believed to indicated grazing areas and cattle routes controlled by the "oppida" (large regional settlements). Positioned at the entrance or in a prominent location, their presence served to indicate and protect pastures. Verracos also had a funerary purpose in the latter days of this period when they were used and engraved with names in Latin. (Museo Arqueológico Nacional, Madrid)

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About the Author

James Blake Wiener
James is a writer and former Professor of History. He holds an MA in World History with a particular interest in cross-cultural exchange and world history. He is a co-founder of World History Encyclopedia and formerly was its Communications Director.

Cite This Work

APA Style

Wiener, J. B. (2017, October 31). Verrco Sculpture from Ancient Iberia. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/7507/verrco-sculpture-from-ancient-iberia/

Chicago Style

Wiener, James Blake. "Verrco Sculpture from Ancient Iberia." World History Encyclopedia. Last modified October 31, 2017. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/7507/verrco-sculpture-from-ancient-iberia/.

MLA Style

Wiener, James Blake. "Verrco Sculpture from Ancient Iberia." World History Encyclopedia. World History Encyclopedia, 31 Oct 2017. Web. 28 Feb 2025.

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