The siege of Numancia lasted for twenty years, becoming a symbol of heroic resistance in classical literature.
Excavations began in the early 20th century, led by archaeologist Adolf Schulten.
The city was strategically located on a high plateau, making it naturally difficult to siege.
Findings from the site are preserved and displayed at the Numantine Museum in nearby Soria city.
The reconstructed Celtiberian dwellings allow visitors to observe the specific layout and materials used by the Arevaci people.
Archaeologists have identified distinct 'Romanized' quarters built directly over the destroyed Celtiberian foundations.
Numancia is an Iron Age and Roman-era archaeological site located on the Cerro de la Muela, famous for its resistance against Roman forces during the Celtiberian Wars. The site features the remains of two distinct urban layouts: the pre-Roman Celtiberian village and the subsequent Roman city established after the conquest in 133 BC. Visitors can walk through reconstructed houses that demonstrate traditional domestic architecture from both cultures. Excavations have revealed defensive walls, streets, and thermal baths across the plateau. The site is situated at the confluence of the Tera and Duero rivers, providing defensive natural boundaries. Interpretive panels are placed throughout the ruins to provide historical context for the architectural foundations. The visitor center offers supplementary exhibits detailing the siege by Scipio Aemilianus. Ongoing archaeological research continues to refine the understanding of social structures in ancient Soria.
The perimeter of the plateau offers a wide-angle view of the reconstructed houses with the surrounding valley landscape as a backdrop.
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the terrain is unpaved, uneven, and exposed to the elements.
Bring sun protection and water, as there is very little shade across the open plateau.
Download or bring a printed map of the ruins before arriving to better navigate the various excavation sectors.
Do not mistake the modern town of Garray for the actual archaeological site; ensure you head up to the hill, not into the residential town center.
Closed on Mondays; hours vary significantly between the summer and winter seasons.
Stay on marked paths to preserve the integrity of the fragile archaeological ruins; do not climb on wall foundations.
