The Dolmen of El Alto de la Huesera is a significant megalithic monument located in the municipality of Laguardia, Araba. Situated on the Alto de la Huesera, a hill known as Cerro del Gancho, this dolmen is considered the finest prehistoric structure in the Rioja Alavesa.
Archaeological studies date the dolmen to the Chalcolithic and Bronze Ages, indicating its use as a collective burial site during these periods. The structure is characterized by a corridor-type design, featuring a polygonal burial chamber formed by six large sandstone slabs, enclosing a space with a diameter of approximately 2.65 meters. A passageway leads to this chamber, both originally covered by flat stone slabs. The entire monument was once surrounded by a circular tumulus of earth and stones, which has suffered damage over time due to agricultural activities in the area.
Excavations have revealed a significant amount of human skeletal remains within the dolmen ( over 1000 humans ), along with flint tools and other artifacts, providing valuable insights into the burial practices and material culture of the prehistoric communities that inhabited the region.
The Dolmen del Alto de la Huesera is part of a broader network of megalithic sites in the Rioja Alavesa, which includes other notable dolmens such as La Chabola de la Hechicera and El Encinal.
Today, the site is accessible to visitors interested in archaeology and history. Informational panels at the location provide explanations about the dolmen’s construction, function, and archaeological significance, enhancing the educational experience for those who visit.


