El ánfora ática de la Cova dels Pilars (Agres, Alicante): una propuesta de lectura iconográfica en su contexto espacial ibérico. Con un apéndice de Julio González-Alcalde, La Cova dels Pilars en el contexto de las cuevas-santuario ibéricas

Abstract

The dispersed fragments of an Attic red-figured amphora dated in the second fourth of the 5th century BC, proceeding from the Cova dels Pilars (Agres, Alicante province) are analysed. This vessel shows the representation of an auleter and an ephebus with lyre and, on the back side, three young men. The amphora is placed in its Iberian context, as a possible monument that acquires a new sense in this singular precinct. It would be testimony and model for an ritual of initiation, that has been able to be developed in the extensive interior space of the cave. The place was frequented since Orientalizing period until Iberian-Hellenistic times. The Cova dels Pilars acts as a sanctuary that builds the sacred and political landscape in the valley of Agres, around the Iberian oppida of Mariola and La Covalta. It is a liminal space in relation to the territorial boundaries and the communication corridor of the valley.