The construction with cob balls of Caramoro i (Elche, Alicante): Identification of a new earth building technique in an Argaric settlement

Abstract

In this article, we present some singular earth building remains documented in the Argaric Bronze Age settlement of Caramoro I (Elche, Alicante). These show the use of a construction technique almost unrecognised to date in the Prehistory of the Iberian Peninsula. Mud modelled in pieces, or cob balls, were used towards the end of the occupation of the site, to rebuild and coat part of some of the external walls. Identifying this technique is especially important due to the difficulties in distinguishing it in the archaeological record from others, such as hand-made adobe bricks. Therefore, it is crucial that we try to differentiate and define them, and to contribute to the correct use of earth building terminology applied to archaeological construction remains.