Las Merchanas Hill Fort is a pre-Roman Vettonian settlement located in Lumbrales, Salamanca, within the protected Arribes del Duero Natural Park, representing one of the region's most significant Celtic fortifications. Built by the Vettons, a Celtic-influenced people, and inhabited through Roman times between the 5th century BCE and 5th century CE, the fort occupies two hilltop positions protected by the Río Camaces valley. The site preserves its nearly complete defensive wall system, accessible through two remaining gateways and doors, along with characteristic scattered stone remnants from the Roman occupation period. A notable Iron Age verraco sculpture from the fortress, now displayed in Lumbrales' central plaza, stands over 1.2 meters tall and dates back approximately 2,500 years, testifying to the settlement's ancient cultural significance and strategic importance.
