The Quesera de Zonzamas is one of the most singular elements within the archeology of Lanzarote. It is located near the town of Zonzamas, between the mountains of Zonzamas and Maneje, with views of Arrecife. The structure consists of five channels carved into a block of porous basalt, measuring 3.90 meters in diameter. It features five grooves, each 30 centimeters high and ranging in width from 27 to 45 centimeters, with projections varying between 30 and 50 centimeters. The channels are closed at both ends and are oriented to the northwest.
Its name refers to the resemblance to a gigantic mold for making cheese, although its purpose is unrelated to cheese-making. To this day, the exact function of these channels remains an enigma. Some experts suggest that they may have been used as shelter for livestock, grain stores, or even water reservoirs. Another theory proposes that they might have been used for religious purposes, perhaps as places of worship or tombs.
Despite the uncertainty regarding their exact use, these aboriginal cheese makers are considered an important testimony to the culture and history of Lanzarote.
Associated with the Quesera de Zonzamas are engravings of foot silhouettes, known as podomorphs.
Estación de rock carvings composed of two sectors of one and five panels respectively, with a total of fourteen silhoue...
Additionally, about 50 meters from the Quesera de Zonzamas, there is a circular religious construction known as an efequen, a typical structure found in Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. This circular stone formation is believed to have served as a tagoror, a public gathering place used by the ancient Canarian inhabitants for meetings and discussions on important matters.
Information is also available about two additional cheesemakers. One of them is La Quesera de Bravo, and the other was discovered during an excavation of house foundations in San Bartolomé, although it was later destroyed.
La Quesera de Bravo, is located in the middle of Malpaís de La Corona, close to the Jameos del Agua, not far from a ser...