Emblematic objects for societies in transition. An archaeological and archaeometric study of the sword of Serral de ses Abelles (Puigpunyent, Mallorca)

This paper presents the study of a sword found in Talayot del Serral de ses Abelles (Puigpunyent, Mallorca). The remarkable state conservation this and fact that it is only item its kind documented 21st century an archaeological excavation make exceptional find. main purpose research to characterise technological significance. analytical information presented (14C, XRF, ICP-MS, radiography, metallography, micro-hardness LIA) makes possible dating one these objects for first time, provides important understand manufacturing process sword, functionality, social significance, as well aspects related provenance copper ores used. Thus, our essential emblematic items rather than functional weapons, contextualises them within Balearic Late Bronze Age societies broader Western Mediterranean trading routes.