The province of Teruel in Spain just became a little more famous, thanks to an unexpected visit by actor Johnny Depp. While in town to film a commercial, Depp received a unique gift that connects him directly to the region’s ancient past—an exquisite bracelet inspired by jewelry over 2,000 years old.
The piece was presented by the Provincial Museum of Teruel, a cultural institution managed by the Diputación Provincial. Given the hotel’s proximity to the museum, the actor was invited to enjoy a private guided tour through the historic collection. To mark the occasion, museum representative Beatriz Martín gifted Depp a handcrafted silver-gilt bracelet. The design, featuring concentric circles and engraved with the word “Teruel,” is a reproduction based on rare pieces from the 4th and 3rd centuries BC found near the village of Jorcas.
This symbolic gesture not only links a Hollywood star to Spain’s cultural heritage, but also highlights the treasures that make Teruel a hidden gem for travelers interested in history and archaeology. According to Martín, Teruel is “a land rich in history, populated over centuries by many cultures,” and this kind of jewelry is just one example of the province’s priceless legacy. She also extended the invitation beyond celebrities, encouraging locals and tourists alike to explore the museum and discover its surprising collection.
Unearthing a Timeless Legacy
The Provincial Museum houses some of the most important archaeological discoveries in the region. Among its highlights is the treasure that inspired Depp’s bracelet—a stunning set of ancient Iberian and Celtiberian jewelry. These rare finds were uncovered near the archaeological site of La Muela, close to Jorcas. While the full context of the discovery remains unclear, experts place the artifacts within the cultural crossroads between Iberian and Celtiberian traditions.
The collection includes a rigid torques with geometric embossing, two gold earrings with stylized motifs and fine granulation, and two silver bracelets with open circular forms and plate-like ends. Though similar items have been found in other parts of the Iberian Peninsula—such as Villena, Líria, Soria, and Benicarló—examples like those from Teruel remain rare and exceptionally well-preserved.
The third floor of the museum is dedicated to this extraordinary exhibit, providing visitors with a deep dive into the prehistoric and pre-Roman cultures that once thrived in the region. Alongside these ancient treasures, the museum offers a carefully curated experience that showcases the evolution of the province’s identity, using rigorous scientific interpretation to tell its story.
The gesture toward Depp was more than just a celebrity moment—it was a celebration of Teruel’s enduring connection to its past. And for travelers looking for something beyond Spain’s usual tourist hotspots, this province offers a rich and authentic detour into ancient artistry, heritage, and quiet charm.
Would you plan a trip to Teruel for its archaeological wonders and quiet cultural gems? Tell us in the comments below!
