Elche council urged to permanently return the Lady of Elche sculpture

On the 129th anniversary of its discovery, the regional party Compromís reiterated its long‑standing demand that the Iberian sculpture known as the Lady of Elche be returned permanently to the city of Elche. Spokesperson Esther Díez called on mayor Pablo Ruz to provide a clear, high‑level institutional position and urged the municipal government to act decisively. Compromís argues that the statue holds greater historical, cultural and tourism value for the local community than it does in its current location, and it has been lobbying the Ministry of Culture to secure a permanent handover. The party says the request enjoys broad public support among Ilicitans.