Elche unearths 1,000-year-old Islamic capital in Arab baths

Archaeological excavations at the Arab baths near the Central Market in Elche have uncovered a limestone capital and a hexagonal column shaft dating back to the Caliphate or Taifa periods (10th–11th centuries).

Mayor Pablo Ruz and municipal archaeologist Víctor Cañavate announced the find at the Archaeological and Historical Museum of Elche (MAHE). The capital features Corinthian-style decoration with simplified acanthus leaves. While the pieces were found in an area where they had been reused as structural filler during the Christian era, researchers believe they may have been part of the original Andalusi bath structure.

This discovery marks the first time an Islamic capital of this type has been found and preserved in the city. Officials noted that the find provides significant new insights into the ancient Islamic medina of Elche, highlighting the urban center's architectural importance during the Muslim era.