Elche's Hort del Gat Reopens as Palmeral Interpretation Center

The historic Hort del Gat in Elche has completed a multi‑million‑euro restoration and reopened as the new Centre of Interpretation for the UNESCO‑listed Palmeral. The project, costing over €2 million, was funded by the Generalitat Valenciana (€1.4 million) and the Elche City Council (€634,823 from Next Generation EU funds). Renovations restored more than 10,000 sqm of the historic garden, upgraded irrigation, improved access, and added accessible, energy‑efficient visitor spaces.

The inauguration was attended by regional culture secretary Marta Alonso and mayor Pablo Ruz, who highlighted the site's role in tourism and cultural education. A public celebration featured live music and a tour of the restored house, marking the garden’s return to the city’s tourist route and signalling further plans to revive other historic orchards in Elche.