After our excitement in Elche we were keen to visit the historic site of Ilici, which was the original settlement which became Elche. La Alcudia, the hill, is the place name of Arabic origin by which the site of Ilici has been known since mediaeval times. The site is owned by the University of Alicante and houses a museum and preserved arcaeological remains. This is where the Lady of Elche was discovered.
This is a large site that spans over 6000 years of history. It commenced with the Neolithic period (5000 BC) and was in use until the beginning of the Islamic period in the 8th century. It’ most important periods were the Iberian, Roman and late Roman eras.
Until a few years ago, the site was a farm. It also lies within Elche’s Palm grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an unusual mixture of farmland, palm grove and historic monument.
This was quite an exposed site and it was very quiet when we visited. As it is a work in progress, it would certainly bear another visit in the future.