Summary
- The historic Palacio de Rubalcava in Orihuela has completed a €4.5 million restoration after years of neglect.
- Restoration started in March 2023, faced delays, and uncovered an critically important 11th-century Andalusian bath complex during excavation.
- The palace will reopen as the “Palacio Rubalcava – Museum of the City,” featuring permanent and temporary exhibits alongside a restaurant and cafe.
- The project aims to transform the building into a cultural and historical hub for Orihuela residents and visitors.
- the Andalusian baths discovery highlights Orihuela’s rich medieval heritage, with plans to protect and integrate the remains into the palace grounds.
A New Chapter for Orihuela’s Historic Palacio de Rubalcava
After years of abandonment and delays, the prestigious Palacio de rubalcava in orihuela has officially completed its extensive rehabilitation.The restoration project, which began in March 2023 with a budget that eventually rose to €4.5 million, now allows the city council to prepare the palace for public enjoyment and cultural activities.
From Neglect to Revival: The Restoration Journey
The palace, originally built between the 1920s and 1930s and acquired by Orihuela’s Ayuntamiento in 1981, experienced decades of varied use before falling into disrepair. Previously hosting civil wedding ceremonies, a tourism office, and even the headquarters of the moros y Cristianos Association, the building gradually deteriorated.
Readiness for the restoration took years due to government coalition negotiations and unforeseen complications during the works. At one point, excavations revealed the risk of falling debris, prompting the closure of surrounding streets and a temporary halt. An approved budget modification during a city council meeting helped cover these extra costs.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Start Date | March 2023 |
| Final cost | €4.5 million |
| Original Uses | Weddings, Tourism Office, Associations |
| New Designation | Palacio Rubalcava – Museum of the City |
What to Expect: A Museum, Restaurant, and More
The refurbished palace is set to become a central cultural landmark known as Palacio Rubalcava – Museo de la Ciudad. The aim is to celebrate Orihuela’s history with permanent and temporary museum exhibitions throughout the building. The ground floor will accommodate a restaurant and a café, making it a vibrant space for locals and tourists alike.
While no official public opening date has been announced, city officials promise that visitors will soon have a chance to explore this meticulously restored landmark, which embodies “culture, history, and pride” for the community.
Uncovering the Past: The Discovery of 11th-Century Andalusian Baths
One of the most exciting surprises during the restoration was the discovery of an underground Andalusian bath complex, dating back to the 11th century, in the northern garden area adjacent to Plaza de Santiago. This finding was revealed during excavations for installing a firewater reservoir.
The bath complex includes a heated room equipped with a hypocaust heating system – an ancient technique where hot air circulates beneath the floor through brick pillars. The excavated bath measures approximately 5.5 by 3 meters,with an adjoining chamber and several unexplored access points leading to additional spaces.
According to Matías Ruiz, the councilor for Urbanism and Historical Heritage, the find is of “enormous relevance,” enriching Orihuela’s medieval historical narrative.
Plans for the Andalusian baths
Currently, the archaeological remains are under integral protection, and plans for their musealization will be developed once the palace’s restoration is fully complete. The goal is to integrate these ancient structures into the garden’s design, ensuring public accessibility and appreciation without compromising their preservation.
Why the Palacio de Rubalcava Matters
- Cultural Importance: The palace is emblematic of Orihuela’s architectural and social history, representing the community’s identity across centuries.
- Educational Resource: The museum will provide new educational opportunities about local history and heritage.
- Tourism Boost: Enhanced tourist appeal through a combined cultural, culinary, and historical experience.
- Heritage Preservation: The project safeguards valuable medieval artifacts while breathing new life into a neglected site.
The Palacio de Rubalcava stands poised to become a beacon of history, culture, and pride for Orihuela’s residents and visitors. as it opens its doors soon, it promises to offer a unique window into the past while serving as an inviting space for community gatherings.
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