Costa Blanca South

Orihuela prepares to open Los Saladares to the public after excavation phase ends

Published

2 weeks ago

April 10, 2026

admin

Excavation work at Los Saladares in Orihuela prepares the site for future public visits
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Orihuela

Orihuela is moving closer to opening one of its most important archaeological sites to the public, as excavation work at Los Saladares reaches its final stage. The development, confirmed on April 10 by the local council, marks a shift from years of research towards making the site accessible as a cultural and educational space.

Years of research bring the site to a turning point

Los Saladares is considered one of the most significant protohistoric sites in southeast Spain. Excavations carried out in collaboration with the University of Alicante have helped uncover layers of history dating from the 9th to the 2nd century BC.

The latest campaign involved a multidisciplinary team of archaeologists, researchers, and students, building on several years of ongoing study. Recent findings have strengthened the importance of the site, particularly in understanding early settlements and external influences in the area. Discoveries linked to Phoenician presence near the Segura river mouth have added new context to how local communities interacted with early Mediterranean cultures.

From excavation site to visitable space

With the excavation phase now largely complete, the focus is shifting towards conservation and public access. The council plans to transform the area into a visitable site, allowing residents and visitors to explore the remains through guided routes and informative displays.

Plans include the creation of marked paths, explanatory panels, and a structured layout designed to make the archaeological remains accessible without compromising their preservation. This transition reflects a broader trend across Spain, where archaeological sites are increasingly being adapted for public engagement, rather than remaining closed research areas.

A new cultural attraction for Orihuela

For Orihuela, the opening of Los Saladares represents more than just a heritage project. It offers the potential to expand the city’s cultural tourism, adding a new dimension beyond its historic centre and religious landmarks. The site provides insight into some of the earliest settlements in the region, offering visitors a different perspective on the area’s history. Local officials see this as an opportunity to strengthen Orihuela’s cultural identity while also attracting visitors interested in archaeology and history.

Opening plans begin to take shape

Although an exact opening date has not yet been confirmed, preparations are now moving towards making the site accessible to the public. Work will focus on preserving the remains while introducing elements that allow visitors to understand and move through the space safely. This includes pathways, signage, and guided interpretation designed to explain the historical importance of the site without affecting its structure.

The shift marks a clear change in how Los Saladares will be experienced. What was once a closed research site is now being prepared as a place people can visit and explore. For Orihuela, this adds a new layer to its cultural offer, connecting its ancient past with present-day tourism. As the project progresses, Los Saladares is expected to become a key point of interest for those looking to discover a lesser-known part of the region’s history.

Related Topics:Costa Blanca South Los Saladares

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Costa Blanca South

Costa Blanca South newspaper 23 – 29 Apr 2026

Published

11 hours ago

April 23, 2026

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Euro Weekly News delivers the latest news and events for Quesada, Torrevieja, Orihuela, Rojales and Benijofar all in one place in English.

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Restaurante Los Cucalos: Traditional Mediterranean Dining In Orihuela

Published

1 day ago

April 22, 2026

Natascha Rivera

restaurante-los-cucalos:-traditional-mediterranean-dining-in-orihuela

Traditional Orihuela restaurant excels with paella, atmosphere and family appeal. Photo Credit: Restaurante Los Cucalos

One of the standout eateries of Orihuela, Restaurante Los Cucalos, offers a distinctly traditional take on Mediterranean dining, with a strong emphasis on family, flavour and familiarity. Established in the late 1980s and still running across generations, the restaurant leans heavily into its identity as a place where meals are not just eaten but shared as experiences, and has quickly become a local favourite with its laid-back, country house atmosphere and mouth-watering rice dishes.

Rice dishes in the heart of Orihuela

The menu is extensive, but its heart clearly lies in rice dishes and paellas, which have become its signature. Options range from classic seafood paella to more elaborate combinations like lobster rice or rabbit with snails, all prepared using time-honoured techniques. Alongside these, diners can choose from a wide variety of tapas, fresh fish and grilled meats, ensuring there is something to suit most tastes.

What stands out most at Restaurante Los Cucalos is the establishment’s commitment to freshness and Spanish tradition. Ingredients are carefully selected, with an emphasis on Mediterranean produce and daily catches, contributing to meals that feel both authentic and generous.

A warm atmosphere and flavourful Spanish dishes

The atmosphere is warm, designed to accommodate everything from casual lunches to large celebrations. With spacious interiors, outdoor seating and even a children’s play area, which is especially popular in the summer months, it caters particularly well to families and larger gatherings.

The outdoor area is perfect for enjoying the warm summer months in Orihuela, an open-air area adorned by string lights that locals love to spend time in. Whether for a family get-together or a romantic dinner, Restaurante Los Cucalos proves itself as a versatile venue.

Overall, Restaurante Los Cucalos succeeds in delivering a classic Mediterranean dining experience rooted in tradition, generosity and a welcoming atmosphere. According to the restaurant’s official website, “The warm and traditional atmosphere will make you feel right at home.”

T. 965 97 66 39

restaurantecucalos.com

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Orihuela To Host 37th Regional School Theatre Showcase

Published

2 days ago

April 21, 2026

Natascha Rivera

orihuela-to-host-37th-regional-school-theatre-showcase

Orihuela hosts 37th school theatre showcase with 27 performances. Photo Credit: Orihuela Town Hall

ORIHUELA is preparing to host the 37th edition of the Regional School Theatre Showcase, which this year will feature 27 special performances at the Circus Theatre. The event, which for nearly four decades has brought together students from educational centres all over the Vega Baja region, has been firmly established as a source of local pride and unites the students with a love for theatre.

A programme to celebrate theatre in Orihuela

The programme, which will take place from May 5 to May 28, includes a wide variety of styles and stage productions, from classical theatre to contemporary and innovative works. The project includes performances of famous works, including:

Lost in Translation, Toc-Toc, The Gods or Cinderella (IES Tháder)
Trash TV (IES Mare Nostrum)
Punch and Judy (Reverse Version) (IES Santiago Grisolía)
Scarlet Theorem (MUDIC Jesús Carnicer)
The Magic of Emotions, The Wizard of Oz, Shrek, Cantar Mio Cid or The Play That Goes Wrong (Jesús María San Agustín)
Cinderella Who Didn’t Expect a Prince (CEIP San Bartolomé)
The Pied Piper of Hamelin, Saint George and the Dragon, Beauty and the Beast or Enchantment (Oratorio Festivo)
Peter Pan Musical (Santo Domingo)
The World Upside Down or The Darlings (Virgen de Montserrate de Torremendo)

The event fosters essential values including camaraderie, teamwork, and creativity. The project allows students to enter the world of art and theatre, as well as develop important communicative skills and, above all, foster and facilitate group work among them.

Admission will be free for all audiences, though the Orihuela Department of Education recommends making a reservation in advance through the Teatro Circo to help organize attendance.

With this project, the students’ hard work onstage will reflect the talent, effort, and commitment of schools throughout the Vega Baja region, and re-affirm Orihuela’s place as a cultural and artistic hotspot on the Costa.