Cova de Les Maravelles

History of the Cave

The Cova de les Meravelles, located in the municipality of Xaló, in the Serra del Castellet de la Solana, is a 90-meter-deep cavity known for its geological and symbolic richness. Its 14-meter entrance is surrounded by large blocks, the result of a collapse. To the right, there is a sediment layer containing archaeological remains, probably from the pre-Neolithic period. Access to the inner chamber is through a rubble ramp, where animal remains and ceramic fragments have been found.

The first records date back to a letter from Father Bartolomé Ribelles, who mentioned it as a possible archaeological site. Later, Figueras Pacheco highlighted its stalagmitic formations. Recent explorations by the Alicante Speleological Group, led by enthusiasts such as José Soler Salva and Juan Giner, discovered painted ceramics, bone awls, and other fragments that could be pre-Neolithic.

The analysis of the ceramics, especially those decorated with zigzags, has been challenging due to the lack of a clear chronology. However, parallels have been found with nearby sites such as the Cova Ampla, suggesting that the ceramics date back to the Late Neolithic or Chalcolithic, with possible connections to the Bronze Age. Although an exact date has not been established, the findings enrich the understanding of local prehistory.

Visiting the Cave

Closed in 2008 due to vandalism and looting, it has been reopened after a €70,000 restoration project. The work included the removal of graffiti, the protection of damaged areas, and the creation of a route with handrails and dim lighting. Additionally, medieval Christian engravings were discovered, indicating ancient purification rituals. The cave combines history, nature, and spirituality, and is now accessible under conservation measures.

For more information and visits, contact the Xaló Museum

Sources: Department of Ancient History, University of Valencia, 1983