Seek and ye shall find

RUINS FOUND: The remains are in a terrific condition.

A MAJOR archaeological discovery has been unearthed during the initial phase of construction of a new hotel in the heart of Estepona.

As earth was being excavated, the well-preserved remains of a medieval tannery gradually came into view, leading the council to call in experts.

The ruins date from the 11th and 12th centuries, and comprise five round and four rectangular pools which would have been used for treatment of leather and fur.

Historical Heritage councillor, Jose Maria Guerrero, was ecstatic as he explained that the remains are in a “terrific condition, and the find is one of the most important of its type in the entire Iberian peninsula.”

Municipal archaeologist, Ildefonso Navarro, added that a 14th century pottery kiln has also been uncovered nearby, with both relics in a remarkably good state given the high water table at the site, which led to complications during the dig.

The remnants are located on the outskirts of the old city of Estebbuna, close to the Calancha River, as was traditional in towns of the period, when tanneries and other industrial buildings were located outside of the urban core.

Despite the apparent importance of the remains, the hotel’s construction will continue as planned, with the caveat that a glass floor is to be installed in the floor of the restaurant, allowing diners to gaze down on a slice of history as they tuck in.

 

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