Museo Arqueológico de Yecla

Located in the charming town of Yecla in the Region of Murcia, Spain, the Museo Arqueológico Municipal Cayetano de Mergelina, often referred to as MAYE, offers visitors a fascinating journey through time. Housed in the historic Casa Municipal de Cultura, formerly the 18th-century Palacio de los Ortega, this museum is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders that span from the Prehistoric era to the Middle Ages.

The History of the Museo Arqueológico de Yecla

The origins of the Museo Arqueológico de Yecla can be traced back to 1958 when the first archaeological collection was displayed in the Casa Municipal de Cultura. This collection included artifacts from the 1870 excavations at the Iberian sanctuary of Cerro de los Santos by the Escolapio Carlos Lasalde Nombela. The collection initially formed part of the antiquities cabinet of the Escolapios Schools of Yecla.

In 1983, the museum was officially established, incorporating the municipal archaeological collection. Its inauguration marked the beginning of a new era for the preservation and exhibition of Yecla's rich archaeological heritage. The museum became part of the Regional Network of Museums of the Autonomous Community of Murcia, solidifying its status as a key cultural institution.

The museum underwent a significant restoration and rehabilitation in June 2012, with an investment of 406,000 euros. This effort was supported by the Region of Murcia and the City Council of Yecla. The museum was then renamed the Museo Arqueológico Cayetano de Mergelina in honor of the esteemed archaeologist closely linked to the town.

Exploring the Museum

As you step into the Museo Arqueológico de Yecla, you are greeted by the grandeur of the Palacio de los Ortega. This beautiful 18th-century building, with its intricate architectural details and historic charm, sets the stage for the journey through Yecla's past. The museum is divided into four main sections, each representing a different period in history: Prehistory, the Iberian Culture, Romanization, and the Middle Ages.

Prehistory

The Prehistory section of the museum takes you back to a time before written records. Here, you will find fascinating artifacts made from stone and bone, as well as examples of rock art. The exhibition begins with the Paleolithic era, showcasing the earliest human communities who were hunters and gatherers. Notable finds from this period include tools discovered in the areas of Fuente Principal and El Madroño, dating back to around 30,000 BCE.

The Neolithic period marks a significant shift with the advent of agriculture and animal husbandry. This era is represented by artifacts from the Monte de los Secos settlement and rock art from Monte Arabí, dating from the 5th to the 4th millennium BCE. One of the highlights of this section is the Petroglifo Esteliforme, known as La Rosa de los Vientos, from the Las Tobarrillas site.

The Iberian Culture

The Iberian Culture section focuses on the period from 500 to 218 BCE. This era is characterized by the development of complex societies with distinct cultural practices. The museum's collection includes remarkable sculptures and artifacts from the Cerro de los Santos site, providing insight into the religious and social life of the Iberian people. The Dama Oferente, a well-preserved offering figure, is a notable highlight from this period.

Romanization

The Romanization section covers the period from the 2nd century BCE to the 5th century CE. This era saw the integration of the Iberian Peninsula into the Roman Empire, bringing significant changes to the region's culture and infrastructure. Artifacts from the Torrejones site illustrate the Roman influence on local architecture, daily life, and trade. Visitors can explore a variety of Roman artifacts, including pottery, tools, and coins, that paint a vivid picture of life during this transformative period.

The Middle Ages

The Middle Ages section of the museum spans from the 8th to the 16th centuries, covering both the Islamic and Christian periods of Yecla's history. The exhibition highlights the Islamic influence on the region, with artifacts from the Hisn Yakka site, and the subsequent Christian reconquest. The collection includes a range of objects, from everyday items to religious artifacts, providing a comprehensive view of life during this dynamic period in history.

The Building and Its Significance

The Museo Arqueológico de Yecla is housed in the Casa Municipal de Cultura, an 18th-century building that was originally the Palacio de los Ortega. Acquired by the Portillo family in 1888, the palace underwent significant renovations, including the addition of beautiful stained-glass windows representing the family's coat of arms. These windows, created by the Maumejean workshops in San Sebastián, add a touch of early 20th-century elegance to the building.

In 1983, the City Council of Yecla purchased the building and transformed it into the Casa Municipal de Cultura. The 2012 restoration further enhanced the building's historical and cultural significance, making it a fitting home for the Museo Arqueológico de Yecla. In addition to the archaeological museum, the Casa Municipal de Cultura also houses the Museum of El Greco Replicas, the Public Library, the Municipal Historical Archive, the Pintor Rico López Museum Room, the Municipal Exhibition Hall, and the Pablo Corbalán Auditorium.

The Museo Arqueológico de Yecla is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in archaeology and history. Its extensive collection of artifacts, beautifully curated exhibitions, and the historic setting of the Casa Municipal de Cultura offer a unique and enriching experience. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, the museum provides a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Yecla and its surrounding region.