The complex was declared a National Historic-Artistic Monument in 1931.
It served as the residence of the Lords of Elche during the Middle Ages.
The museum integrates the palace's original medieval structure with a contemporary subterranean wing.
The site contains archaeological evidence of continuous human occupation in Elche since the Bronze Age.
The palace's main tower (Torre del Homenaje) retains its original Almohad defensive design elements.
The Palau dels Altamira, also known as the Altamira Palace or Alcázar de la Señoría, serves as the primary seat of the MAHE (Archaeological and History Museum of Elche). The structure incorporates a 12th-century Almohad defensive tower integrated into a later 15th-century palace built by the Count of Altamira. Its architecture features a blend of medieval fortifications and Renaissance-era structural modifications. The site is physically connected to the Municipal Park of Elche and overlooks the Vinalopó River. The interior museum galleries utilize modern underground exhibition spaces to display artifacts ranging from the Iberian period to the 20th century. Visitors can access the palace's ramparts, which offer views of the surrounding palm groves. The site acts as a key repository for local history, housing remnants of the original fortress walls.
The view from the palace ramparts looking out over the dense palm groves of the Elche Palmeral.
Visit the ramparts first to gain an aerial perspective of the Elche Palmeral before exploring the subterranean galleries.
Combine your visit with a walk through the adjacent Municipal Park to see the full extent of the historic palm oasis.
Check the MAHE website for temporary exhibition schedules as they rotate frequently.
Do not attempt to view the exhibits without first visiting the ground-level introductory displays, which provide crucial context for the chronologically arranged collections.
Typically closed on certain public holidays; check the MAHE website for specific dates before arrival.
Maintain a quiet tone inside the museum galleries; photography is generally permitted without flash.
