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By Dee McMath
Marzuela Arabic Baths
Baños Arabes de Marzuela
Recent archaeological excavations reveal that these
Arabic Baths date back to the 13th century, during the Almohade
era. This exceptional example of urban Arabic baths is in the ancient
sector of Marzuela (currently known as the Santiago quarter). It
is very well maintained and consists of the three main areas: the
‘bayt al-barid’ (cold room); the ‘bayt al-wastani’
(warm room) and the ‘bayt as’sajum’ (hot room).
The recent excavations have allowed for the recovery of other original
parts of the baths, such as the main entrance door or ‘maslaj’,
amongst other things. The restoration continues and in the meantime,
these are certainly considered one of the most authentic and complete
Arabic Baths in Spain.
The Alcazaba
Although today there are only parts of the protective walls and various watchtowers still standing, the Alcazaba of Baza was a force to be reckoned with in its day, to the point of being virtually impenetrable. It was built throughout the different times of occupation beginning in 11 th Century, with construction finishing in the 16 th Century during the time of the Christians. It is in the centre of the Historic Centre of the town, dominating the ancient Medina.
The Iberian/Roman City of Basti
Ciudad Ibero / Romaa de Basti
At just three kilometres outside of the town of Baza is the site of the Iberian/Roman City of Basti. This was one of the main fortified cities in Spain, of such importance that it was given the name of what was then the whole of Eastern area of Andalucia, parts of Albacete and Murcia. It is thought to date as far back as 800 BC and was also later occupied by the Visigoths and the Byzantines. It was at the start of the Middle Ages that it was abandoned and the people moved to what is today the town of Baza.
Iberian Necrópolis, Sanctuary Hill
Necrópolis Ibérica de Cerro
Santuario
Near the site of the city of Basti, is this necropolis
where, in 1971, the famous ‘Dama de Baza’ was
discovered. As well as the ‘Dama’ herself, some 180
ancient tombs were excavated dated as far back as 600 BC.
Villa Romana
Within the town of Baza there has been the recent discovery of remains of a Roman estate. It is partly excavated and is situated next to the Alcribite (in Arabic ‘Azufre’) sulphur spring fountain.
Throughout the municipality of Baza there are numerous
archaeological digs and investigations dating back to Neolithic
times and right up through the Middle Ages.
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