During the redevelopment and pedestrianization works in the center of L'Eliana, specifically at the intersection of Major and General Pastor streets, a Civil War air-raid shelter has been uncovered. Archaeologist Carlos Verdasco inspected the find, indicating that considerable depth is initially perceived. The structure appears to consist of a simple gallery that could lead to a larger chamber, designed to shelter residents.
It has not yet been determined if the shelter has a second exit. However, some local residents claim its existence was known through family accounts passed down through generations. To accurately understand its layout and construction characteristics, accumulated material will need to be removed, and cleaning and excavation will proceed.
The City Council has already informed the Heritage department of the Conselleria (Regional Ministry) about the discovery. Upcoming actions will include cleaning the area, an inspection with a camera, and the creation of photographs, measurements, and plans to meticulously document the structure.
Mayor Salva Torrent emphasized the historical value of the find and the importance of ensuring its preservation. He recalled that this discovery adds to the known Civil War heritage in L'Eliana.
The municipality already preserves several trenches in the Entrepins area and has records of three previous shelters: one in the Plaça de l’Església, another between Major and Molí streets (which was later demolished), and the one now found during the Central Area works. According to available data, these constructions, although known, might not have been used during the conflict.
Torrent expressed the intention to develop a joint project in the future to valorize these historical elements. For the new discovery, the idea is to pursue integrated conservation within the urban space, protected by a glass surface and interior lighting that would allow observation from the outside. The aim is for it to become an element that helps explain local history to future generations.
