Elche

On July 18, 1936, the Spanish Civil War erupted, deeply affecting Elche, as it was initially under Republican control. Elche faced bombings and shortages, and its agrarian economy was disrupted by the conflict. The war saw significant changes in social structures and increased political polarization. As the war progressed, Elche, like other areas in Spain, experienced the repurposing of churches and factories, and a shift in political power dynamics.

On June 15, 1977, Spain held its first democratic elections after the end of Francisco Franco's dictatorship. In Elche, this was a time of political transformation as people participated in the democratic process, influenced by the broader desire for political change throughout the country. It marked Elche's reintegration into democratic Europe and the population's engagement in shaping its future, reflecting the diverse political climate of the time.

On June 20, 1985, Elche Club de Fútbol (Elche CF) achieved its first promotion to Spain's top football division, La Liga. This marked a significant moment for the team and the city, boosting local morale and enhancing Elche's reputation in the national sports arena. Since then, Elche CF has become an integral part of the community, cultivating local talent and fostering a passionate fan base.

On April 6, 1997, a major archaeological discovery was made in La Alcudia, an ancient Iberian settlement near Elche. The site has been a rich source of artifacts, most famously, the bust of the Lady of Elche, an Iberian sculpture discovered in 1897. The 1997 excavations revealed significant Roman and Iberian structures, providing deeper insights into the region's historical timeline and the cultural influences over centuries.

On November 30, 2000, the Palmeral of Elche was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical significance and the ancient irrigation system that dates back to the time of the Arab conquest. The Palmeral, or palm grove, consists of thousands of date palms and is considered a remnant of an ancient agricultural landscape. It reflects the sophisticated agricultural practices brought by the Moors to Spain and is one of the largest palm groves in Europe.

In September 2005, Elche hosted one of its renowned International Footwear and Leather Goods Fairs, highlighting its position as a leading center in the footwear industry within Europe. The event attracts numerous international buyers and sellers, where new trends are showcased. Elche's Shoe Fair not only emphasizes the city's economic importance but also its role in global fashion trends and innovations in shoe manufacturing techniques.

The Misterio de Elche, or Mystery Play of Elche, is an annual liturgical drama dating back to the Middle Ages, performed in the Basilica de Santa Maria each August. On August 15, 2008, it was declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. This unique cultural event depicts the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and is characterized by medieval music and the use of a large apparatus for aerial scenes.

On November 2, 2011, Elche was officially declared a city by the regional government of Valencia, recognizing its importance in the industrial and agricultural sectors. This declaration emphasized Elche's evolution from a primarily agricultural economy to a robust industrial center, particularly known for its footwear industry, which is one of the most significant in Spain, producing millions of pairs of shoes annually and exporting them worldwide.

On November 1, 2013, Elche inaugurated a new contemporary art gallery, a significant cultural investment aimed at enriching the local artistic landscape. The gallery showcases works by both local and international artists, offering a dynamic space for contemporary art exhibitions. This initiative highlights Elche's commitment to promoting culture and the arts, fostering creative expression and dialogue within the community and beyond.

In September 2019, Elche experienced severe flooding due to the DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos) storm that affected large parts of southeastern Spain. The floods caused significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and agriculture in the area. Elche's response to the disaster involved emergency services mobilizing extensively to aid affected residents, showcasing the community's resilience and solidarity in the face of natural calamities.