Lady of Elche

The Lady of Elche (Spanish: Dama de Elche, Valencian: Dama d'Elx) is a limestone bust that was discovered in 1897, at La Alcudia, an archaeological site on a private estate two kilometers south of Elche, Spain. It is now exhibited in the National Archaeological Museum of Spain in Madrid.

Lady of Elche
Dama de Elche
TypeBust
MaterialLimestone
Height56 cm (22 in)
Width45 cm (18 in)
Depth37 cm (15 in)
Weight65.08 kg (143.5 lb)
Discovered1897
La Alcudia, Elche
Discovered byManuel Campello Esclápez
PlaceNational Archaeological Museum
CultureIberians

It is generally known as an Iberian artifact from the 4th century BC, although the artisanship suggests strong Hellenistic influences. According to The Encyclopedia of Religion, the Lady of Elche is believed to have a direct association with Tanit, the goddess of Carthage, who was worshiped by the Punic-Iberians.

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