Ancient City Lost for 1,000 Years Possibly Found in Spain

A group of researchers in southern Spain may have uncovered the location of an ancient, long-lost 10th-century city once central to Islamic rule in the region. Experts believe the area near the Pendolillas hills, just east of Córdoba, could be the remains of Madinat al-Zāhira, a royal palace-city thought to have vanished more than 1,000 years ago.

Led by Antonio Monterroso Checa of the University of Córdoba, the research combines historical records with modern scanning technology to offer what many experts are calling the most convincing evidence yet for the city’s location. The discovery sheds light on a mystery that has puzzled historians and archaeologists for centuries.

More than twenty possible sites had been suggested for Madinat al-Zāhira over the years, but none had provided enough physical proof—until now. Checa’s team believes they may have finally found solid ground for the once-flourishing political center that briefly served as the seat of power under the influential figure Almanzor.

Advanced mapping technology reveals ancient lost city layout in Spain

The discovery was made possible using high-resolution scanning data known as LiDAR, provided freely by Spain’s National Geographic Institute. This technique allows researchers to detect patterns beneath the surface by stripping away modern vegetation and structures in digital form.

In the area east of Córdoba, the scans revealed an organized pattern of rectangular and square formations stretching over a large area—nearly 300 acres. The layout appears intentionally designed, showing signs of planned streets and terraced constructions that follow the natural slope of the land. Some parts of the layout align in a southeastern direction, which may hold cultural or religious significance.

The size of the site closely matches that of Madinat al-Zahra, a known royal city built in the same era, strengthening the possibility that this is indeed its lesser-known counterpart.

From forgotten ruins to historical landmark

Madinat al-Zāhira is believed to have been built during a time of political strength but disappeared quickly after the fall of Almanzor in the early 11th century. Historical accounts suggest the city was dismantled and repurposed, erasing much of its physical presence and turning it into a legend rather than a known location.

Checa emphasizes that their conclusions are based on measurable findings, supported by historical documents and geographical analysis. In addition to its likely past as a political hub, the area has long carried royal importance. From the 15th century onward, it was used as royal land and eventually became home to Spain’s Royal Stud Farms under King Philip II. Researchers suggest this ongoing royal use may reflect a deeper historical connection.

The discovery could reshape how historians understand medieval Islamic rule in Spain, particularly regarding how cities were designed, governed, and eventually abandoned. It may also open new opportunities for heritage tourism and archaeological preservation in the Córdoba region.

If future excavations confirm the discovery, Madinat al-Zāhira will no longer be just a footnote in history books—it could take its place as a key part of Spain’s medieval heritage.