A bargain buy from a market in Benalmadena hid something historical, only to be found years later

At a market in Benalmadena, an antique suitcase caught the eye of Jose Antonio Fernandez, who purchased it for a modest price. Little did he know, the simple purchase would lead to a historical discovery years later. Initially, the suitcase held a set of hand-drawn plans from 1886, but it was only upon further inspection that Fernandez noticed a corroded iron piece concealed within.

After researching the object, he believed it to be a key from the Nasrid period, a Muslim dynasty that ruled Granada between the 13th and 15th centuries and constructed the renowned Alhambra. The key measures 27 centimeters, features a square cross-section, and resembles the key linked to the Torre de la Vela, one of the Alhambra's towers.

Fernandez, who is also a handwriting expert, traced the manuscripts found in the suitcase to a figure connected to the Alhambra's restoration and conservation. While further study is needed to confirm his findings, he has already reached out to the Alhambra's governing board. The origins of the suitcase remain unknown, reportedly coming from a house clearance in Granada.

Fernandez retains the 1886 plans, which were once displayed at Benalmadena's local library, and welcomes any interested institutions in examining the intriguing find.