Urci facts for kids

Urci was an ancient town in the southeastern part of what was once the Roman Empire in Hispania (which is now Spain). Important historians like Pomponius Mela, Pliny the Elder, and Claudius Ptolemy wrote about it. They said Urci was located inland from today's Villaricos, near the lower part of the Almanzora River.

Discovering the Ancient Town of Urci

Historians believe Urci was a significant settlement in ancient times. It was located in a region that is now part of Almería, Spain. Some people have mistakenly thought Urci was in other places like Pechina or the city of Almería itself. But the old writings point to the area around the Almanzora River.

What Do We Know About Urci?

Urci might be the town that made special coins in the 2nd century. These coins had an ancient writing called 'Urkesken' on them. These coins are similar to others found from places like Kelin and Ikalesken. These other towns were located more inland in Spain.

Saint Indaletius and Urci

A very important person named Saint Indaletius is connected to Urci. He was a Christian missionary in the 1st century. This was a time when Christianity was just starting to spread. Tradition says that Saint Indaletius traveled to Urci to teach people about Christianity. He is believed to have become the first bishop of Urci. A bishop is a leader in the Christian church. Saint Indaletius is now honored as the patron saint of Almería, Spain. Some stories say he was martyred, meaning he died for his beliefs, in Urci.

Today, Urci is still recognized by the Catholic Church as a "titular diocese." This means it's a historical church area, even though there isn't a bishop living there now.

See also

• In Spanish: Urci para niños