The Salzio Museum is dedicated to the master of Baroque polychrome (multi-color) sculptures, Francisco Salzio. The Pasarela-Jorge Manrique and Puente del Hospital bridges are two city structures whose design belongs to the hand of the master Santiago Calatrava.
Every Saturday at 11 am, the municipality of Murcia organizes a free guided tour of all the main attractions of the city.
Registration for the event is required and takes place at tourist office in Piazza di Cardinal Belluga. Gathering of guests and start of the tour there.
Events
Murcia hosts several festivals that deserve the attention of tourists. Sardine's Funeral - As part of the Spring Festival, this is the strangest holiday night with processions of eccentric figures like giants, demons and Brazilian samba bands accompanying 20 boats (each with a specific symbol of the holiday).
The Carnival of Águilas is a three-day spring festival featuring festive costumes of all kinds and colors, culminating in a battle with eggs and confetti after a speech between Don Carnival and Doña Cuaresma.
International Folklore Festival - teams from all over the world organize their national performances.
Murcia is a Spanish city and the capital of the province of the same name, located on the banks of the Segura River. It is located in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula 40 kilometers from the Costa Blanca. The population of Murcia is almost 450 thousand inhabitants and the city ranks 7th in the country in terms of population. Murcia is a developed agricultural center and also a city with a rich university tradition, since the first university was opened here in 1272.
Historians believe that the city was founded in 825 by order of the Emir of Cordoba Abd ar-Rahman. But there are also reasons to believe that the first human settlements appeared here during the Roman Empire. In the 13th century, after the conquest of the territory by the Spaniards, the kingdom of Murcia arose, and a few years later the city became part of the Castilian crown. The city was in decline for several centuries and regained its former power only in the 18th century thanks to the growth of the silk industry.
There are not many attractions in Murcia, however, the city is quite often visited by tourists due to its advantageous location near popular resorts on the Costa Blanca. Murcia is 80 km from Alicante and 50 km from. If you want to visit a city richer in attractions than Murcia, then you can (50 km from Murcia). Although Murcia is a very original and pretty city, worthy of a visit for at least 1-2 days.
Sights of Murcia
You can start your sightseeing in Murcia from pedestrian square Cardenal Belluga (Plaza del Cardenal Belluga), which is the central square in the old part of the city. Once upon a time there was a Muslim fortress called the Alcazaba, a typical structure during Moorish Spain. The square is the center of numerous celebrations, including religious ones, since the main cathedral of Murcia is located here.
1. Murcia Cathedral
Plaza Cardenal Beluga is home to several attractions of Murcia, including the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Catedral de Santa Maria), also known as the Cathedral of Murcia. It was built over half a century, the construction of the temple was completed in 1465. It is one of Murcia's most outstanding historical sites and was declared a National Monument in 1931.
Over many centuries, the temple building has undergone several significant reconstructions. For example, some additions were made to the architecture of the bell tower, and the chapels and facade were seriously modified. The main reconstruction work was carried out in the 16th and XVIII centuries, therefore, the architecture of the cathedral includes several directions in architecture: Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassicism. The height of the bell tower reaches 93 meters – it is the third largest bell tower in Spain. The bell tower contains 25 of the oldest bells, created in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Construction of the current episcopal palace began in 1748 under the direction of Bishop Juan Mateo. However, long before this, an episcopal palace had already been built in Murcia, which was demolished to provide a more panoramic view of the Cathedral. The modern palace building is a magnificent example of the Rococo and Baroque architectural style with square elements and luxurious decorative design of the facade.
One of the most luxurious buildings located very close to Plaza Cardenal Beluga is the Town Hall (Casa Consistoral or Ayuntamiento). It was built in 1848 in neoclassical style. On the facade of the building there is a balcony with four columns and two female sculptures of muses, symbolizing Abundance and Happiness. It is from this balcony that the mayor of Murcia greets citizens during official ceremonies.
The interior, as it should be, is very beautiful and expensive, which is worth only the elegant marble staircase. In front of the Town Hall there is a fountain and Monument to Cardinal Luis Antonio de Beluga y Moncada, in whose honor the central square of the city is named. He was a Spanish cardinal and bishop of the Diocese of Cartagena in Murcia. The statue is made of bronze and depicts a cardinal kneeling on one leg, holding a parchment in one hand and a sword in the other.
4. Murcia Casino
Casino of Murcia (Real Casino de Murcia), located in the city center near Cathedral, is one of the most emblematic buildings of the city. Construction of the casino building began in 1847; the façade is made in an eclectic style with classical and modern elements, which was common in the second half of the 19th century in Spain. In 1983, the Casino was declared national historical monument. Every year the building is visited by 150 thousand tourists, of which 25 thousand are foreigners.
The Casino of Murcia is not a gambling establishment, but elite men's club. It is especially important to note the luxurious interiors of the building, which attract tourists: a rich hall, a green courtyard in the Moorish style, monolithic columns, exquisite sculptures, a library and many artistic decorations. The casino is open from 10:30 to 19:00, the cost of admission is 5 euros, the price includes an audio guide.
In the old town there is another interesting attraction of Murcia - the Romea Theater (Teatro Romea) on the Giuliana Romea square of the same name. This is not only the main theater of the city, but also one of the most significant theaters in the country. It opened in 1862 with the production of “Man of the World,” played by the outstanding Spanish actor Julian Romea, after whom the theater is named. The façade of the building is built in an eclectic style, here you can see elements of neoclassical and modernist styles. At the top of the facade there are busts of three great composers: Beethoven, Mozart and Liszt.
The building suffered from severe fires and destruction twice, and was restored several times. After the last reconstruction, the theater was opened in 2012, its cultural program remains very diverse to this day. Theatrical, dance and musical performances of all possible genres are staged here. Teatro Romea included in the list cultural heritage. In Piazza Giuliana Romea there are several more historical buildings and beautiful palaces, so a stroll along it would also be worthwhile for tourists.
Another attraction of Murcia that definitely deserves your attention is the Flower Square in the old town (Plaza de las Flores). The square is very crowded and picturesque. Around the fountain, which is built in the center of the square, there are retail shops, flower stalls (hence the name of the square), shops, cafes, tropical trees and wooden benches. This is definitely one of the most charming and lively places in the city, where you can drink coffee and take a break from the pleading Spanish heat in the shade of the trees.
Among the main attractions of Murcia in the Flower Square, it is worth noting the three-story commercial building where the sale of fabrics took place in the 19th century (Edificio de Tejidos Abad). Also check out the bookstore (Edificio de la Libreria Almela)– a corner building with three floors with wrought iron balconies on the facade. Both buildings are listed as National Heritage Sites.
Malecon Park is used as place for relaxation and walks. To the main holidays The park hosts special events, gastronomic and craft markets. For tourists, the garden will be interesting from the point of view of a magnificent walking area and as a place to stay in the fresh air.
The luxurious green Floridablanca Garden (Jardín de Floridablanca) was created in the mid-19th century and is not only the oldest garden in Murcia, but also Spain's first public garden. It is located on the right bank of the Segura River in the authentic Carmen district, considered one of the most prestigious areas of the city. Currently, the Floridablanca garden covers an area of 11 thousand square meters. It is used for city fairs and celebrations, as well as a recreation area for local residents
The garden is named after the Spanish statesman José Moñino y Redondo, Count of Floridablanca; here you can see his monument. The Count was a member of the Council of Castile and became famous as the author of the report that led to the expulsion of the Jesuits. In addition, monuments were erected in the garden in honor of famous people of Murcia, for example, the sculptor Antonio Garrigos and the poets José Selgas-Carrasco and Pedro Jara Carrillo.
Terra Natura is a new generation zoo and one of the most interesting attractions in Murcia. Its main feature is Zoo immersion concept, where you can observe and interact with animals in a barrier-free environment. The natural habitat is recreated in the enclosures, which makes visiting the zoo surprisingly entertaining not only for children, but also for adults.
At the Terra Natura Zoo you can see 300 animals of 50 different species. Representatives of the hot Savannah and the Iberian Peninsula live here. The cost of visiting the zoo is 25 euros, for children 20 euros, in winter - 18 euros and 14 euros, respectively. The zoo is located 3 km from the city. A larger zoo is located in the city of Benidorm on the Costa Blanca, 100 km from Murcia.
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fuensanta (Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Fuensanta) located in the village of Alguezares, 4 km from Murcia. It began to be built in 1694 on the remains of a medieval cave hermitage in honor of the Holy Virgin, Our Lady of Fuensanta. At the end of the 17th century, a major drought occurred, and many believers turned to the Mother of God in prayer. After the pilgrimage to the temple, the drought ended and this amazing fact repeated several times.
Thanks to this, in the mid-eighteenth century, Our Lady of Fuensanta became patron saint of the city, and to this day the temple is of great importance to the inhabitants of Murcia. Pilgrimages take place here twice a year. The temple was built in Baroque style with a central nave and chapels on the sides. Its main facade is constructed of brick in the form of a stepped composition, which culminates in the bell tower. The interiors of the church are rich in works of art, among which the image of the Virgin of Fuensanta stands out.
The first mention of Monteagudo Castle dates back to Islamic times in 1078. The fortress was built as an observation post and defensive structure. The castle was also used as a place of detention for criminals. After the Reconquista, those close to the royal family lived in the Monteagudo fortress. Currently, archaeological excavations and reconstruction work are underway at the castle.
At the top of the hill is a majestic sculpture of Jesus Christ 14 meters high. The Monument to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ (Corazon de Jesus) was designed in 1951 and is a copy of a 1926 sculpture destroyed during the Second Spanish Republic.
Murcia sightseeing map
In order not to miss a single attraction in Murcia, save yourself a map of all the main places that you can see in Murcia in 1-2 days.
Where to stay in Murcia?
Murcia (Spain) - the most detailed information about the city with photos. The main attractions of Murcia with descriptions, guides and maps.
City of Murcia
Murcia - Big City in southeastern Spain and administrative center region of the same name. Located on the banks of the Segura River, 25 km from Mediterranean Sea. Murcia is a kind of compromise between a bustling metropolis and the province, a university city with a rich history, which is distinguished by calm and regularity.
Murcia and the entire region are famous throughout Spain for the excellent food and kindness of the local people, excellent sandy beaches and natural scenery. This is one of the largest agricultural provinces in the country, whose vegetables and fruits are exported to other European countries.
Geography and climate
Murcia is located in South-Eastern Spain on the banks of the Segura River. Average height above sea level 43 meters. The climate is Mediterranean. Summers are hot and dry, winters are mild and wet.
Practical information
- Population - 442.6 thousand people (seventh largest city in Spain).
- Area - 881.9 square kilometers.
- Language - Spanish.
- Currency - euro.
- Visa - Schengen.
- Time - Central European UTC +1, summer +2.
- Most restaurants and cafes serve lunch from 13.00 to 15.30, and dinner from 20.30 to 23.00.
- Stores have opening hours from Monday to Saturday from 9.30 to 13.30 and from 16.30 to 20.30. Supermarkets are open without breaks from 10.00 to 22.00.
Best time to visit
Story
Murcia was founded in the first half of the 9th century by the Emir of Cordoba. In the 12th century it was a prosperous and Big city, which was famous for its ceramics and silk.
By the mid-13th century, the city came under the protectorate of the Kingdom of Castile. After some time, the independent kingdom of Murcia arose, which at the end of the 13th century was captured by the king of the Aragonese kingdom, Jaime II. In 1304 the city finally became part of Castile.
Murcia lost its importance, but in the 18th century, thanks to the production of silk, it flourished again. In 1810, the city was sacked by Napoleon's troops. In 1829, Murcia was damaged by a powerful earthquake.
How to get there
Murcia has San Javier Airport with numerous domestic and international flights: Madrid, Barcelona, Brussels, Dublin, London, Oslo, Edinburgh, etc. Alicante airport is an hour's drive away. Murcia is also easily accessible by bus or train.
Shopping and purchases
Food and drink
Murcia is famous for its cuisine, tapas, wine, fresh fruit and vegetables. Traditional food:
- Berenjenas a la crema - creamy eggplants with ham (seafood)
- Caballitos - shrimp
- Ensalada cantonal - salad with fish and olive oil
- Ensalada murciana - salad with tomatoes, onions, eggs and tuna
- Habas crudas con bonito - bean salad
- Marinera - dish with anchovies
- Michirones - spicy beans with bacon
- Patatas con ajo - fried potatoes with garlic
- Pipirrana - salad with tomatoes, peppers, cucumber and sardines
- Pisto murciano - roasted peppers with eggplant and tomatoes
- Pulpo - octopus
- Tomate "partío" - olives, capers, anchovies
- Tortillas - tortilla (beans, garlic)
- Zarangollo - fried zucchini with onion and egg
High concentration of food establishments in the area of the cathedral and university.
Attractions
The most interesting sights and places in Murcia.
Cardinal Beluga Square is one of the central squares of Murcia and is home to two of the city's most famous landmarks.
The architectural dominant is the cathedral with a high 91-meter bell tower. Murcia Cathedral is one of the best examples of Spanish Baroque. This main symbol city and one of the most impressive structures in the entire region. Construction of the cathedral began in the 14th century. In the 16th century main cathedral Murcia received a baroque façade. The tower was rebuilt in the Renaissance architectural style around the same time.
The Bishop's Palace is an 18th-century building built on the site of the older Palacio Alcazar.
The casino is a monumental building built in the style of Andalusian palaces. It features a luxurious interior with frescoes.
Plaza de las Flores is a charming square in the center of Murcia. It got its name thanks to the numerous florist shops. A great stop to have a coffee and look at the Art Nouveau houses.
Floridablanca is a park on the opposite side of the Segura River. It is the city's oldest public park, open since the mid-19th century.
Santa Clara la Real Santa Clara la Real is a museum built on the site of a Moorish fortress.
Monteagudo Monteagudo is one of the symbols of the entire region, a castle near Murcia. This 9th-century fortress perches on a limestone cliff and is topped by a huge white statue of Christ. The castle was designed to withstand long sieges and was used by the Moors for defense for 250 years. After the conquest of Murcia by King Alfonso X, his residence was located here. A statue of Christ was added in the 1950s.
Not far from Murcia are the beaches of the Costa Cálida and the Costa Blanca. This is a great place for beach lovers.
The southern part of the Costa Blanca is home to cute little seaside towns. Torre de la Horadada offers stunning beaches and clear seas.
Murcia is a sun-drenched city in eastern Spain. Here you can enjoy delicious food, learn about the rich history of the region and admire the majestic Baroque architecture. It seems that no one is in a hurry in this city - even the Cathedral was built here for 300 years.
There are really a lot of attractions in Murcia, but don’t rush to see them all at once. Every day, choose no more than two objects from the list below, so that you have time to sit in cozy cafes or leisurely stroll through squares and parks. Here's an overview of what to see in Murcia.
Casino. | Photo: wikimedia. Casino de Murcia is a luxury casino that first opened in Murcia in 1847 as a gentlemen's club. The painstakingly restored building is a wonderful combination of historic architecture and luxury - reminiscent of the former greatness of the aristocracy.
Behind the facade with numerous decorative elements you will see: a wonderful courtyard - a Moorish patio; an interesting English-style library containing about 20,000 books; a fabulous ballroom with sparkling chandeliers; and a compelling boudoir (tocador) with ceiling frescoes depicting cherubs, angels and a woman with wings engulfed in fire.
Address: Real Casino de Murcia, Calle Traperia, 18, 30001 Murcia, Spain.
Cathedral in Murcia. | Photo: Colin Haycock / Flickr. The architecture of this city cathedral combines several architectural styles, but particular attention is drawn to the Baroque elements added in the 17th and 18th centuries. The main Baroque facade, facing the Cardenal Beluga Square, is stunning in its grandeur, thanks to the relief columns and the beautiful sculpture of the Virgin Mary with the Archangel above the main portal.
Inside there are numerous chapels with tombstones famous people of its time, but the tomb of King Alfonso X of Castile is especially noteworthy. It is impossible not to notice the 93-meter bell tower of the cathedral - it is considered the second tallest in Spain (after the Herald Tower in Seville).
It is noteworthy that its construction lasted for more than 250 years. By the time construction was completed in 1793, the architecture of the building combined elements of several styles - Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassicism.
Address: Cathedral of Murcia, Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, 1, 30001 Murcia, Spain.
Flores Square. Plaza de las Flores is located just west of the Cathedral. This is one of the most beautiful city squares. It got its name because of the numerous flower stalls that still operate here today.
The town mansions surrounding the square date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. For example, Edificio de Tejidos Abad is a beautiful three-story Art Nouveau building with rectangular white bay windows. In the morning, it’s nice to sit at a table in a cafe, and in the evening, go to one of the bars to drink beer with a delicious tapas snack.
Address: Plaza de las Flores, 30820 Alcantarilla, Murcia, Spain.
Museum of the Monastery of Santa Clara. | Photo: wikimedia. This ancient monastery is located right in the city center, on Gran Vía Alfonso X el Sabio, and it is still active. When visiting the museum, you will only be able to see a quarter of the entire monastery complex, but this is quite enough to understand how beautiful and interesting it is.
The monastery was built in 1300 on the site of the palace-fortress of the Almohad dynasty - the Muslim rulers of Murcia. This explains a large number of decorative architectural elements in the Arabic style, for example, horseshoe arches.
They are not only included in the design of the monastery, but are also displayed in the museum as exhibits. In addition, the exhibition features decorative elements skillfully made from wood and plaster.
Address: Museo de Santa Clara, Avenida Alfonso X el Sabio, 1, 30008 Murcia, Spain.
Museum fine arts. | Photo: wikimedia. This museum's attractive, bright galleries are dedicated to works by Spanish artists. Many of the works are little known, but in the Siglo de Oro gallery on the second floor there are two fine paintings by Murillo, “The Crucifixion” and “Ecce Homo,” as well as Ribera’s famous painting “Saint Jerome.” Seasonal exhibitions are regularly held on the third floor of the museum.
Address: Museo de Bellas Artes, Calle Obispo Frutos, 12, 30071 Murcia, Spain.
Plaza Cardenal Beluga. | Photo: santiago lopez-pastor / Flickr. The Plaza del Cardenal Belluga is where you can see some of Murcia's best monuments. From this square you can see the beautiful facade of the Cathedral, as well as the Murcia City Hall, a neoclassical building built in the mid-19th century.
In 1998, according to the design of Rafael Moneo, an extension was added to the town hall modern building, which contrasts markedly with the surrounding lush architecture. Here on the square is the Bishop's Palace, an 18th-century building in the Rococo style. It complements the Baroque extensions of the Cathedral.
Address: Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, 5-6, 30001 Murcia, Spain.
Archaeological Museum Murcia. | Photo: wikimedia. This museum is not visited by many tourists, but it will certainly interest those who are passionate about history. There are more than 2,000 archaeological sites throughout the Murcia region. In addition to the Roman and Moorish heritage, the museum exhibits the best exhibits of Iberian culture of the Bronze and Iron Ages.
From the drawings on the ceramics it is clear how much trade with the Phoenicians and Etruscans meant to the Iberians. In the museum you can see the amazing historical exhibit León de Coy - an almost abstract sculpture of a lion, found in a necropolis of the 4th century BC. e.
Address: Murcia Archaeological Museum, Av. Alfonso X el Sabio, 7, 30008 Murcia, Spain.
Bishop's Palace. | Photo: amaianos/Flickr. Palacio Episcopal next to the Cathedral is one of the most striking attractions in the center of Murcia. Here you can admire the magnificent facade of the palace, wander around the courtyard, and also consider the majestic main staircase. One of the doors leads to the Baroque chapel, where the mallow consecrated during the service is displayed around the clock.
Address: Palacio Episcopal, Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, 1, 30001 Murcia, Spain.
Last minute tours to Spain:
Monteagudo Castle. | Photo: wikimedia. On the territory of the north-eastern suburban area rises a rocky limestone hill 149 m high. On its slopes stands the ancient fortress Monteagudo Castle. The first thing that catches your eye is the huge statue of Christ on top of the castle. This is a replica of the original monument that has stood on the hill since 1926.
The replica was erected in the early 1950s after the original statue was destroyed during Civil War. The fortress, dating back 800 years, served as a strong defense and observation post for Moorish settlers for 250 years.
In addition, large reserves of water and grain were stored here to withstand long enemy sieges. After the defeat of the Moors, King Alfonso X of Castile began to use the castle as his residence in Murcia.
Address: Explanada del Castillo de Monteagudo, Calle Abderrahaman II, 30160 Monteagudo, Murcia, Spain.
Salcillo Museum. | Photo: wikimedia. Museo Salzillo is located in the baroque building of the Church of Jesus. It is dedicated to the work of a native of Murcia - the famous sculptor Francisco Salcillo (1707-1783). Particular attention is drawn to his sophisticated works - figures intended for religious processions and Christmas figurines.
Address: Museo Salzillo, Calle Dr. Jesús Quesada Sanz, 1, 30005 Murcia, Spain.
Floridablanca Garden. | Photo: wikimedia. Jardín Floridablanca is a small but very picturesque urban garden. Here you can see several luxurious banyan trees with long and thick aerial roots, as well as numerous cypresses, palms, violet trees and lush rose bushes. There are benches in the shade of trees where you can relax and admire the surrounding beauty.
Address: Jardín De Floridablanca, Calle Proclamación, 6, 30002 Murcia, Spain.
Museo de la Ciencia y del Agua is a city museum located on the river bank. It's a must-visit with children - they'll surely love the interactive exhibits where they can push buttons and turn knobs. The museum also has aquariums and a small planetarium.
Address: Museo de la Ciencia y el Agua, Plaza de la Ciencia, 1, 30002 Murcia, Spain.
Almudi Palace. | Photo: wikimedia. This magnificent building was once a grain warehouse that was destroyed during a severe thunderstorm. Work on its reconstruction was completed in 1629. El Palacio Almudí represents the rapid growth of the local economy of that era as a result of the development of the silk industry.
Before entering the building, three bas-reliefs catch your eye - a large coat of arms of the Habsburgs, framed by two coats of arms of the city of Murcia. Inside the palace you will see a beautiful Tuscan style hall with rows of columns supporting wide arches. This beautiful building is currently used to host seasonal art exhibitions.
Address: Almudí Palace, Calle Plano de San Francisco, 8, 30004 Murcia, Spain.
Murcia Zoo. | Photo: Mike Young/Flickr. Terra Natura Murcia is a zoo with several branches throughout Spain. He enjoys well-deserved fame for his humane approach to keeping animals in captivity. Here you will not see cramped pens or cages. Instead, zoo staff try to create conditions for animals that are close to their natural habitat.
For this purpose, about 500 trees and shrubs were planted throughout the territory. The zoo contains 300 animals of 50 species. Among them there are also representatives of endangered species, for example, the European lynx, brown bear, and Iberian wolf. Among the exotic inhabitants you will see hippos, lions, giraffes, white rhinoceroses, birds and reptiles of various species.
Address: Terra Natura Murcia, Calle Regidor Cayetano Gago, s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain.
Veronicas Market. Mercado de Verónicas is the central market of Murcia, located a few steps from the Almudi Palace. To enjoy the authentic taste of Spanish products, buy those labeled Denominación de Origen.
The Murcia countryside is home to paprika, a key ingredient in many Spanish dishes, and local cheese made from goat's milk. Many Spanish fruits and vegetables are also grown in the Murcia region, so you can be sure you're buying truly farm-fresh produce from one of the 116 market stalls.
Address: Mercado de Verónicas, Calle Plano de San Francisco, 10, 30004 Murcia, Spain.
Suburban park. | Photo: wikimedia. Residents of Murcia do not have to travel far to relax in nature and breathe fresh air. Just 6 km from the southern outskirts of the city there is a large natural Park– Carrascoy and El Valle Regional Park. After an easy climb in the foothills of the ridge, you will reach the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fuensanta, one of the main religious attractions of Murcia.
The temple is easily recognizable by its whitewashed baroque towers. Behind the temple there are amazing mountain landscapes. The park's paths, framed by thickets of wild herbs - thyme and rosemary, pass through forest thickets of Aleppo pines and kermes oaks.
Address: Centro de Visitantes El Valle, Ctra El Valle, 61, 30120 Murcia, Spain.
Resort areas of Costa Cálida and Costa Blanca. | Photo: RachelH_ / Flickr. The Mediterranean Sea is just 50 km from Murcia, so you can get from the city to the beach within an hour. If you head straight east you will find yourself in a quiet beach area on the southern Costa Blanca. The coastal resort of Torre de la Horadada has two sandy beach, marked with the Blue Flag for high water quality.
Beach bars are visible everywhere - they look especially tempting when the sea air has worked up an appetite. For lovers active rest You will like the Mar Menor lagoon separated from the sea. It is considered one of the largest centers aquatic species sports In addition, the Las Charcas area in the northern zone of the lagoon is famous for its healing mud.
Address: Costa Calida, Murcia, Spain.
Your little neighbor. And in vain, because in Murcia, at every step you can see what travelers value so much - history and beauty.
Murcia is a land of orchards where lemons are especially popular: they are used everywhere, even in cakes made from lemon leaves. And Murcia itself is somewhat similar to lemon candy - sometimes it seems sweet and pleasant to the taste, sometimes it burns your mouth with acid. This is the history of the city itself - a change of sweet and sour, ups and downs.
- The region of Murcia is called the “garden of Europe” – most of fruits and vegetables , such as citrus fruits, cherries, almonds, quinces and much more, are brought to the northern countries from here.
- “The hot frying pan of Spain” Murcia is called not because there are 330 sunny days a year or that it was here that the temperature maximum of Spain was recorded, but because the city is sandwiched among mountain peaks, which interferes with air circulation.
- The Segura River, unfortunately, is considered one of the most polluted in Europe.
City `s history
Archaeological excavations on site modern city Murcia show that life existed here back in the Neolithic era. This land on the banks of the Segura River was then captured by the Romans. But real story The city begins during the Caliphate, in 825, when it was officially founded by the Emir of Cordoba, Abd ar-Rahman II.
Most historians translate the name “Murcia” as “Country of Myrtles” or “Country of Mulberries” (Latin: Murtae). The second version is that it is simply a village belonging to Murtius (Murtius is a common Roman name). Over time, the Latin pronunciation gave way to Arabic, and this is how Murcia turned out.
The Arabs laid out the city around the Segura River and provided it with a good irrigation system. In the 12th century, according to an Arab geographer, it was “a densely populated and well-fortified city.” The city was advanced in terms of technology: ceramics, silkworm and paper production flourished here, almost the first in Europe.
For several centuries, Murcia was a bone of contention between Muslims and Christians, until in 1304 it finally became part of the Castilian crown. The 18th century saw the peak of Murcia's economic prosperity thanks to silk production, but in the 19th century the city suffered a series of tragedies - plunder by Napoleon's troops, terrible earthquakes, floods, plague and cholera. But at the same time, the city was enriched with many artistic attractions.
Attractions
Every Saturday, the municipality of Murcia organizes a free tour of the sights of the Old Town. Registration for it is required, collection is in one of the buildings on Cardinal Beluga Square.
All tourist routes in Murcia begin with a visit to the Cathedral, which attracts not only for its antiquity - the main building was completed in 1394-1465, but also because it is an example of centuries-old eclecticism. For example, construction began in the Italian Gothic style, and the bell tower in the Renaissance style, then the project passed into the hands of masters working in the Baroque style, then Rococo and later Neoclassicism. The main façade of the cathedral, completed in the 18th century, is one of the masterpieces of the Spanish Baroque.
The height of the cathedral reaches 93 meters, there are 25 bells on the bell tower, there are Observation deck, which offers a beautiful view of the city. The cathedral is located on Cardinal Beluga Square, where, in addition to it, there are several other objects of tourist interest - the Bishop's Palace (XVIII century) and an architectural novelty, which, as usual, caused controversy at the beginning of its existence - an extension to the city hall, completed in 1998 according to the project architect Rafael Moneo.
Shopping and entertainment
Almost all the streets of the old city are of artistic interest. The main ones are Plateria and Traperia. The traperia leads from the cathedral to the former market square, on which there is another striking representative of the city’s architectural heritage and one of the most beautiful buildings in Murcia - the Casino, built in the 19th century.
Interestingly, the name of Plateria Street comes from the word plata, meaning silver, and this is where jewelry shops and workshops were located in the past. And Traperia is, essentially, Rag Street. And today this area remains a center for shopping - tourism, weddings, jewelry.
In 1862, Queen Isabel II visited the city to open the new Theater of the Infants. Today it is the Teatro Romea, named after the famous local actor Julián Romea. The theater is famous not only for its magnificent building, but also for its beautiful interior, and most importantly, for its magical acoustics, which turns every performance into a masterpiece.
Back in the 13th century, Alfonso X founded the Universitas Studiorum Murciana in the city. In its place, in the mid-19th century, the Free University opened its doors, which in turn became the basis of the University of Murcia, which opened in 1915, the third oldest in the country. The university has an Aquarium filled with the most interesting inhabitants of the seas and oceans from all over the world.
