2025 Huerta de Murcia Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in January)

Mediterranean Coast Tour of Spain ~ Murcia (Region) The area where Caravaca is located has been inhabited by Argaric, Iberian, and Roman cultures, but the origin of its urban structure must be traced back to its Moorish past. After the Reconquista, these territories were successively governed by the Knights Templar and the Order of Santiago. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Caravaca experienced its golden age, becoming the political center of a vast territory. As a result, the town boasts a significant number of monumental buildings, reflecting its historical importance. One of the main features is the castle that stands above the layout of Caravaca. It originated from the Muslims and was expanded in the 15th century under the patronage of the Knights Templar, later belonging to the Order of Santiago. Its 14 sturdy towers were built to protect the Santísima Vera Cruz shrine constructed at its center in the 17th century. The façade, built a century later, is in Baroque style. The site is a historical-artistic monument, housing a museum of religious art and history. Caravaca is home to one of the most significant examples of Renaissance religious architecture in Murcia. It is the Salvador Church, which has been declared a historical-artistic monument. The cultural tour ends at the Soledad Church, now an archaeological museum; the Carmelite Monastery founded by Saint John of the Cross; and the Purísima Concepción, built in the 16th century on the site of the old Cofradía Hospitalaria de San Juan de Letrán Church. Its origins are Renaissance, with beautiful Mudejar coffered ceilings and Baroque altarpieces inside. Caravaca de la Cruz is also the fifth city where the Catholic Holy Year (Jubilee Year) can be celebrated, alongside Santiago de Compostela, Santo Toribio de Liébana, Rome, and Jerusalem. In this regard, the town celebrates the Holy Year every seven years, allowing people to achieve the Jubilee, plenary, solemn, and universal indulgence. The next Holy Year is in 2024.

#europetrip Murcia, a city nestled in the southeastern region of Spain, often remains under the radar for most tourists. However, this charming destination offers a rich blend of history, culture, and gastronomy that is worth exploring. The city itself is a beautiful mix of old-world charm and modern flair, offering visitors a unique experience. The heart of Murcia is the Cathedral of Santa María, a magnificent structure with intricate Baroque and Gothic architecture. Standing in the bustling Plaza Cardenal Belluga, it's easy to admire its towering facade and the ornate interior. Just a short walk from here is Plaza de las Flores, a lively square known for its vibrant cafes, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the world go by. One of the highlights of Murcia is its rich gastronomic tradition. The city is known for its tapas and distinctive regional dishes such as zarangollo (a delicious mix of scrambled eggs, zucchini, and onion) and caldero (a flavorful fish stew). For those who love fresh produce, the Murcia markets, particularly the Mercado de Verónicas, offer a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and cured meats. The region's agricultural legacy is evident in its thriving orchards, producing everything from citrus fruits to vegetables. For a taste of nature, head to Sierra Espuña, a stunning natural park located just outside the city. Hiking and outdoor activities here are a great way to escape the city’s hustle and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape. In contrast to its historical sites, Murcia also boasts a contemporary flair, particularly in its museums. The Museo Salzillo is dedicated to the works of Francisco Salzillo, the famous sculptor from Murcia, while the Museo de Bellas Artes showcases an impressive collection of Spanish art. Despite being less known compared to cities like Madrid or Barcelona, Murcia holds a special place in the hearts of those who visit. With its warm climate, welcoming locals, and rich cultural heritage, it's a destination that promises a memorable experience. Whether you’re strolling through its historic streets, indulging in its culinary delights, or enjoying its natural beauty, Murcia offers something for every traveler.

It was a weekend getaway to Murcia, Spain. We started our day at the stunning Plaza Cardenal Belluga, where the Catedral de Murcia stands majestically. The mix of baroque, gothic, and renaissance styles makes it an architectural masterpiece. We wandered around the square, soaking in the lively atmosphere and admiring the intricate details of the cathedral facade 😍 📍Plaza Cardenal Belluga, 30001 Murcia, Spain 💰 €5 for cathedral and tower access We also visited the Museo Salzillo, dedicated to Francisco Salzillo, one of Spain's most renowned Baroque sculptors. We were captivated by the intricately crafted wooden sculptures depicting religious scenes. It’s a small museum, but it offers a deep insight into Murcia’s artistic heritage 😍😍😍 📍Plaza de San Agustín, 3, 30005 Murcia, Spain 💰€3 In the evening, we took a leisurely walk along the Paseo del Malecón, a historic promenade that stretches alongside the Segura River. The views were lovely, especially during sunset. It was a relaxing way to end our first day in Murcia, enjoying the greenery and the calm river breeze 🌅 📍Paseo del Malecón, 30009 Murcia, Spain For dinner, we dined at El Pasaje de Zabalburu, known for its delicious tapas and vibrant atmosphere. I would recommend trying the Pulpo a la Murciana (Murcian-style octopus) and the Matrimonio(anchovies and boquerones). The prices were reasonable, and the food was fresh and flavorful. 📍Plaza San Juan, 1, 30003 Murcia, Spain 💰 €20-€30 per person We began our second day with a visit to Jardín de Floridablanca, the oldest public garden in Spain. We loved strolling through the beautiful pathways, surrounded by lush greenery and unique sculptures. The garden offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. 📍Calle Proclamación, 6, 30002 Murcia, Spain Next, we headed to Mercado de Verónicas, the local market, where we immersed ourselves in Murcia’s culinary delights. We explored the colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, seafood, and regional specialties. I would recommend grabbing some Pastel de Carne (Murcian meat pie) and freshly squeezed orange 🍊 juice from one of the vendors delicious and affordable! 📍Calle Verónicas, 1, 30004 Murcia, Spain 💰 €5-€10 for snacks We visited the Museo de la Ciudad to learn more about Murcia’s history and culture. It was fascinating to explore the exhibits, from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum provides a great overview of the city’s development and traditions. 📍Plaza Agustinas, 7, 30005 Murcia, Spain 💰 Free As the day wound down, we made our way to Plaza de las Flores, a lively square filled with flower stalls and cafes. We grabbed a seat at one of the outdoor terraces and enjoyed a drink while people-watching. I would recommend trying a Vermut Murciano a local specialty. 📍Plaza de las Flores, 30004 Murcia, Spain #weekendgetaways #Vacation #trip

Cathedral of Murcia Palacio Episcopal, Pl. del Cardenal Belluga, s/n, 30001 Murcia Surrounded by shields and doves, Arenal Street leads us to Plaza de Belluga, where the most famous monument is located: the Cathedral of Saint Mary, also known as the Cathedral of Murcia, which is the main temple and headquarters of the Diocese of Cartagena. Bishop Pedro de Sanahuja laid the first stone in 1388; at that time, no one imagined that the project would be completed four centuries later, a lengthy period that has proven the diversity of architectural styles. The temple houses 23 chapels of varying styles, from the Chapel of the Marquis of Vélez (with its splendid Gothic tracery, 1507) to one of the earliest works of the Spanish Renaissance, the Chapel of Junterones (1525); the Sacristy, inspired by Brunelleschi's Sacristy of San Lorenzo, belongs to this era. The altarpiece of the Chapel of El Socorro, the 15th-century choir stalls, and the statue of Saint Jerome carved by Salzillo are other unavoidable references. Inside the cathedral, there is a funerary urn containing the heart and entrails of the wise King Alfonso X. The arrival of this tower marked the Renaissance in Murcia. The first structure was built on top of another more austere tower, replacing the minaret of the mosque, constructed by the Florentine brothers between 1521 and 1525, adorned with Ionic capitals, gables, and niches, completed in 1645, yet it still took another 120 years to finish the third structure, the lantern on the octagonal dome, 92 meters high. However, the most beautiful and precious jewel of the entire complex is the imafronte (1736/1754), a beautiful stone altarpiece designed by the sculptor and architect Jaime Bort. Murcian builders, painters, gilders, sculptors, and assemblers of the Golden Age collaborated on a project listed as an international Baroque masterpiece. As required, the imafronte faces west, in front of the Episcopal Palace. Murcia·Huerta de Murcia