Add plans to your travel guide Murcia
Click on "add plan" to expand your leisure options in your travel guide.
Tourist guide: what to do and see in Murcia
Europe's Market Garden with 300 Days of Sun
La Vega del Segura is home to the sunny city of Murcia at only 40 kilometres from the Mediterranean Sea. With a lot of university life, the surrounding areas mix barren and dry landscapes with sea views and forests of Aleppo pine trees. If you look over the tree tops, you might see one of the birds of prey, such as an eagle, falcon, or eagle owl taking to the sky, and you'll be able to do this wearing short sleeves as there is an average temperature of 18 degrees throughout most of the year. The winters are mild and the summers are hot. In fact, anytime of the year is good for going to visit Murcia, but the Easter week, the parties during spring, or Murcia's fair in September will allow you to see the best of the city. Take advantage of eating well, as the best produce from Murcia's market gardens is guaranteed.
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
La Manga and Mar Menor
A summer destination par excellence, La Manga offers some very interesting and alternative natural plans. Find out more!
Did someone mention beaches?
The coastal edge which forms La Manga del Mar Menor is one of the main attractions in the community of Murcia. During the 20th century, the area underwent urban development on a large scale, and many kilometres of residential areas and hotel complexes around the beaches turned it into one of the preferred summer destinations for tourists from all parts of the country. But besides this phenomenon, Murcia's incredible beaches are what make it a real paradise, and it's not only sea and sand that you're going to find. The nature reserve called El Parque Natural de las Salinas and the sandy area named the Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar show all the possible landscapes and ecosystems in the region, which makes it an essential place for nature lovers. We also recommend you to visit this place during the spring, as the flora and fauna are at their peak, and we should also mention that it is less crowded during this season.
Cartagena Theatre
A highly recommended short trip to the neighbouring city of Cartagena. Its ancient theatre is amazing.
Second on the list.
The neighbouring city of Cartagena is the second most important in the region after Murcia, and if you have some time, it is also worth a visit. The Roman theatre justifies the excursion and if you don't have much time on your visit, we recommend that you don't miss this place. This theatre was built between 5 and I BC, but the most curious aspect of this place is that it was buried for over 2000 years without nobody knowing. It was accidentally discovered in 1998 during the construction of a building that had nothing to do with it. The archaeological restoration work it had to undergo took quite a few years but despite that, this huge construction with a capacity for more than 6000 people remained practically intact, and its conservation status competed with the Roman Theatre of Mérida. In fact, it has become one of the main sights to see in the city.
The Path of 10,000 steps
With this idea, the Murcian, in addition to taking care of his health, will enjoy his city, long live the 10,000 steps!
Interesting initiatives.
The Path of 10,000 steps is an initiative of the Murcia City Council that combines the idea of getting to know the city itself and its surroundings with sports and health. It is a journey designed to be done on foot that mixes urban areas with green and natural areas. Its name is due to the approximate number of steps in which the route can be taken and which coincides with the number of steps that is recommended to be taken daily to enjoy good health. The itinerary begins at the Glorieta de España and runs through the main areas of the city such as the Old Bridge, Floridablanca, Trapería street, the Malecón passage and Plano de San Francisco, ending at the starting point. Along this ring you will surround the main monuments of the city, in fact, it is common to take advantage of this route to make tourist stops such as the Salzillo Museum, the cathedral or even to eat in the Santo Domingo area.
The Remains of the Medieval Wall
Do you want to see original remains of the wall and have lunch while you're there? The aptly named restaurant La Muralla (The Wall) awaits you.
Remains of another era.
The Santa Eulalia wall represents the remains of the medieval city that used to be Murcia. Although these are the most popular remains, you can find more of these medieval remains throughout the city, and although they are less famous, they do have a peculiar charm. In first place, next to the well known market of Mercado de las Verónicas, you'll find a large part of this wall that ends in two towers, and one of them is part of the church of Verónicas. These remains show how the medieval city used to defend itself using this wall as a boundary against the neighbouring attacks and invasions. The other secret spot in the city is found in none other than a restaurant, which is aptly named La Muralla (The Wall), and is located on a street called Cánovas del Castillo. And yes, you can see an original piece of the wall inside this establishment.
The Moneo Building
Leaving the controversy aside, it's a must to discover this building and its history in this city. Don't miss it.
Central, bright and modern.
Did you know that there is a building designed by Rafael Moneo in the city centre? It's located in the heart of Murcia, on the square named Cardenal Belluga, and although it's one of the most controversial buildings in the whole region, it keeps an interesting story of itself. This building is an extension of the council and it's located opposite the cathedral. Far from trying to compete with this design, and showing great respect towards the religious building, the architect came up with a construction to promote this symbol of the city. This is why the cathedral's facade is projected onto the enormous window of the Moneo building, so that it can be seen from all possible points and angles from the square. You must approach the building to see the plays of light projected on its original facade, but despite this, there is still controversy among the capital's residents.
Puente de los Peligros
If you like popular culture, you'll love the history behind this bridge. Listen to this!
The city's old bridge.
The Puente de los Peligros (Bridge of the Hazards) is also known as Puente Viejo (Old Bridge), and has been here in this place since the 18th century, joining the two banks of the Segura River. At one end of the bridge, you'll find one of the city's most famous virgins called Our Lady of the Hazards. This virgin has one of the most important stories in popular eccentricities. Throughout the city's history, the residents didn't have much else to be so afraid of other than the floods caused by the river rising, and such rising gave way to all kinds of traditions and rituals around this area to stop the river. For example, when the river rose, it was common to throw the virgen's crown into the river, as it was believed that the water level would drop this way. Another one of the most common spiritual practices was to tell the river off from the fifth floor of the cathedral.
The Floridablanca Garden
Central and charming describes this public park, which majestically reigns in the district of El Carmen.
The essence of El Carmen.
Did you know that Floridablanca Garden was the first public garden in the whole of Spain? It's located in the heart of a district called El Carmen which is one of the most charming districts in the city centre, and its history is linked to José Moñino Redondo who was one of Murcia's most influential people. As an economist and a lawyer, he carried out different political positions for Charles III during his reign, and it was Redondo who turned this park into a reality. This garden started as a very busy boulevard as the residents of the area came here on certain days to where the market of the area was established, and where the Murcians used to buy and trade products that arrived and departed through this Mediterranean gateway. During the 18th century, it was reconverted into the garden that we know nowadays, and it's currently one of the city's largest green areas.
The Malecón Gardens
Murcia owes the Segura River many things, and nothing would be the same without it; not geographically, nor economically. Thanks Segura!
The Segura was to blame!
The Segura River was what caused the city of Murcia to originate in the geographic location which it occupies, and this river was responsible for the city's luck during many centuries, since it supplied the city and it was its source of energy. In this way, the city of Murcia was found in a strategic place that used to lead into the Mediterranean but protected itself from possible invasions, and it was also a key place in the area for trading. Fortunately, the city has taken responsibility of looking after the Segura's entire riverbank which is now home to a few parks, which make this place a pleasant walk, and a nice way to discover this part of the city. The most important of these is the Malecón Gardens or botanical gardens. This green area was built during the 19th century and it hasn't only been somewhere just to walk round since then, as it proudly exhibits the flora and fauna of the region, and from different parts of the world.
The Mine of La Unión
If the Cartagena mountain range has something to boast about, it's this mine which makes a very interesting visit!
Providing colour to the mountain range.
In the neighbouring region of La Unión, in the middle of the Cartagena mountain range, they have managed to recuperate and open this mine to the public known as the Mina de Agrupa Vicenta. These mines were one of the economic areas in the region of Murcia during the 19th century, as they invigorated the whole area's industrial activity. In fact, there was even a population that used to migrate to the surrounding areas, so that they could find work. The enormous installations are located at a depth of more that 80 metres, and they house different rooms or caves that are maintained in perfect condition. You can even visit the natural lake that used to supply the mine and originated from these natural caves. What is known as the mining train, which supports this trip, shows the whole tour round these mines and finishes in the middle of the mountains. The fact is that all surrounding areas around here are also worth visiting. In the middle of the Murcian mountains, you can see a large part of the region's territory in its roughest and wildest state.
La Fortaleza del Sol
A medieval castle built with yellow and reddish stones that also offers the nicest sunsets in the city.
Castles in the sky.
Lorca Castle, which is known as Fortaleza del Sol (Fortress of the Sun) is one of the largest castles in the whole of Spain, but its importance doesn't lie in its size. This enormous mass of yellow and reddish stone played an extremely important role in the wars between Christians and Muslims. It was built during the Middle Ages between the 9th and 15th centuries and continuously changed hands from one side to another. During the Muslim period, its wall known as the Muro del Espaldón was divided into two and served as a place of refuge for the Muslims during Christian attempts of invasion. When the Christians conquered this castle around the 13th century, it played a very important and key defensive point for the reconquest led by James I of Aragon who managed to take the city of Murcia. This castle tells one the most important episodes of the Murcian community, and if that wasn't enough, it also offers one of the nicest sunsets in the region.
The Caja Murcia Foundation
Thanks to this foundation, Murcia's cultural calendar is totally worthwhile. Take a look and you'll see why!
One hundred per cent cultural.
The foundation has various centres scattered around the capital, and the rest of the region of Murcia. Its objective is to give coverage and space to the different cultural initiatives and concerns that concern this region and other areas. We'll essentially focus on two centres: the first one is called Las Claras at number 1 of a street named Santa Clara. We recommend you to take a look at their activity calendar as they always have exhibitions and interesting cultural activities related to the region. On the other hand, the Espacio Xtra Caja Murcia is located in the university campus and covers more innovative kinds of projects that are just as interesting. This has become one of the city's most forward-looking cultural centres and its multidisciplinary character makes space for all kinds of trends. We advise you to check their programme, and here you have the website address of the foundation's blog: www.blogfundacioncajamurcia.es
Aquatic Murcia
Would you like to swim with a sea lion? Terra Marina offers you this and much more!
Soaked in entertainment.
There are two really interesting centres in the city which are focused on the marine environment. On the one hand, you have the Parque Acuático Terra Natura which is of a more fun and infantile nature. This is an ideal place for children's entertainment which, in addition to its enjoyable installations, offers interesting experiences such as the possibility of taking a dip in the water with a specimen of sea lion, as well as different natural lessons in situ. A more serious kind of option for discovering the local marine environment and that of other parts of the world can be found at the aquarium in the University of Murcia. Although its installations aren't very big, the aquariums are complete recreations with the flora and fauna of different places where you can see examples of black tip reef and oceanic whitetip sharks, as well as moray eels and sea horses. Besides this, the explanations of the exhibition itself are highly recommended and educational.
The City's Underground Venues
Variety for all tastes! The least traditional and most avant-garde cultural options are covered thanks to venues like these.
There's a place for everyone.
As you will have noticed, the city enjoys a rich and complete cultural life, being a key place for all shows that tour on a national and international level. Despite many of these shows making stops at large enclosures such as the Auditorio y Centro de Congresos Víctor Villegas and similar venues, there's a whole circuit of concerts, as well as series of music, dancing, and other arts scattered around the rest of the city. In this sense, we introduce you to two venues which are both institutions with regard to shows and live music. One is called Plan B and the other is known as Stereo (the latter was opened more recently and it originated from its predecessor in Alicante). All kinds of interesting and very important, yet not so high-profile performances have visited these stages, and both of them are located in the heart of the city, which is why they make a great option for discovering the other Murcia.
Auditorio y Centro de Congresos Víctor Villegas
The region of Murcia is concerned about culture and this is evident by this auditorium which pays tribute to Victor Villegas.
A tight cultural schedule.
The city of Murcia has been concerned for years about having a rich and diverse cultural agenda, and it has managed to do just that. The most important cultural events with regard to theatre, dancing, music, and other arts usually take place in this city, and not just on a national level. Since this auditorium opened in 1995 which pays tribute to Víctor Villegas, the city's cultural life hasn't stopped growing; so much so that a simple renovation wasn't suffice during 2002, as it had to be supported with some new installations to complement the complex. Due to its new staging, the main shows in the region come to perform here, in which symphonic music and chamber music stand out, although the incidental music and dance programme also gains importance. If you're planning on going to an event in the city, take a look at the events programme for this place.
Parque Regional El Valle y Carrascoy
Those who are passionate about flora and fauna are in luck, as they'll be delighted by this kind of geographical feature!
The wild side of Murcia.
As if it were trying to separate the water from the Segura River's banks and the water from the shore of Mar Menor, this type of geographical feature in the form of mountains appears as one of Murcia's wildest places. This area occupies more than 16,000 hectares and it's home to the most diverse flora and fauna in the region. For nature and animal lovers, it's worth mentioning that this is a privileged place for bird-watching where a large number of the most characteristic species of the peninsula can be found here. For example, you can see examples of the peregrine falcon, the common buzzard, and at night you may be able to spot some eagle owls, but the most outstanding of all is the fact that this is the usual habitat of the royal eagle. As you can expect to spot a variety of birds in this regional park, it's also home to numerous reptiles such as lizards, oscillated lizards, and Iberian snakes. By the way, the European wild cat also lives here on this land. As you can see, this natural place is rich and unique, which is essential if you want to discover the wildest natural medium in the region.
Festival SOS
Any follower of artistic festivals has this Murcian festival marked in their agenda... It's massive and important!
For festival-goers in May.
This art festival in Murcia was organised for the first time in 2008, and takes advantage of the installations at an enclosure called La Fica, next to the centre named Auditorio y Centro de Congresos Víctor Villegas. Its initial idea was to organise a festival that was to be essentially based on music, but it was also to include the rest of artistic disciplines, and they have been highly successful in doing so. Since then, the festival has been getting bigger and now it's not only one of the names on the Spanish festival circuit, it's part of the European dates too, where national and international stars usually come to perform. Although their success has also meant that the festival has stopped being held in the pastoral castle, which was the venue for the first editions, it still keeps being one of the city's attractions that is held annually during the first week of May, and it's the perfect excuse to discover the region of Murcia.
Flying Over the Murcian Skies
Discover Murcia from up in the air, while you learn basic flight control and experience some pure adrenalin!
Thrill seekers in action.
We propose a different and exciting activity for you which is restricted to thrill-seekers only. Murcia's climatology and orography has made one of the nicest and most impressive ways to discover the region from up in the sky, and this is the reason behind the company called Saflyx. This company has dedicated years to organising flights in different kinds of light aeroplanes, and they are experts with regard to the skies above Murcia. Within their different flight modes, you'll be able to take basic flight lessons on the one hand, and to see and discover a large part of the region from the air, on the other hand, which turns into a memorable and impressive experience in contact with nature. This company naturally offer specialised flight courses and their methods guarantee their clients' safety and enjoyment. If you'd like to find out more, you can check their website and ask for more information: www.saflyx.es/. This is certainly a different and unique way to discover the area.
Plaza de Santa Domingo and the Market
Get the camera ready! The 25-metre tall rubber plant that was planted here many years ago will attract your attention.
A meeting of streets.
This historic square is the place where the city's main streets join. The streets named Trapería, Merced, and Santa Clara; the avenue called Alfonso X el Sabio, and the arch known as Arco de Santo Domingo all meet up in this place. Watching time go by, you'll find the famous rubber plant that was planted here in 1893, which measures no less than 25 metres tall, but this square isn't only famous for this. Since the 13th century (and possibly before, although there is no documented evidence), this was where the city's market was established every Thursday, and where they used to trade food products that this market supplied Murcia. What's more, this place had the monopoly of supplying salt to the region and its surrounding areas, which was granted by Queen Isabella I of Castile. Due to this, people from everywhere in the east used to come here each week in search of this ingredient. On a more festive note, this was the area where they used to hold the bullfighting before there was a bullring.
Nights Out in Murcia
From Las Tascas to Centrofarma. From here to Mariano Rojas to then go back to the starting point… You now have a night trail!
Things to do at night.
The city of Murcia offers different options regarding its nightlife. It's a tradition to start the night in the area of Las Tascas, next to the University of Merced where these central streets are filled with people every night from Thursday to Sunday. A university and cheerful atmosphere dominates this place which is perfect for mixing tapas, small draught beer, or even the first stronger drinks of the night. People usually head to the area of Centrofama from here, which offers a more select and refined atmosphere, or to the Pérez Casa area where there are numerous pubs and establishments for all kinds of people. For the 'night owls', the area of Mariano Rojas is the best destination, as this district is characterised for being the place to start and end the night for many people. It's a quiet meeting place which is empty at the start of the night, and then it fills up again with people during the early hours of the morning, as you'll find the establishments and afterhours here that stay open longer than the others.
The Wine Route
The Murcian wine tradition is as ancient as it is important, so you must not miss this wine route.
Long live Monastrell!
The region of Murcia has a large and ancient tradition of viniculture. In fact, a kind of native grape is cultivated in this area known as Monastrell which is considered as one of the best in the world by the main wine experts. There are three certificates of origin: Bullas, Jumilla and Yecla, and more than 47,000 hectares of land is joined between the three of them, making one of the area's main sources of income. The purpose of this so-called 'wine route' is to comprehensively show all aspects of this certificate of origin from vineyards to wine cellars, and from the surrounding villages which move the cultivation towards the gastronomy surrounding this wine. The visit naturally ends with a wine taste of their main products among which their sweet wines stand out, besides their vintage and reserves.
The modernity of shopping centers, for large and small
Accessible and modern, they are specially designed with the little ones in the house in mind. Guaranteed fun for the whole family.
Leisure for all ages.
Of course, Murcia also has several shopping centers, modern and current. We present two that cross the border of the usual shopping center. First of all, Thader is located on Avenida Juan de Borbón, a few meters from the central Plaza Circular. It is a modern and unique building focused on the enjoyment of the little ones that, in addition to having a playground, all its decoration is based on fountains, attractions and other similar motifs, creating a fun and pleasant space. The other shopping center is called Zig Zag on the same avenue of Juan Carlos I and also focused on the little ones. In fact, this space is more focused on leisure than shopping. All this commercial area of the city is located between its financial part and its historical core, and both places can be reached both by car and on foot from anywhere in the city.
La Noria Shopping Centre
This isn't any kind of shopping centre: its recreation of a coastal village will make your shopping much more enjoyable.
Delightfully different.
La Noria Shopping Centre isn't a typical shopping centre. It isn't located in the city of Murcia, so you have to go to a village called La Ñora to the west of the capital which is only six kilometres away (this region and its surroundings are well worth a visit). La Ñora is very near the town of Los Jerónimos which is a very popular area and highly recommended. The charm of this shopping centre lies in the way that it's made to look like a small Mediterranean coastal village, that is to say that the shops are framed by streets that recreate their neighbourhoods, parks, avenues, and bus stops. Life and leisure are defined here in a different place with a lot of charm, making this centre a different way to do your shopping.
The Murcia Arts and Crafts Centre
Clay, wood, wicker… Murcians understand craftwork: go round this centre and you'll notice why.
Authentic Murcian tradition.
The region of Murcia has a great tradition when it comes to handmade objects, and the work and treatment using clay, wicker, and wood etc. has a long history here on this land. The works using pottery and the traditional figures for nativity scenes are what stand out here. This tradition goes back to the 17th century, and although it's more popular to acquire them in the Alfonso X the Wise Christmas Market which is organised between December and February, you can also find these kinds of works during the rest of the year. As a counterpoint, working with esparto grass is also typical in the region from which curious figures and household utensils are made out of, and that you can find in the art and craft centre called the Centro de Artesanía de Murcia at number 8 on a street named Francisco Rabal. As a souvenir, you can pick up a piece of the city's history in this centre.
Murcian Craftwork
Are you looking for something nice and typical? Take a walk round the craft shops and you'll find what you're looking for!
Unique pieces.
As you'll have been able to see already, Murcian culture and folklore is the emergence of many cultures rolled into one. This heterogeneity is based on the fact of being the destination for traders coming from all other Mediterranean shores, and for being governed by different religions, according to the periods which are inherent in their art. For example, their embroidery is something typical and this tradition and elaboration dates back to the 16th century. With gold and silver thread, simple floral motifs were represented, to complex religious or profane scenes. There is also a variety of formats such as blankets, rugs, garments, or flags made out of silk or wool... If you're thinking of taking back something which is typical from the area, we suggest that you to take a look at these kinds of crafts in the small shops hidden on the streets named Trapería, Platería, or around this area, as there are still many craftspeople who sell unique pieces in the city.
The Nueva Condomina Shopping Centre
This shopping centre fulfils any city's expectations nowadays for leisure, shopping, and restoration.
New and modern.
If you're looking for a shopping centre in the area of Nueva Condomina, you'll find the Nueva Condomina centre next to the football stadium of the Murcian capital football team. The Nueva Condomina is the latest and most modern shopping centre in the region. This area is where the city is spreading out towards, and it covers all the residents' leisure needs from shops and cinemas, to all kinds of eating establishments and large green areas for children and adults to relax and walk round. Inside the centre, more than 200 shops open their doors to the main brands of fashion, accessories, and leisure goods. Now, you should know that it's closed on Sundays, and it's useful to know that the centre gets busier when there's a large sporting event held in the stadium, especially with regard to the traffic in the area.
The street named Gran Vía
You'll find alternatives to traditional shopping here. If you're looking for shopping galore - this is your street!
This street is as long as it is important.
The Murcian Gran Vía appears between Plaza Circular and Plaza Juan XXIII, and this large avenue is one of the epicentres of the city's commercial activity. Although it's true that Platería and Trapería are the streets which focus on more local and traditional shopping, the Gran Vía is a shopping area which is for more standard and comprehensive shopping where you'll find your usual brands regarding fashion. In fact, this avenue even includes a shopping centre. Besides this, one of Murcia's advantages being a small city is that you can easily walk from place to place, so the surrounding streets have become part of this shopping area and have started what is now known as Murcia's golden mile. This modern area naturally offers a good handful of places to stop in for lunch or a snack, and to relax during a day of shopping.
The Street named Platería
You have just arrived at Murcia's mile of craftworks where traditional and local trading set the trends.
The usual trading.
The central streets of Platería and Trapería cross and form an angle in the city, which marks out the area of one of Murcia's most important commercial areas. At barely a few metres from the theatre called Teatro Romea, a street called Trapería begins, as well as a mile of Murcian craftwork. But this isn't new, as these two streets have a commercial tradition that goes back to none other than the Middle Ages. During that period, the local craftspeople (metalsmiths, potters, painters, and sculptors etc.) used to show and sell their works in this district and this tradition evolved and has become one of the most interesting areas of shops nowadays. As these streets particularly accommodate small businesses, you can find souvenir shops and typical mementos from the area, to clothes shops and boutiques by local designers. This is one of the most recommended districts to explore for a day of shopping.
The Vistabella Market
Should your walk lead you to this fully-fledged market, you'll find a variety of quality goods.
Trading since '85.
By the banks of the Segura River next to an industrial estate named La Paz and another district called La Fama, this suburb called Vistabella emerged during the 1950s. The history of this suburb has to do with the civil war and it was occupied by the military and their families who fought in the war. However, this suburb began to grow, and now it has turned into a curious centre that seems very like a city within the city where you'll find a market called Mercado de Vistabella. This market was established in 1985 and it has been providing half the city of Murcia since then. You can find all kinds of typical products from the region here from Murcia's market garden produce, to craftwork from the area, and it's the perfect place to find a different and purely native souvenir from the area. We recommend you to come walking to the market, as this way you'll cross the Calatrava bridges.
The Murcia Antiques Market
At this Sunday spot, you'll find all the old things that ever were or ever will be. Here, you'll walk among relics with history.
Antiques on Sundays.
If you're fond of antiques, there's a place in Murcia for you. This is the city's antiques market which is mounted and dismounted every Sunday morning at the back of the museum called Museo Salzillo. As if it wanted to be a continuation of the legacy that the Murcian artist left to the city, this open-air market hides an endless number of all kinds of objects from old period crockery, to watches, coins, stamps and old things of any style or period. All these with a personal history behind them that you must discover. From 9am to midday every Sunday, you'll have time to visit this market. By the way, it's also common for private sellers to be around this street market, offering music collections, jukeboxes, and music devices, as well as other types of objects which, although they're not antiques, they are curious objects from other times.
The Alfonso X the Wise Christmas Market
Its exclusive Christmas period doesn't make it any less important. If it coincides with your plans, check it out for yourself.
Merry Christmas!
Although this is a seasonal market, its tradition, importance, and beauty inevitably gave it a name. Every year from 10th December to 5th January, this popular Christmas market is organised throughout the whole street of Alfonso X el Sabio. Works by the most reputable nativity scene makers from the region and other parts of the peninsula are exhibited in this market where craftspeople of ceramics, precious metals, wood, and other disciplines come here to show their works. Besides this, every year the market officiates a tree measuring five metres which is made from some remarkable glass tulips by the brothers Pedro and Miguel Inglés. By the way, did you know that Murcia is twinned with the Polish city of Lodz? Well, you're about to discover this, as a stall is set up every year in this market to celebrate this twinning.
Murcian Rice
We recommend you to try a homemade rice dish in La Bernarda. Don't forget to book a table!
Who fancies some rice?
The fact that the areas of Valencia and Alicante are located relatively close to the city has favoured both of them to take the fame and recognition for making rice. Although nobody denies this earned reputation, the Murcian region also has a great level for preparing these dishes. If you're fond of these recipes, we recommend you to visit La Bernarda, which is an establishment with great character located on a street named Joaquín Costa, and on the corner of a street called San José, which is right in the middle of Murcia. This restaurant, which serves traditional and family cuisine is very well-known in the city, and has been preparing their own recipes for decades based on local produce. Their speciality is rice dishes, but they also prepare dishes of an international variety. If you're planning on visiting this place during a weekend or on a public holiday, we recommend you to book in advance, as there are many who want to try their homemade rice dishes.
Plaza de Santa Catalina
A visit to Tía Carmen is always worthwhile: that endless tapas bar will drive you crazy.
A lively town square.
Mixing gastronomy with history, we find ourselves on the square called plaza Santa Catalina in the centre of Murcia. This square is considered as the city's authentic town square, and it was here where the residents used to gather together since the Middle Ages for all public acts that even included public executions. But on a lighter note, this place was also considered as Murcia's town square for tapas. There are bars and restaurants here and on the streets around the square that specialise in tapas, as well as local cuisine. Even though all establishments are worth visiting, we recommend you to go to Tía Carmen, which is one of those places visited by regulars that will draw you in, just by seeing the bar. Let them advise you on the choice of tapas, as there is a practically endless variety of them.
Pura Cepa
Homemade dishes and nouvelle cuisine go hand-in-hand with an extensive wine menu. How good does this sound!
Long live Murcian gastronomy.
Safeguarding the famous St. John's Church, you'll find the square named Cristo del Rescate. This square is one of the best spots in the city to explore and discover the typical gastronomy of the area by visiting the local establishments. If you want to discover the real traditional and homemade cuisine among such a variety, we recommend you to visit Pura Cepa. This establishment mixes traditional recipes with new trends to create their own dishes. They have some highly recommended popular combinations for those who want to discover Murcian gastronomy, and who have a culinary interest in discovering new flavours. By the way, they have one of the most extensive and select wine menus in the region of local wines and from other places around the world.
Kennedy's
Suitable for all audiences, with highly recommended gin and tonics or natural shakes and a luxurious cultural agenda.
All an emblem.
This building is located in one of the most emblematic buildings in the city: the nine floors. Specifically in callejón Burruezo, 3. The place has also become one of the emblems of the city, classic but suitable for all audiences and all environments. Open all day and with an Irish style, it is one of the epicenters of cultural activity in Murcia. The monologues and concerts, mainly in an acoustic format, are combined with other cultural alternatives. In addition, they are specialists in cocktails, coffees and other spirits (gin and tonics and other combinations are highly recommended). Since it is located in the old part of the city, it is the ideal place to take a break in the late afternoon and take the opportunity to enjoy its cultural agenda. For the little ones or for those who do not drink alcohol, we recommend that you do not miss the opportunity to try their natural smoothies.
El bosque animado
The party is guaranteed here. They also boast about having any beer you'd like to order. Do you believe it?
Put them to the test.
Making the most of the location of this place, you'll get to know the square named Cristo del Rescate, which is one of the squares of the Murcian capital with the most activity and hustle and bustle both during the day and at night. In fact, the place that we recommend is an ideal place not for eating, but for a drink afterwards, or a few beers before. There are two reasons for this. In first place, el Bosque Animado is a nocturnal institution among the nightlife, as well as being a beautiful establishment with different environments. There's a nice terrace for days with good weather (most days in Murcia), and it's also one of the best local examples for cultural events. But most of all, it has the reputation of being the bar with the most kinds of beer in the region and they claim to have all the types of beer that you want to order, so now you have to put them to the test.
The Street Named Cánovas del Castillo
Do you want to see part of the wall that used to surround Murcia? You'll find it in La Muralla, so why not order something while you're here?
It couldn't be more central.
The central street of Cánovas del Castillo crosses the city centre and leads to a few metres from a square called Plaza de la Candelaria. This street is a destination itself for eating out and tasting typical dishes of Murcian cuisine, so now, we're going to give you a few suggestions. In first place, one of the most well-known places is El Ahorcado Feliz which is a bar with character in the city. In second place, La Muralla is also for lunch or to have something, and we strongly recommend you to go inside this place, as it has an authentic piece of the wall which is still standing, and used to surround the city of Murcia, so you must visit La Muralla even if it's just for the wall. To finish off, and for having the first drink at number 17 of the same street, we recommend you to drop by La Ronería to enjoy some rum, and La Gintonería where you can enjoy some gin.
Plaza de las Flores
Flowers, colours, good weather, terraces, bars, people and more people… Welcome to the square of the Murcian springtime.
Spring is in the air.
Two squares in one. Plaza de las Flores is made up of two squares being Plaza Santa Catalina and Plaza de San Pedro joined together, and it's said that the spring in Murcia starts here. Perhaps this is because when the good weather comes, the square is filled with bright colours of the thousands of flowers that it's made up of and which it's named after. Throughout the whole year, this square is also one of the city's main places for day and night-time activities. The perfect place for having lunch, dinner, or simply having a drink or a bite to eat. The range is practically never ending and it's for all tastes from La Tapa, which is a restaurant that specializes in rice dishes, to La Panocha, which is a well-known local restaurant offering traditional Murcian gastronomy. When the evening comes, and especially in the summer, the square is filled with a nice crowd which proclaims it as one of the perfect places to start off a night tour.
Going Out for Tapas Round Murcia: The Best-Kept Secret.
It's all about the squares: the tapas in the trio of Las Flores, Santa Catalina, and San Pedro are essential.
The most exclusive tapas.
The city of Murcia keeps the secret of being an expert in tapas and pinchos (finger food). Although there are other cities famous for this too, the Murcian tapas tradition has placed the city in a privileged place on the matter, even though it's not common knowledge. It's essential that you start the route at the square named San Juan, as you drop by La Glorieta. Passing along here, you'll find several of the most popular places: El Torrao, La Pequeña, and La Parranda are some of these but the most outstanding is Los Zagales, which is located at the end. The trio of squares which is made up of Plaza de las Flores, Santa Catalina and San Pedro are other destinations where you'll find the best tapas in Murcia, and with a great tradition of having a midday snack. La Taberna de las Mulas, the Fénix, and La Tapa are three of the most popular bars in the area. Now, you just have to decide where you'd like to start.
Mercado de las Verónicas
The commercial activity of this place dates back to the 15th century. If you're looking for history and typical products, you'll find both of these here.
A modern exterior with a historic interior.
Due to its geographical location by the shores of the Mediterranean, the city of Murcia was very important within the commercial map of the Mediterranean, just like many other cities on the east coast of Spain. Over a long period of time, these cities meant the entrance to the peninsula for a large part of their supply, which is why you can find different places that keep the history of these markets. In this sense, in the area known as Plano de San Francisco, you'll find a market called Mercado de las Verónicas. Its commercial activity dates back to the 15th century, and the present building dates back to the first decades of the 20th century with a noticeable modernist style that you can see by its architecture. Also known as the Mercado del Oeste (Western Market), or Mercado de las Verduras (Vegetable Market) for obvious reasons, it's the perfect place to find typical products from the region and to acquire a little more knowledge of the city's history.
Murcian Cusine
I'll definitely be having the produce from the Murcian vegetable garden.
One Pisto de la vega media coming right up!
The geographical position of the region means that it's not only rich in agricultural farming with produce from the land and the sea, it has also been a meeting point for traders who came from all Mediterranean shores, as well as other seas. This special feature has contributed to the region's gastronomy, which makes a clash that mixes typical products from many places, and makes it one of the richest with the most variety. Besides the meat and fish, its famous Murcian vegetable produce is outstanding, among which you can try cucumber salads, ñora peppers with artichokes, and their mixture of vegetables with fish. From these combinations, dishes have been created such as the popular zarangollo, pisto de la vega media, and mojete. Although there are a good handful of restaurants in which you can try all these dishes, we recommend you to drop by the city centre, and specifically to the squares named Plaza Cristo del Rescate, or Plaza de las Flores and their adjoining streets, as it's easy to find an endless number of bars and restaurants that offer local recipes.
Museo Salzillo
Nobody represents Murcian culture like Francisco Salzillo. Voilá - an honourable museum for an exemplary artist.
A tribute to Salzillo.
You should know that Francisco Salzillo was an 18th-century Murcian sculptor who became one of the main examples of baroque imagery. Completely devoted to sculpture, his works were showing the evolution of baroque in the following trends such as rococo and classicism. He is one of the main cultural symbols in the city of Murcia. Fortunately, after many efforts they managed to compile his main works into one building in 2002, and this was how the museum named Museo Salzillo opened, sharing a space with the see of the brotherhood named Cofradía de Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno in the church of Jesus. In fact, this has given the exhibition a new dimension in which you can see the rooms with the artist's main works: the Sala de los Bocetos (Drawing Room), the Sala del Belén y Santo Sudario (The Nativity and Sudarium Room) with the Sala de las Artes Sudarios (Sudarium Arts Room) where you can see the main parts of the paso of this brotherhood.
Museo de Santa Clara
Much more than just a museum: gardens, patios, and a lot of vegetation with the myrtle as the main role.
A waste of Al-Andalus culture.
Although the exact year is unknown, it is known that Ibn Mardanis built a palace at this location. Later, during the 13th century, it was emir Ibn Hud who built his own palace using the foundations of the former palace after the reconquest meant that the Christians won everything back again. In fact, it was Peter the Cruel who gave this place to the Order of Saint Clare during the 14th century (which previously belonged to the abbess Berengaria of Espín). This building was later declared in ruins and was fortunately restored by various institutions offering an area for discovering the different aspects of the Muslim way of life. In first place, you'll see the beautiful Muslim garden that occupies the palace's first patio called Patio de Cruz due to its cross shape. Among the typically Muslim profuse vegetation, myrtle is one of the plants that stands out. In fact, it is supposed that the name of the city derives from the name of this plant. This palace is the perfect manifestation of Al-Andalus culture.
Museo de Moros y Cristianos
The political and religious conflict that Murcia suffered caused a lot of debate, and so much that a museum has been based on it.
Moors and Christians.
If there's an event that marks the history of Murcia, and defines its main characteristics of identity, it's the conflict that Moors and Christians faced during several years. Under the Muslim and Christian religious and political battle, the city and its habitants were continuously at war during a long period of time. But in the year 1242, James of Aragon reconquered the city and the wound between the two nations was opened as the conflict persisted. This curious museum on the street of calle Cartagena shows different aspects of both sides from Kábila clothing and armed retinues that paraded in the annual festivities, to original royal attire and accessories such as crowns and garments which belonged to Prince Alfonso, his wife Violante, and King Ben Hud. All this provides a complete vision of the two sides and shows one of the city's main characteristics, being its heterogeneous culture.
Museo de la Archicofradía de la Sangre
You won't leave here feeling indifferent thanks to its most unexpected and intense sculptures, folklore, and craftsmanship in precious metals.
Simply amazing.
Get ready to see one of the most curious and intense exhibitions that you can find. As you'll know, the region of Murcia has an important religious tradition that perhaps originated from the continuous battles between Christians and Muslims, that were maybe due to the influence of their neighbouring communities, or simply because this place had more influence. In any case, the church named Iglesia del Carmen transferred its installations in 1994 to show the sculptural collection of the Archicofradía de la Preciosísima Sangre. Their collection spans from the 16th century onwards and it isn't exclusive to the field of sculpture, as it also shows craftsmanship in precious metals, clothing, and all kinds of related folkloric elements. Works stand out by Nicolás de Bussy, Juan Dorado, Antonio Campillo and particularly La Dolorosa and La Samaritana by the Murcian sculptor, Roque López, who was Francisco Salzillo's apprentice, and one of Murcia's most important artists.
Museo de la Ciencia y el Agua
An interesting visit, especially if you're travelling with children: the planetarium and the collection of stars will win them over.
The best of the orientations.
The Museo de la Ciencia y el Agua is located next to the footbridge named the Pasarela del Malecón which is a construction by a Madrilenian architect named Manterola, and joins the district of Carmen to the city centre. This museum opened by taking advantage of the old reservoirs that supplied the entire city, but this wasn't the only reason. These reservoirs were actually positioned here during the post-war years and their position was decided by taking their astronomical orientation into account. In fact, as a matter of interest, you should know that the architectural projection of this building coincides with the north/south and east/west parallels, and this is the reason why this museum also houses the planetarium. Although it's true that this museum doesn't have as much to offer as other exhibitions in the city, and it's focused on a more children's age group, they show interesting processes of water treatment and supply, as well as a planetarium that shows more than 2,500 stars with their constellations and different sets of stars.
Museo de la Ciudad
We owe this tour round Murcia to the López Ferrer family who reveal the city's true distinguishing marks.
Discover this museum in the tower called the Torre de Junterón.
Inside this tower called the Torre de Juntarón which was raised in the Murcian capital during the 16th century, you'll find this museum which belongs to the López Ferrer family. On this plot of land, a different museum to the others opened its doors to the public in 1999. The Museo de la Ciudad maintains its objective of showing an evolutionary journey from its origins through to its historic and artistic heritage. Like this, you'll get to discover the distinguishing marks of the area through its ethnography, craftwork, and history. One of the most interesting sections is the exhibition on the change and transformation that the city underwent geographically and urbanely after Alfonso X the Wise's visit with all of his measures for the city, and after the battles between the Christians and the Muslims. You'll also be able to see in detail how people used to live in Murcia during the 17th, 18th, and 20th centuries.
Museo de la Catedral de Murcia
This museum isn't only worth visiting for the works on exhibition… Go to the top of the tower and you'll see why!
Do you like sacred art?
A visit to Murcia cathedral is one of the most intriguing places in the city, so we'll give you some tips that'll help you get the most out of this place. First of all, we recommend you to visit the cathedral's museum, which is located in the magnificent cloisters of this building, and possesses the largest collection of sacred art in the region with works from the Italian Trecento and also by the famous sculptor Salzillo. Besides this, and leaving the visit to the cathedral aside, we recommend you to go to the top of the tower, as you'll see la sala de los secretos (the room of secrets), the chapel, and el balcón de los conjuros (the balcony of the conjuration) which are debated to have been made between the Renaissance and Baroque eras, and of course you'll arrive at the top where you'll see some of the most impressive panoramic views over the city.
Museo de Bellas Artes
That continuous fight between Muslims and Christians is the result of a charming jumble that is perfectly reflected by this museum.
Every cloud has a silver lining.
When you visit the city of Murcia, it's easy to understand that the culture of this region stems from the emergence and the miscegenation of a good number of cultures and religions. Well in to the Middle Ages, it was mainly Christians and Muslims who fought for this territory, which made way for an eclectic culture that draws from all sources. In order to capture this whole mixture in one place, this museum known as the MUBAM was founded in 2005 to show the native artistic initiatives of the city, and the region of Murcia. Spanning a temporal space that starts in the 16th century and finishes in the 20th, you'll find regional and even local artistic trends that share the same place as works by the popular and famous Murillo.
Museo Arqueológico de Murcia
You'll know that you're about to arrive at this museum, which is also called a cultural arts centre, when you see its endless number of palm trees.
A journey through time.
After different difficulties such as wars, conflicts of interest, and political changes that started around 1941, the museum had to wait until 1864 to open to the public, but the wait was worth it. Nowadays, this museum is home to an important collection which is distributed over two floors, and recreates a journey through time from the Murcian paleolithic period, to the arrival of Christianity on the peninsula. In fact, you can see different manuscripts from the era of the Roman Empire on the peninsula, as well as a collection of very interesting sculptures. This museum known as a cultural arts centre is located at number 7 of the avenue called Alfonso X el Sabio, which is easily recognised by seeing the very tall palm trees that guard the entrance.
Hydraulic Museum - Molinos del Río Space - Stables
Do you know how a mill works? With this visit you will know this and much more! Do not miss it.
A highly recommended museum.
Throughout the history of Murcia, it can be seen how the cultivation and trade of cereals, flour, vegetables and salt are the basic pillars of the region's economy. For this reason, this museum is so important, which, located in the space known as the Old Mill of 24 Stones, preserves and shows how the mill itself works, teaching visitors the process of creating flour, with its machinery. original. On the other hand, the building is used as a study and research center of different local and regional aspects as well as an exhibition center. Just the permanent exhibition How a Mill Works already justifies a visit. However, you still have to visit the area of Caballerizas, although we leave this for you to discover for yourself.
The Hieronymites Monastery
Hidden in La Ñora, this building is impressive due to its architecture and its history.
The Murcian El Escorial
Nicknamed El Escorial of Murcia, the Hieronymites Monastery is one of the most impressive buildings that you can find in this region, and it doesn't lack in history either. Located in the outskirts of the city of Murcia and in the small town of La Ñora, its chronology dates back to the 14th century. The Catholic church underwent a decline in its ranks, especially in this area, which was caused by the disparity of criterion among its members. Taken by the unease of this crisis, a group of nuns decided to join and imitate the solitary life of the wise St. Jerome, and this was how the monastery of St. Bartholomew of Lupiana in Guadalajara was founded in 1350. These were the grounds for the Caravaca Hospice and the Hieronymites Monastery that we are referring to. Unfortunately, the former of the monasteries previously mentioned succumbed to the hard sale of church lands during 1835.
St. Peter's Church
This church has a hectic and interesting history and it's the headquarters of the Diocese of Cartagena nowadays. Do you feel like visiting it?
Muslim beginnings.
Using the ruins of a former Muslim temple, the construction work on this church began during the first third of the 17th century and was erected in the centre of Murcia. This building was part of Alfonso X the Wise's initiatives which in turn came from other measures of a more political and territorial nature by James I of Aragon who was responsible for Christianizing the whole region of Murcia. This is why you usually find religious buildings built over old Muslim monuments in the city and throughout the entire province. Inside this building, decorated under baroque parameters, you can see works by Nicolás Salzillo and Roque López, as well as paintings by Senén Vila. The church is located on the square named San Pedro and despite having been passed down from family to family throughout the last few centuries, it's now one of the headquarters for the Diocese of Cartagena and it's open to the public.
Convento de la Merced
If something stands out in Murcian artistic heritage, it's the sculptures by Nicolás Salzillo that this convent conceals.
The Franciscans rule here.
With the same history of the Palacio Episcopal, the origin of this church is closely related to the flooding of the Segura River. Back in the 11th century, a primeval convent for the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mercy already existed in the suburbs called San Juan el Real during periods which Christianity didn't reign in the taifa of Murcia. However, the continuous floods of the Segura often flooded these areas which meant that reconstructions were practically on-going. In this way, and with the arrival of the first Christian movements that finished with the uprising of James I of Aragon, it was made sure that this church was positioned in the city centre. It wasn't until 1705 however, when construction began on the present church which is built over the foundations of the former convent. Although this is a Franciscan church nowadays, it still maintains a great artistic heritage of that period among which the works by the sculptor Nicolás Salzillo stand out, who was settled in the city at the end of the 17th century.
Real Casino
You are facing Murcia's most visited building, which is quite an achievement considering its ups and downs, and continuous refurbishments. Bravo!
A Murcian icon.
Crossing the street named Trapería in the very centre of Murcia and barely a few metres from the cathedral, you'll find this emblematic building, which is one of the city's most recognisable icons. Although this building was constructed during the 19th century, it seems like it has always been here due to the taste with which the different artistic trends of its architecture have been mixed, and turn it into one of those timeless looking buildings. Its destiny, however, didn't have the same luck. As a privately run private club since 1847, it has gone through its ups and downs by undergoing its practically cyclic and continuous refurbishments. Now, what was carried out during 2006 and 2009 to get the place back on track made it worthy of the title Real (or royal) which was awarded by His Majesty the King Juan Carlos. The Real Casino is currently the most visited building in the city of Murcia.
Palacio Episcopal
No matter what, don't miss its viewpoint called Mirador del Obispo which offers magnificent views of the city, and the Segura River.
Spectacular architecture.
Everything started with a flood and a demolition. During 1733, the Segura River flooded the city of Murcia. In turn, the walls of what used to be the Alcazar Palace on the square of Cardenal Belluga used to cast their shadows over the majestic cathedral. For these two reasons, this old building was demolished since the water had damaged its foundations and the cathedral had to shine in all its glory. However, the construction wasn't complete until 1786 which gave way to another one of the city's most spectacular buildings. In fact, it's said that the two buildings next to the cathedral itself (which has now left a space), make up the most important ones in the region from an architectural point of view. This curious construction of a rococo aesthetic is made up of two buildings joined together mixed with other artistic trends and styles such as its Doric patio. But of course the most spectacular of all here is the viewpoint called Mirador del Obispo from where you can see the Segura River, and a large part of the Murcian city.
Almundí
The Sala de las Columnas (or Pillar Room) in this palace is one of the places that you must see when you are wandering round the city.
A palace for 4,000 maravedís.
4000 maravedies was the cost for Esteban Fernández to complete the construction of this palace in 1440. A construction that was in process since 1272 when Alfonso X the Wise decided that this place was to be the chosen location. It was here, next to the Puerta del Puente, and the Arrixaca estate, which was also near the old market, where this building was established with the purpose of logistically supporting the purchase and sale of cereals (one of the main commercial activities, centuries ago in the city of Murcia). Over time, the palace was left deserted and nowadays it's the headquarters of the archive of rare and historical manuscripts, possessing an important exhibition room known by the name of Sala de las Columnas (or Pillar Room) in which a large part of the city's cultural heritage is stored and exhibited. Together with the Malecon Gardens, this is a must-visit to know the Christian Murcia of 1272, up to the Murcia that we know nowadays.
The University of Murcia
April, 1272 was the date it was founded but that's nothing - what a historical background this university has!
Officiated by Alfonso X the Wise.
The University of Murcia is one of the most important in Spain. Scattered over different campuses throughout the city, it keeps a sound and unique history as a unifying thread. The common grounds of this institution date back to none other than 6th April 1272 and it's closely linked to Alfonso X the Wise, hence his figure which is framed in the university's coat of arms. As for the university's foundation, this was marked by a document from this humanist in which the land and the Arrixaca vegetable garden were transferred by order of the Dominicans so that they could build their convent, and this is how the university began. However, this didn't work in a continuous or recognised way over time. In fact, it wasn't recognised or awarded the title of the University of Murcia as we know it nowadays, until 23rd March 1915.
Las Claras
First Islamic, then Christian… It's no wonder that its museum is of such great cultural interest.
History against ideology.
The history of the region of Murcia has been marked by the fight between the Christian and Muslim kingdoms and the city changed hands between these kingdoms over centuries. The Santa Clara la Real Convent is one of the best examples to understand this city. This spectacular building has been a nunnery for the nuns of the Order of Saint Clare since the 14th century. This wasn't its origin however as it dates back to the 12th century during the Islamic Alcazar period. After the movement led by James I of Aragon between 1264 and 1266, Murcia became Christian and this place called Alcazar Seguir was the residence of famous figures such as Alfonso X the Wise, Violant of Aragon and Hungary, and James I himself. It remained like this until 1365 when it was converted into the residence for the Order of Saint Clare. Nowadays, this building has a very interesting museum that explains all periods of the city's history, step by step, and is home to one of the most important collections of sacred Muslim art.
Teatro Romea
Not even the many fires could destroy this theatre: welcome to the most emblematic building of Murcian culture!
A very musical facade.
The busts of the three musicians Beethoven, Mozart, and Liszt proudly show off the facade of the Teatro Romea, which is one of the most emblematic buildings in the city, and undoubtedly the cultural symbol of the region. This building was a project that started in the middle of the 19th century due to the city's efforts of promoting cultural areas. Although this building has an essentially neoclassic style, it also features a mixture of trends, and most of this heterogeneity is a consequence of the several fires that this theatre endured. The latest fire of 1985 resulted in an important refurbishment, especially for the appearance of its stage, which has made it to the forefront of the country's theatres nowadays. Now, the most important shows in the region come to take the stage in this place: modern and classic music concerts, theatre, dance shows, dancing, and a long list of global performances, which is why we recommend you to take a look at their activity programme.
The Cathedral of Murcia
The city shines with this Gothic style cathedral that also has pieces of other architectural periods. You must take a photo of this cathedral.
What a tower!
It was during the year 1266, when James I of Aragon was sent by Prince Alfonso (who later became King Alfonso 'the Wise') to enter Murcia and convert it into a Christian city. Backed by the Diocese of Cartagena, he arrived to the city and his first task was to introduce himself to what was then the Alijama or Great Mosque. During 1291, this building was reconverted and dedicated to St. Mary, which meant the first step for this building to be converted into a cathedral. However, it had to wait until 1465 for its consecration as the Cathedral Church of St. Mary when the building underwent an important refurbishment which has been preserved practically up to the present day. Despite its initial Gothic style, however, the cathedral acquired some popular changes such as the Vélez Chapel and the Chapel of Junterón (both from the 16th century and both cornerstones of the visit), or its monumental 93-metre tall bell tower that can be seen from different parts of the city. It is said that Alfonso the Wise's heart rests in the main chapel.
Find your trip to Murcia
Documents for travelling as a tourist to Murcia
Check the documents you need for your trip.