Murcia is a sun-drenched city in eastern Spain. Here you can enjoy delicious food, get acquainted with rich history edges 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 particularly noteworthy are 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 to the west 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 you can 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 here.
The monastery was built in 1300 on the site of the palace-fortress of the Almohad dynasty - the Muslim rulers of Murcia. This explains the large number of decorative architectural elements in the Arabic style, such as 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 of 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. At the Plaza del Cardenal Belluga you can see some of the best monuments Murcia. 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, a modern building was added to the town hall, designed by Rafael Moneo, 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 of 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 clearly visible 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 look at the majestic grand staircase. One of the doors leads to the Baroque chapel, where malts consecrated during the service are displayed around the clock.
Address: Palacio Episcopal, Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, 1, 30001 Murcia, Spain.
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Monteagudo Castle. | Photo: wikimedia. On the territory of the northeastern 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 – central market 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 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 quality water.
Beach bars are everywhere - they look especially tempting when the sea air your appetite will work up. For lovers active recreation 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.
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 the tourist office in Piazza 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 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, worth a visit at least for 1-2 days.
Sights of Murcia
You can start your sightseeing in Murcia from the pedestrian 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 more panoramic view to the Cathedral. The modern palace building is a magnificent example architectural style Rococo and Baroque 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
The Casino of Murcia (Real Casino de Murcia), located in the city center near the Cathedral, is one of the most emblematic buildings of the city. Construction of the casino building began in 1847; the facade 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 and 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 other historical buildings and beautiful palaces, so it would also be useful for tourists to take a walk along it.
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.
In the Terra Natura Zoo you can see 300 animals 50 various types. Representatives of the hot Savannah and the Iberian Peninsula live here. The cost of visiting the zoo is 25 euros, for children 20 euros, winter time– 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?
A relatively large Spanish city with a population of about 450 thousand people, famous for its religious holidays. His historical center retained the baroque appearance of the 18th century. You need to come here to get acquainted with its rich history and unique architecture.
Location and climate
The city of Murcia is located in southeastern Spain. It is located 40 km from the Mediterranean coast inland of the peninsula, stands on the banks of the Rio Segura River, in the middle of a fertile valley, surrounded by rocky mountains. The sea influences the climate: in summer it is dry, hot, the temperature reaches +35°C, sometimes even higher (Murcia is often called the “Spanish frying pan”). Winters are wet, mild, with average temperature+11° C. There is little precipitation, and droughts often occur. When the rainy periods begin, the water of Segura rises and floods occur.
Murcia sightseeing map
Bishop's Palace
Murcia Town Hall
Fountain "Sardine"
Malecon pedestrian bridge
Casino of Murcia
Plaza Santo Domingo
Romea Square
Plaza de las Flores
Sights of Murcia
Cathedral of Murcia
Catedral de Murcia was founded in 1385 on the foundations of a former mosque. It was built until the middle of the 15th century. The 90-meter tower was built over more than two centuries (1591–1793). By the appearance of the bell tower of the temple, one can trace the evolution of the architecture of Spain: the two lower tiers are Renaissance, the two middle ones are Baroque, the fifth tier with a belfry is made in the spirit of Rococo, and at the top there is a neoclassical dome. The main facade of the cathedral is an example of early religious baroque in Spain. The interiors have retained their Gothic appearance.
Bishop's Palace
Palacio Episcopal de Murcia was founded in the 17th century and completed in 1786. The palace complex consists of two buildings: a high observation deck Martillo and the residence, decorated in the spirit of mannerism. The walls of the buildings are painted with bright fresco patterns. In the interior of the palace, the greatest interest is the Bishop's Chapel, the imperial staircase and the patio with three arcades. The balcony of the palace is decorated with the shield of Bishop Rohe.
Murcia Town Hall
Ayuntamiento or Casa consistorial de Murcia stands in the central square of Glorieta. Until the 16th century, there was a Moorish building here. The modern neoclassical Town Hall with a portico of four columns and a triangular pediment was built in 1848 according to a design by Belmonte.
Old Bridge and Sardine Fountain
Puente Viejo over the Rio Segura is often called the Bridge of Danger. The stone structure was built in 1718–42. designed by Toribio Martinez de la Vega. The name Puente de los Peligros was given to it thanks to the wooden statue of Our Lady of Perils, installed in a niche on the south side.
You can see the fountain from the old bridge. The figure of a huge fish “swims” along the river, a stream of water shoots out of its mouth. The 12-meter bronze sculpture weighing 12 tons is the work of Miguel Llamos. The fountain symbolizes the Murcian folk festival "Funeral of the Sardine", declared a cultural event of international importance.
Malecon pedestrian bridge
Puente Malecón is a steel structure on cables without a lower support, designed for a load of up to 80 tons. It connects the city center with the right bank area of Barrio del Carmen. The length of the bridge is 60 m.
Royal Casino
Casino de Murcia (photo: José Antonio Rodríguez Martín)
Real Casio de Murcia is located near the Cathedral, on Traperia Street. The architecture of the building combines late Baroque, neo-Moorish, neoclassical styles with elements of modernism. The casino was built by the architect Pedro Cerdan, the interior decor of the patio, stylized as the Alhambra, was made by Manuel Castaños. The most impressive of the interior spaces is the Ballroom, created in 1875. The Royal Casino contains a Victorian library with a collection of 20,000 volumes.
Plaza Santo Domingo
The historical square of Santo Domingo was called Market Square until the 19th century. Above it rises the facade of a dilapidated temple of the same name with twin towers. The pedestrian street Trapería leads to the Plaza de Santo Domingo from the Cathedral.
Romea Square
In Romea Square (Plaza de Julian Romea), adjacent to Santo Domingo, stands the neoclassical building of the Romea Theater, built in the mid-19th century. This is the most important cultural center Murcia. The theater and square are named after the famous Murcian actor, Julian Romea.
Square of Flowers
Plaza de las Flores is a pedestrian area with a fountain in the middle and benches under the shade of trees. This is the main place of relaxation and socializing in Murcia: bars and restaurants are open here; Numerous kiosks sell coffee, drinks, and tapas.
Antonio Campillo Sculpture Park
Antonio Campillo Sculpture Park (photo: Rufino Jimnez)
Parque Escultorico Antonio Campillo is located on Prince of Asturias Avenue. The exhibition has been open since 2010. Nine bronze plastic compositions depicting women in everyday life are exhibited here. One of the works, “Venus and the Bicycle,” was awarded the Salcillo National Prize. In the center of the park is a bust-self-portrait of Campillo himself.
Francisco Salcillo Museum (photo: Eulalia Rubio)
The Museo Salzillo is located in the Church of Jesus in Plaza Agustinas. It contains collections of works by the famous sculptor, native of Murcia, Francisco Salcillo. The famous master created compositions based on biblical subjects: “The Last Supper”, “Jesus in Gethsemane”, “Prayer for the Cup”. Salcillo's works occupy arched niches in the walls of the temple. Five figures of Jesus are also kept here, with which townspeople parade through the streets during Holy Week.
Museum of Fine Arts (photo: IFRA ASESORES)
The Museo de Bellas Artes has existed since the 19th century. It is housed in an eclectic building built in 1910. The exhibition contains paintings from the Renaissance and Baroque eras. One of the halls is entirely dedicated to Murcian art. The museum has created thematic exhibitions of allegory, decorative painting, and Costumbrist art.
Archaeological Museum (photo: Morini33)
The Museo Arqueologico is located in a building dating back to 1867 on Gran Via de Alfonso X. The Museo Arqueologico exhibition occupies 16 rooms. Fossil finds from Paleolithic times to the Visigothic kingdom are collected here. In the Murcia Museum you can see the richest Spanish collection of artifacts from the Iberian era. One of the halls is dedicated to rock paintings included in the UNESCO list. The museum also displays a collection of ceramics and tableware from the 19th century.
Museum of Science and Water (photo: mutanazos)
The Museo de la Ciencia y del Agua is located on the banks of the Rio Segura. The interactive exhibitions of this institution will be of interest to children: you can interact with the exhibits - turn them on, click on them. There is a planetarium and aquariums with a rich collection of underwater fauna.
Events, holidays, events
Murcia (photo: vinylculture)
City holidays in Murcia are always bright and cheerful events. People prepare for carnivals here long before they start; tourists come to the festive processions from all over Europe.
Large-scale celebrations begin in April: after Holy Week comes the Festa de Primavera - the Spring Festival (Bando de la Huerta).
In May, the Festival of Three Cultures (Festival Internacional Murcia Tres Culturas) takes place, reminiscent of the times when power was divided between Christians, Jews, and Muslims.
In autumn, the Feria de Murcia fair is held, dedicated to the patron saint of Our Lady of Fuensanta.
History of the city
University of Murcia (photo: Haplomitico)
The first settlement on the lands that Murcia occupies today belonged to the Iberians. The city was founded by the Moors in 825. At first it was part of the Cordoba Caliphate, then the capital of the independent Taifa of Murcia. In the 13th century the city flourished. Ceramic products of Murcian craftsmen were exported outside the Kingdom of Spain, and the famous Murcian silks were famous throughout Europe.
Over time most The population of the city became Christian, religious conflicts and uprisings began. Madina Mursiya was under Muslim rule until 1243. Alfonso X liberated it, but Christians finally occupied the city only in 1266. Twice in history - in the 14th and 17th centuries - local residents were decimated by the plague. Since 1862 it has been laid railway. During the 1936 conflicts between Republicans and Francoists, many churches were destroyed. Since 1982, the city received the status of the capital of an autonomous community.
The local population speaks several languages: in addition to the native Spaniards, Latin Americans live here, people from North Africa. The city has a university, one of the oldest in Spain - today it is attended by 38 thousand students.
How to get to Murcia?
Murcia Airport is located 40 km in the city of San Javier - Murcia-San Javier (Aeropuerto de Murcia-San Javier). He serves like domestic flights, and international.
Murcia railway station (photo: pintatrenes)
- From Murcia you can travel by train in 4 hours 30 minutes. or by bus in 5 hours. Ticket prices are approximately: €76 for the train or €33 for the bus.
- You can get from Murcia by train or bus in 3 – 3.5 hours. Ticket prices are approximately: for the train – €35, for the bus – €24.
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