Murcia Spain attractions Russian speaking guide. 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 to know him rich history and unique architecture.

Location and climate

The city of Murcia is located in southeastern Spain. It is 40 km away from Mediterranean coast deep into 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: the high observation deck of 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 on central square 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. Stone structure built 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 middle XIX century. This is the most important cultural center of 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.

City `s history

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 of the city's population became Christian, and 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 XIV and XVII centuries - local residents the plague decimated. Since 1862 it has been laid Railway. During the 1936 conflicts between the 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). It serves both domestic flights and international flights.

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.
• From

Your little neighbor. And in vain, because in Murcia, at every step you can see what travelers value so much - history and beauty.

Murcia is a land of orchards where lemons are especially popular: they are used everywhere, even in cakes made from lemon leaves. And Murcia itself is somewhat similar to lemon candy - sometimes it seems sweet and pleasant to the taste, sometimes it burns your mouth with acid. This is the history of the city itself - a change of sweet and sour, ups and downs.

• The region of Murcia is called the “garden of Europe” – most of fruits and vegetables , such as citrus fruits, cherries, almonds, quinces and much more, in Nordic countries They are brought from here.
• Murcia is not called the “hot frying pan of Spain” because it has 330 sunny days per year or that it was here that the temperature maximum of Spain was recorded, but because the city is sandwiched among mountain peaks, which interferes with air circulation.
• The Segura River, unfortunately, is considered one of the most polluted in Europe.

City `s history

Archaeological excavations on the spot modern city Murcia show that life existed here back in the Neolithic era. This land on the banks of the Segura River was then captured by the Romans. But the city's real history begins during the Caliphate, in 825, when it was officially founded by the Emir of Cordoba, Abd al-Rahman II.

Most historians translate the name “Murcia” as “Country of Myrtles” or “Country of Mulberries” (Latin: Murtae). The second version is that it is simply a village belonging to Murtius (Murtius - general roman name). Over time, the Latin pronunciation gave way to Arabic, and this is how Murcia turned out.

The Arabs laid out the city around the Segura River and provided it with a good irrigation system. In the 12th century, according to an Arab geographer, it was “a densely populated and well-fortified city.” The city was advanced in terms of technology: ceramics, silkworm and paper production flourished here, almost the first in Europe.

For several centuries, Murcia was a bone of contention between Muslims and Christians, until in 1304 it finally became part of the Castilian crown. The 18th century saw the peak of Murcia's economic prosperity thanks to silk production, but in the 19th century the city suffered a series of tragedies - plunder by Napoleon's troops, terrible earthquakes, floods, plague and cholera. But at the same time, the city was enriched with many artistic attractions.

Attractions

Every Saturday, the municipality of Murcia organizes a free tour of the sights of the Old Town. Registration for it is required, collection is in one of the buildings on Cardinal Beluga Square.

All tourist routes in Murcia begin with a visit to the Cathedral, which attracts not only for its antiquity - the main building was completed in 1394-1465, but also because it is an example of centuries-old eclecticism. For example, construction began in the Italian Gothic style, and the bell tower in the Renaissance style, then the project passed into the hands of masters working in the Baroque style, then Rococo and later Neoclassicism. The main façade of the cathedral, completed in the 18th century, is one of the masterpieces of the Spanish Baroque.

The height of the cathedral reaches 93 meters, there are 25 bells on the bell tower, and there are Observation deck, which offers a beautiful view of the city. The cathedral is located on Cardinal Beluga Square, where, in addition to it, there are several other objects of tourist interest - the Bishop's Palace (XVIII century) and an architectural novelty, which, as usual, caused controversy at the beginning of its existence - an extension to the city hall, completed in 1998 according to the project architect Rafael Moneo.

Shopping and entertainment

Almost all the streets of the old city are of artistic interest. The main ones are Plateria and Traperia. The traperia leads from the cathedral to the former market square, where there is another striking representative of the city's architectural heritage and one of the most beautiful buildings in Murcia - the Casino, built in the 19th century.

Interestingly, the name of Plateria Street comes from the word plata, meaning silver, and this is where jewelry shops and workshops were located in the past. And Traperia is, essentially, Rag Street. And today this area remains a center for shopping - tourism, weddings, jewelry.

In 1862, Queen Isabel II visited the city to open the new Theater of the Infants. Today it is the Teatro Romea, named after the famous local actor Julián Romea. The theater is famous not only for its magnificent building, but also for its beautiful interior, and most importantly, for its magical acoustics, which turns every performance into a masterpiece.

Back in the 13th century, Alfonso X founded the Universitas Studiorum Murciana in the city. In its place, in the mid-19th century, the Free University opened its doors, which in turn became the basis of the University of Murcia, which opened in 1915, the third oldest in the country. The university has an Aquarium filled with the most interesting inhabitants of the seas and oceans from all over the world.

How to get to Murcia

Murcia is a cozy southern town in Spain that boasts its baroque architecture, colorful festivals and picturesque surroundings. Unlike neighboring Alicante and Valencia, Murcia is visited by a relatively small number of tourists, which makes the town even more intimate for those who do not like crowds of tourists and want to enjoy the authenticity of the city. You should definitely come here if you want to see a “piece” of non-tourist Spain in its original appearance and with its everyday way of life.

Murcia has its own arrival airport, but there are no direct flights from Russia yet. You can fly with a transfer in one of the Spanish cities, for example, with a transfer in Barcelona or Madrid. Murcia San Javier Airport is not located in the city itself, but in its surroundings. You can get from the airport to the city by taxi/transfer. You can find a taxi when leaving the terminal; you can also order a car in advance through online transfer services, for example, at and others similar. Travel time from the airport to the city will be approximately 40 minutes. There is no direct bus service between the airport and the city.

Tourists also often come to Murcia from neighboring Alicante. Alicante has its own international Airport arrival, which accepts incl. and flights from Russia. Flight schedules can be checked on search services. Aviasales , Buruki and others. Then you can get from Alicante to Murcia by train, bus or rented car.

Alicante – Murcia

The distance between Alicante and Murcia is about 80 km. There are direct train and bus connections between the cities. Trains depart from Alicante up to 5 times a day, the journey time is about 1.5 hours. You can check the schedule and purchase tickets online at the railway service . Buses run more frequently, in fact 2-3 times per hour throughout the day. Buses depart from Alicante station, Estacion de Autobuses Nueva, and arrive at Murcia station, Estacion de Autobuses. There are also Shuttle Buses, which run directly from Alicante airport.

For independent tourists, an option such as renting a car at Alicante airport or at city offices is also suitable. This option is very common and is popular, especially among those travelers who do not plan to limit themselves to visiting one city. Alicante and Murcia are connected by highway No. A7; the journey takes about 1 hour. You can book the desired class of car for your trip in advance, even before the trip. This can be done through special services , , and some others. To register a car for rent on the spot, you will need to present a foreign passport, an international driving license and a bank card to pay for services.

Murcia Hotels

TRYP Murcia Rincon de Pepe 4* – this hotel located in the heart of Murcia, 100 m from the Cathedral. There are 2 restaurants and a cocktail bar on site. Guests can stay in rooms of varying sizes, including family rooms. The type of food offered is breakfast. Wi-Fi is available throughout the entire hotel free of charge. Private paid parking is available nearby. The reception is open 24 hours a day;

Catalonia Conde de Floridablanca 4*– the hotel is located in the city center, within walking distance of the main attractions. The hotel has a bar, restaurant and fitness center. The hotel has rooms of varying sizes, some with a balcony. The type of food offered is breakfast. Wi-Fi is provided free of charge. Paid public parking is available nearby. The hotel also offers luggage storage. The reception is open 24 hours a day;

Hotel Cetina 3*– the hotel is located within walking distance of the Roman Bridge, which is considered one of the main attractions of Murcia. Guests can stay in rooms of varying sizes, including family rooms. Some of them have a balcony or terrace. Depending on the room type, breakfast may be included in the price or available at an additional cost. Wi-Fi is free. Paid public parking is available nearby. The 24-hour front desk also provides luggage storage services;

NH Murcia Centro 3* – the hotel has a good location in the city center. The hotel has its own fitness room. Guests can stay in rooms of varying sizes, each equipped with a coffee maker or kettle. Meals – breakfast according to the “ Buffet" Wi-Fi is available free of charge throughout the hotel. Private parking is available nearby. The reception is open 24 hours a day;

Hotel El Churra 3* – the hotel is located near the city center. The hotel has a restaurant and fitness center. You can stay in rooms of varying sizes; breakfast is available for an additional fee. The hotel also has family rooms. Wi-Fi is provided free of charge. You can find it locally paid parking. The front desk is open 24 hours a day and offers luggage storage and a tour desk.

Sights of Murcia

The main attractions of Murcia are historical monuments different eras and times. The central composition in the city is considered Cathedral Square And Cathedral Murcia. Construction of the cathedral began at the end of the 14th century, and then continued until the 18th century. It is not surprising that its appearance mixed different architectural styles - Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassicism, and the internal appearance of the cathedral has Gothic features. Adjacent to the cathedral is a 98-meter Bell tower, which also combines different styles.

In addition to the Cathedral, to the historical and architectural monuments cities can also be classified as Bishop's Palace(17th century), city ​​hall (19th century), Roman Bridge, Royal Casino, Romea Square, Las Flores Square, Plaza Santo Domingo and some other objects. All of them are concentrated in the central part of Murcia, in the so-called “old town”.

While in Murcia, you should not lose sight of its surroundings, where the most mysterious castles and fortresses and majestic natural parks. For example, it is of interest Monteagudo fortress, located on the top of a mountain surrounded by lemon gardens. At the very top of the fortress stands a 14-meter statue of Christ. The fortress is considered an excellent example medieval architecture. The fortress is located just a few kilometers from Murcia, you can get there by public transport, so it’s worth visiting the historical monument even if you come to Murcia for just 1 day.

If you come to Murcia by car and want to see not only architectural sights, but also natural ones, then in the vicinity of the city there is natural Park Sierra Espuña. These are vast territories, a mixture of rocky mountains and coniferous forests, with rich flora and fauna. There are many trekking routes and routes in the park, and from the very high point The park offers stunning panoramic views. Due to its size, it is better to move around the park by car.

Murcia is a sun-drenched city in eastern Spain. Here you can enjoy delicious food, learn about the rich history of the region and admire the majestic Baroque architecture. It seems that no one is in a hurry in this city - even the Cathedral was built here for 300 years.

There are really a lot of attractions in Murcia, but don’t rush to see them all at once. Every day, choose no more than two objects from the list below, so that you have time to sit in cozy cafes or leisurely stroll through squares and parks. Here's an overview of what to see in Murcia.

Casino 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 historical architecture and luxury - it recalls 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.

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.

Plaza de las Flores is located just west of the Cathedral. This is one of the most beautiful city squares. It got its name because of the numerous flower stalls that still operate here today.

The town mansions surrounding the square date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. For example, Edificio de Tejidos Abad is a beautiful three-story Art Nouveau building with rectangular white bay windows. In the morning, it’s nice to sit at a table in a cafe, and in the evening, go to one of the bars to drink beer with a delicious tapas snack.

Address: Plaza de las Flores, 30820 Alcantarilla, Murcia, Spain.

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.

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.

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, according to the design of Rafael Moneo, an extension was added to the town hall modern building, which contrasts markedly with the surrounding lush architecture. Here on the square is the Bishop's Palace, an 18th-century building in the Rococo style. It complements the Baroque extensions of the Cathedral.

Address: Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, 5-6, 30001 Murcia, Spain.

This museum is not visited by many tourists, but it will certainly interest those who are passionate about history. There are more than 2,000 archaeological sites throughout the Murcia region. In addition to the Roman and Moorish heritage, the museum exhibits the best exhibits of Iberian culture of the Bronze and Iron Ages.

From the drawings on the ceramics it is clear how much trade with the Phoenicians and Etruscans meant to the Iberians. In the museum you can see the amazing historical exhibit León de Coy - an almost abstract sculpture of a lion, found in a necropolis of the 4th century BC. e.

Address: Murcia Archaeological Museum, Av. Alfonso X el Sabio, 7, 30008 Murcia, Spain.

Palacio Episcopal next to the Cathedral is one of the most striking attractions in the center of Murcia. Here you can admire the magnificent facade of the palace, wander around the courtyard, and also consider the majestic main staircase. One of the doors leads to the Baroque chapel, where the mallow consecrated during the service is displayed around the clock.

Address: Palacio Episcopal, Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, 1, 30001 Murcia, Spain.

Last minute tours to Spain:

On the territory of the north-eastern suburban area rises a rocky limestone hill 149 m high. On its slopes stands the ancient fortress Monteagudo Castle. The first thing that catches your eye is the huge statue of Christ on top of the castle. This is a replica of the original monument that has stood on the hill since 1926.

The replica was erected in the early 1950s after the original statue was destroyed during the 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.

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.

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.

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 is the epitome of rapid growth 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 beaches marked Blue flag for high water quality.

Beach bars are visible everywhere - they look especially tempting when the sea air has worked up an appetite. For lovers active rest You will like the Mar Menor lagoon separated from the sea. She is considered one of the most major 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.

Murcia - capital of the autonomous region and province, 400 km southeast of and 150 km south of. About 340 thousand people live here. This beautiful city with majestic cathedral, built on the site of a Moorish mosque, and several palaces.

Murcia weather:

Getting around Murcia:

Murcia is located away from the coast Mediterranean Sea, in the so-called Huerta - a fertile plain crossed by several rivers and irrigation canals. The city stands on the banks of the Segura River; the historical center is on the left, northern side.

The railway station is located at south coast Segura, 1 km from the city center; bus - 20 min. walk from the historical center.

From the Old Bridge (Puente Viejo) begins Gran Via del Escultor Francisco Salzillo, the main street named after one of the most famous natives of Murcia, an 18th-century sculptor. Francisco Salcillo (there is his museum in the western part of the city). To the east of Gran Via is the University, and closer to the river are the old city quarters, the streets of which are oriented towards the main city attraction - the cathedral. Murcia retains its 18th-century appearance and is worth a visit for those who appreciate sculpture and Baroque architecture. You can see the main attractions in half a day.

Tourist offices of Murcia:

• City Tourist Office
  • Plaza del Cardenal Belluga,
    968 35 87 49, Sun 10.00-14.00, May-Oct. Mon-Sat 10.00-14.00, 16.00-20.00, June-Sept. Mon-Sat 10.00-14.00, 17.00-21.30.
• Regional Tourist Office
  • Plaza Romea, 4, 902 10 10 70, Mon-Fri 9.00-14.00, 17.00-19.00, Sat 10.30-13.00, closed Sun.

How to get to Murcia:

Railway station

• Alameda de Colon.
• (5 times a day, 4 hours 45 minutes, 33.65 €) via Albacete (1 hour 45 minutes, 19.65 €);
• (1 hour 45 minutes, 3.50 €) ;
• Lorca (once per hour, 3.65 €).

Murcia Bus Station:

• Calle de la Sierra de la Pila.
• (up to 10 times a day, 5 hours, 20.65 €),
• (2.80 €) ,
• (1 hour, 3.75 €),
• Barcelona (5 times a day, 8 hours 45 minutes, 37 €),
• Valencia (7 times a day, 4 hours 45 minutes, 11.90€),
• , Lorca (once per hour, 4.10 €) ,
• Almeria (4-6 times a day, 2 hours 45 minutes, 13.75 €),
• Malaga (5 times a day, 6 hours 15 minutes, 25.25 €).

50 km from Murcia is San Javier Airport, from which a bus runs twice a day.

Tourist route in Murcia:

Sights of Murcia:

Central square of the city, Glorieta de España(Glorieta de Esparia), turned into a public garden, is located on the embankment of the Segura River, near the exit from the Old Bridge; administrative buildings of the city are located here municipality(Ayuntamiento,1848) and archbishop's palace(Palacio Archibichop, Baroque).

Murcia Cathedral:

Behind them, on the Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, is the main treasure of Murcia - Cathedral of Santa Maria(Catedral de Santa Maria, summer 10.00-13.00, 18.00-20.00, winter 10.00-13.00, 17.00-19.00). It began to be built on the site of an ancient mosque in 1358 in the Gothic style, but in the 16th century. the building was rebuilt.

In the second half of the 18th century, after a great flood, the Murcia Cathedral acquired its modern look, combining Gothic interiors, Baroque exteriors and Renaissance stone carvings. The central facade of the cathedral, created in 1739-1754. according to the project of the architect. X. Borta, considered one of the best examples of Spanish Baroque. Since the cathedral is dedicated to the Mother of God, the plot depicted on the main western facade is connected with her: the Ascension of the Virgin Mary.

The other two portals of the cathedral date back to an earlier time: the south portal of the Apostles(Portada del Apostols, 1463) is decorated with Gothic sculpture (1463), and the northern Portal of Chains(Portada de las Cadenas, 1515) - a Renaissance stone ornament symbolically depicting chains. The temple has a small museum where religious objects and religious paintings are kept, Hunteron Chapel(Capilla de Junteron), decorated with stone carvings in the Plateresque style and Veles Chapel(Capilla de los Velez, XV), the tomb of the Marquises of Velez, where rich carvings and a Gothic ribbed vault have also been preserved.

It is worth climbing the 92-meter bell tower with an observation deck.

Casino of Murcia:

From the cathedral along the pedestrian Calle Traperia (Traperia street), which was main street medieval Murcia, you can go to casino Casino (Calle Traperia, 18, 9.00-21.00) - the first men's club, opened in 1847 and operating today. Construction of the club building was completed in 1901; this building is an excellent example of eclecticism, a combination of the incongruous: the facade is made in the Art Nouveau style, the lobby and the courtyard are an imitation of Arab architecture, the famous Granada Alhambra, and the club library was supposed to evoke associations with London clubs of the Victorian era.

Continuing along Calle Traperia, you will find yourself at the Plaza de Santo Domingo (Santo Domingo Square), where the Renaissance façade has been preserved churches of Santo Domingo(Iglesia de Santo Domingo), destroyed during anti-church riots and civil war 1930s There is an arch from the church to Almodóvar Palace(Palacio Almodovar, XVIII), the entrance to which is decorated with figures of Atlanteans.

Adjacent to Plaza de Santo Domingo is Plaza Romea, whose name is associated with the famous Spanish actor of the 19th century. Julio Romea and named after him TeatroRomea standing in the square.

New neighborhoods of Murcia:

If, after visiting the historical part of Murcia, you cross La Gran Via (JIa-Gran Via), you can take a walk through the gardens located in the new quarters (Jardin El Salitre, Jardin San Sebastian; Jardin de Malecon, which preserved Almudi Palace(Palacio Almudi, XVII) and visit several museums, including Museum of the History of Murcia(Museo de la Ciudad, Plaza de Agustinas, 5-7, Sept.-June Tue-Sat 10.00-14.00, 17.00-20.00, Sun 11.00-14.00, Mon closed, July-Aug. Mon-Fri 10.00-14.00, 17.00 -20.00, Sat, Sun closed Francisco Salcillo Museum, where religious sculpture is exhibited.

If you come by car, we recommend finishing the day with a tour Huerta Folklore Museum(Museo de Tradiciones de Huerta, Cora de Andalucia, Tue-Sun 10.30-18.00, Mon closed, 7 km west of Murcia), dedicated to the peasant life of Murcia and the surrounding areas.

Museums of Murcia

Archaeological Museum (Museo Arqueologico)

• Gran Via de Alfonso X El Sabio, 9.

Museum of Fine Arts (Museo de Bellas Artes)

• Calle Obispos Frutes, 2, Mon-Fri 9.00-14.00, 17.00-19.00, Sat 10.00-14.00, closed Sun.
• Plaza de San Agust in, 1-3 (Iglesia de Jesus), Tue-Sat 9.30-13.00, 16.00-19.00, Sun 11.00-13.00, Mon closed, July-Aug. Sat and Sun closed

Museum of matador artist Ramon Gaya (Museo Gaya)

• Plaza Santa Catalina,
• Tue-Sat 10.00-14.00, 17.00-20.00, Sun 11.00-14.00, closed Mon.

Museum of Ancient Mills and Hydraulics (Museo Gidraulicolic)

• Plaza de Camachos.

Major events in the history of Murcia

• 852. The Caliph of Cordoba, Abd ar Rahman II, founded the settlement of Medina Murcia on the site of a small Roman colony.
• 1266. Murcia was liberated from Moorish rule by Alfonso X.
• XVIII. Murcia is becoming an important center for textile production and agriculture.
• 1706. Archduke Charles's forces captured Murcia during the War of the Spanish Succession; In the fight against him, the Murcians opened a dam and flooded the Austrian camp.
• 1810s. After the invasion of Napoleonic troops, the plague and cholera epidemic, life in Murcia came to a standstill, many residents left the city.
• 1936. During the battles between the Francoists and the Republicans, many church buildings in Murcia were destroyed.

In the vicinity of Murcia:

• Torrevieja