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Europe Spain Murcia Do & See Caravaca De La Cruz

Overview

Caravaca De La Cruz

The guide was updated: 2023-02-08

Northwest of Murcia is the small and historic town Caravaca de la Cruz. In the 16th and 17th century, Caravaca was the political centre of a vast territory that was governed by the Order of the Temple and Order of Santiago, and the splendid castle and the renaissance Salvador church are now the town's main attractions.

Useful Information

Address: Caravaca de la Cruz, Murcia

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Salzillo Museum

Salzillo Museum

Sculptor Francisco Salzillo lived in Murcia in the 18th century, and christianity heavily inspired his original and colourful work. The Muzeo Salzillo displays close to 500 of his works of art, and each Easter, his art is used in the traditional parade through the city.

Cardinal Belluga Square

Cardinal Belluga Square

This square is flanked by two of the city’s most interesting buildings, as opposite the impressive cathedral of Murcia is the Palacio Episcopal from the 18th century. Constructions on the Episcopal started in the 14th century, and today, its impressive tower reaches over 300 feet high.

Ricote Valley

Ricote Valley

This relatively unknown valley is home to several charming small towns including Ricote, Ojós and Abáran. The landscape is dotted with leafy fruit farms, and the surrounding hills are popular for hiking and mountain biking.

Caravaca De La Cruz

Caravaca De La Cruz

Northwest of Murcia is the small and historic town Caravaca de la Cruz. In the 16th and 17th century, Caravaca was the political centre of a vast territory that was governed by the Order of the Temple and Order of Santiago, and the splendid castle and the renaissance Salvador church are now the town's main attractions.

Mar Menor

Mar Menor

One of the coast’s natural attractions is Mar Menor, the largest saltwater lake in Europe. As Mar Menor means 'minor sea', the Mediterranean Sea itself is, consequently, called 'major sea'. Close to the lake are the old fishing village of Cabo de Palos, and the unexploited beaches of the Calblanque National Park.

Calblanque Park

Calblanque Park

The regional park Calblanque is a beautiful nature reserve with amazing sandy beaches, cliffs, and mountains. There is a small visitor centre where you can get more information about both flora and fauna, and routes for the hiking trails. Be aware, there are no facilities like cafés and restaurants here as this is a protected area.

Cathedral of Saint Mary

Cathedral of Saint Mary

The Cathedral of Saint Mary was built in 1394 and it is Murcia's most important monument. It has outstanding details, both inside and outside, with elements of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. The bell tower is 90 meters tall and it has 24 bells, each individually named.

Royal Casino of Murcia

Royal Casino of Murcia

Royal Casino of Murcia is located in the city centre just a short distance from the Cathedral and it can be described as a social club for the elite; however, this exclusive environment is open for the public during specific hours as well. The casino is a very unique building with beautiful decoration, a modern Arab room, a beautiful art nouveau library, a nice ball room and a glass gallery.

Museum of the Roman Theater

Museum of the Roman Theater

The Roman amphitheatre of Cartagena in Murcia, which was built between 5 and 1 BC, is wonderfully preserved, and the museum close by offers excellent exhibits that display interesting historical artefacts.

National Museum of Underwater Archaeology

National Museum of Underwater Archaeology

A huge collection of underwater artefacts and old sailing and trade ships feature in this museum devoted to naval construction, navigation and ports of the Mediterranean. The museum is located in an impressive modern building and in the inside, you will find a café-restaurant that offers magnificent views over the bay of Cartagena.

Castle of Lorca

Castle of Lorca

For an excursion, head over to the amazing castle of Lorca. To get up to the castle, take the small road train that directly leaves at the visitor centre called Lorca centre. You will meet costumed performers who will re-enact everyday life in the castle.

River Rafting

River Rafting

Try your hand at adventure sports like river rafting or kayaking! You do not need any experience, as the trained guides and the great stability of the boats will allow you an easy start – just enjoy the beautiful scenery and the adrenaline. Family activities are also available.

Cave of the Port

Cave of the Port

The cave of the port, Cueva del Puerto, is one of the largest caves in eastern Spain, located in the beautiful Sierra del Puerto Mountains. Explore beautiful underground rooms such as the Zona del Laberinto, Gran Diaclasa, Gran Bloque and Sala de los Claustros. The amazing and colourful stalagmites and flow stones stand out, and will no doubt fascinate.

The Spanish Civil War Museum

The Spanish Civil War Museum

Learn more about the Spanish Civil War and take an emotional trip to this interesting and informative museum. Here you can experience real life bunker completed by air raid sound effects. It also provides many exhibits, oral histories, films and photos.

Mining Theme Park of La Unión

Mining Theme Park of La Unión

El Parque Minero de La Unión, the local mining park, opened in the summer of 2010 and it is a unique tourist attraction where you can learn about the city's mining history. Keep in mind that it is necessary to book your visit in advance. They also provide English speaking tour guides.

The Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Fuensanta

The Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Fuensanta

The Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Fuensanta is a beautiful monastery located among the hills in Murcia. The walk up is lovely and once you reach your destination, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view over the city.

Julian Romea Square

Julian Romea Square

The popular Plaza de Flores is often crowded but Plaza Julian Romea is an excellent option. There are many great restaurants, tapas bars and bars just to go out for a drink and people watch.

The Carrascoy Valley Regional Park

The Carrascoy Valley Regional Park

This is a great park for a morning hike, followed by a cosy lunch either at a restaurant or with your own picnic. The nature is simply beautiful.

Santa Clara Monastery & Museum

Santa Clara Monastery & Museum

The Santa Clara Monastery & Museum has a long and interesting history, from being an Arab palace to becoming a monastery. The museum holds an exhibition of archaeological remains and religious art.

Muvit ciclogaraje

Muvit ciclogaraje

Ride or cruise around Murcia. Whether you like speed and adrenaline kicks or if you just want to experience the town from a different angle, you should visit Muvit ciclogaraje to explore the town from a new perspective.

Museo de Bellas Artes de Murcia

Museo de Bellas Artes de Murcia

This intimate museum exhibits works which span centuries of Murcian art and culture. The carefully curated collection is free to visit and prides itself on its mix of both locally and internationally renowned art.

Castillo De La Asomada

At the summit of this mountain lie crumbling ruins - they're all that's left of a 12th century Arab castle fabled to have been built by the infamous "Wolf King". Explore one of several walking trails through Aleppo pine forests to the top of the mountain. While the castle is lacking in architectural features, hikers enjoy the watchtower, which offers panoramic views over the Segura Valley.

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