In may 1976, a great wave arrived in Orihuela, coming from many parts of the world this was the tribute to Miguel Hernández. An actual "cultural spring" bloomed in the plazas and streets of the city, particularly in Barrio San Isidro, reviving the life and the work of the poet. To that historic birthplace came painters, writers and musicians, set in the context of difficult times and uncertain transition, reclaiming the freedom that had been absent from their lives. It was an event that still remains recorded in collective memory, not only of the passionate Hernández devotees, but of everyone who defended democratic freedom. At that time of hope, doubt and anxiety, culture elevated the spirit of the people. More than thirty five years passed and to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the poet's death, on the 28th March, 2012, the Culture Department of Orihuela Ayuntamiento, in collaboration with many involved in the cultural life of Orihuela, undertook the task of restoring the murals in Barrio San Isidro; Once again covering the walls of the houses with murals with echoes of profound cultural and political significance. More than a hundred painters took part in this collaborative project, telling their stories on 43 walls, including some who were there in 1976 (Pepe Azorín, Nicasio Cañaveras and Joan Castejon), people from the Barrio San Isidro, primary and secondary teachers and their pupils, a group of disabled people; a true exercise in citizen participation. The project involved people working together with paintbrushes and rollers to essentially recreate the life and work of Miguel Hernández who died defending freedom and his belief in a just world. The result can be viewed on the streets of Camino Viejo de Oriolet, Chopo, Acacia, Tomillo, San Isidro Labrador, Sauce, Algarrobo and Almendro. Here you will find an open air gallery and museum, decorated with 53 murals of many colours and the green and ochre of the Sierra de Orihuela. You are invited to take this cultural and artistic journey through Barrio San Isidro, retracing the footsteps of the poet Miguel Hernández.

A festival marketplace with 13 bay-view restaurants, dozens of fun attractions and over 110 stores, many one-of-a kind. Bling Things (jewelry), Alpaca Fashion (sweaters), the Cable Car Store (collectibles), Field of Dreams (sports and celebrity gift store), Houdini Magic, and Puppets on the Pier. If you can’t find it here, you can’t find it anywhere.

It was built on a site of a Jesus college. It was a foundation, set up by clerics from Madrid's Royal Monastery (Monasterio de la Visitación), under the patronage of the princes Carlos María Isidro de Borbón and his wife, María de Asís de Braganza y Borbón. The monastery was built in neoclassical style, between 1826 and 1832. On the outside, the facade is made from black and red marble, featuring the shields of Spain and Portugal, Saint Charles Borromeo, Saint Jane of Chantal and Saint Francis of Assisi. Inside the church, built in the shape of a Latin cross, there is an interesting collection of religious paintings by the Court painter, Vicente López and his school (Valencia)

If you don't have the time to visit the larger (but much farther) Litchfield or Kakadu National Parks, Charles Darwin National Park is a convenient alternative. Located a short distance from the city centre, just south of the airport, the area is one of the country's most important wetlands. It showcases 36 mangrove species and holds significant Aboriginal and historical importance.