Murcia City
Historical capital Moorish city
History of Murcia City
Murcia was a Moor-founded city way back in 825 AD. During those times, the Moors (Arab) named it Mursiya. The Caliph of Cordoba, Aid ar-Rahman II, founded it on the site of a Roman colony.
Civil rivalry arose during the 11th century -- the native Spaniards joined forces to oust the Caliphate for the building of a sovereign kingdom, including the modern provinces of Alicante and Almeria. King Alfonso X of Castilla & Leon re-conquered Murcia and its surroundings on 1243. Changes were imposed. First on the list was the conversion of all 20 resident mosques into churches. Under this new regime, the city of Murcia flourished. At the threshold of the 18th century, Murcia was one of Spain's architectural charms. Intricate urban palaces, churches, & glorious baroque cathedral were put to life, funded by the silk and agricultural industry. Town History
Sadly, Murcia s popularity was short-lived. In 1810, the successive raiding of Napoleonic troops and the spread of epidemics (cholera and other plagues) led to the gradual fall of Murcia.
In 1936, Murcia was a heavy fighting zone during the Spanish civil war. Many of its churches and monuments were burnt to the ground. Economic decline was at hand, and even their reputable silk trade industry lost its competitive edge on the open market due to the introduction of man-made fibres.
Places of interest
Cathedral of Murcia
This is definitely one great landmark to see whenever in Murcia , and it has become the city's symbol because of its amazing tower that can be seen even you're miles away. This Cathedral situated at the Plaza del Cardinal Belluga possess several access doors, each of them having a distinct majestic character. The Puerta del Perdon (main entrance), Portada de las Cadenas (north door), and Portada de los Apostoles will lead the way into the remarkable capilla (chapel) which is embellished with lots of gold. There is also a Diocesan museum inside the Cathedral wherein many ornaments and artifacts are on exhibit. For amazing views of the cityscape, go up the 92 meter tower which was started in the year 1519 but not finished until the 18th century.
As you wander through the city, there is a monumental building on every corner. Many are in pristine condition and those that aren't are being restored to their former glory. One building worthy of a mention is the casino Here in the 19th century, worthy citizens would sit to be admired like fish in a goldfish bowl. The palatial interior is quite amazing.
Bishop's Palace
The Bishop's Palace placed in close proximity to the Cathedral . It was constructed in 1748, and it has two fantastic facades to witness. Furthermore, its innermost patio, focal stairway, Bishop's Balcony , known as "El Martillo," and the Palace chapel should also be seen.
Glorieta de España
The Glorieta is positioned not far from the Cathedral and near the River Segura which runs through the city. It is a pleasant place to unwind in after shopping or visiting the attractions in Murcia . From this spot, there are also lots of other attractions to visit.
The Convent Church of Santa Ana is an 18th century place of worship and is the third church that was built on this location, the first church built in 1490. To maximize your visit, it is a must to try the freshly baked pastries, baked by the nuns, the Sisters of the Enclosed Order. They serve the goods through a gyratory hatch.
The Church of San Miguel stands on the site of an earlier church. The 18th century church has wonderful coloured altar pieces.
The Almudi Art Palace was constructed in 1602 and was previously the storage space for the community's corn harvest, collected as tithes. It was put back into better working condition in 1985, and it now houses the art centre and city archives.
The river Segura flows through the city, where it is unfortunately polluted by uncaring manufacturers and other businesses.
Murcia now
is a thriving university city with many foreign students.
The centre contains a good variety of shops, (many international) restaurants, banks etc.
Murcia has everything to offer the visitor and you can almost certainly guarantee that no matter what time of year you visit, you will be wrapped up in some kind of fiesta or celebration.
Typical cooking includes stews, salads, roasted meat, rice and of course great sea-food along the coast. Murcia also produces wine of high quality.