Murcia: cathedral and squares
- Driving time
- About 55 minutes by car
- Area
- Región de Murcia
- Town
Murcia is a Spanish city with few beach tourists, known for its baroque cathedral and squares full of restaurants. It is about a 55 minute drive from Lago Rosa Apartment.
The historic centre is small and almost entirely flat, so you do everything on foot. Start at the cathedral on Plaza Cardenal Belluga, over 600 years of history on the site of the old Great Mosque. Climb the tower if you can, look at the facade and step inside to the Capilla de los Vélez. The heart of King Alfonso X is kept here in an urn near the high altar.
Close by you enter Calle Trapería, the old shopping street. That is where you find the Real Casino, a 19th century social club with a Neo-Nasrid courtyard and a ballroom. You can look round inside; check current times at turismodemurcia.es.
Further on is the Monasterio de Santa Clara, still a quiet monastery, with remains of an Islamic palace, a Gothic cloister and one of the oldest Islamic-era pools in Spain. Finish on Plaza de Santo Domingo or Plaza de las Flores with a long lunch.
Our tip: Plaza de Santo Domingo
The central square with many restaurants, ideal for a long lunch.
Our tip: Monteagudo castle
On a rock outside the centre, so one for when you have the car anyway.
Museo Salzillo
For anyone keen to see the procession sculptures by the 18th century sculptor Francisco Salzillo.
Murcia Tourist Card
Gives access to the cathedral and the Real Casino, among others. Ask at the tourist office on Plaza Cardenal Belluga about the current terms.
Frequently asked questions
Can you walk around the centre of Murcia?
Yes, the historic centre is small and nearly flat.
Can you visit the Real Casino in Murcia?
Yes, you can tour the building on Calle Trapería. Check current times at turismodemurcia.es.
What is special about Murcia cathedral?
The baroque facade, the tower and the Capilla de los Vélez, plus the heart of Alfonso X in an urn near the high altar.
