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USEFUL INFORMATION FOR VILLA VISITORS Things to do around Los Alcázares Things to see around Los Alcázares Festivities and Traditions of the region
The Christian resettlement period gave Los Alcázares importance as a fishing port and harbour, due to its strategic location. However, it was in the early part of this century when the farmers from the orchards of Murcia began to visit Los Alcázares to take the famous Novenarios "nine baths" to recharge their bodies. This has been maintained ever since, although the spa and the general area has been modernised and offers more select surroundings now.
Things to do around Los Alcázares * One-day trips can be taken to other towns. There is a good road network from Los Alcázares to places such as Murcia, Cartagena, Mazarron, Alicante and La Manga. *
Participate
in feasts and fiestas organised in Los
Alcázares
all year round. Things to see around Los Alcázares. Torre del Rame or Rami is an Arab fortress which was a lookout post on the Mar Menor coast during the Castilian resettlement period. It was designed to keep the pirates out, when they made incursions from the Mediterranean coast. Except for the battlements, the fortress has not been renovated, maintaining the thickness of the walls and its height (9 meters). Hotel. Balneario La Encarnacion. This hotel , built in 1904, is located on the shores of the Mar Menor and has remained as an example of architecture of the period. The hotel. accommodates the famous spa baths which have renowned curative properties.
The Monolith of Municipal Independence, located in the Paseo de Carrion, marks the exact spot where the municipalities of San Javier and Torre Pacheco met, and to which Los Alcázares belonged before segregating. It was built in 1993 in order to celebrate the anniversary of Los Alcázares municipal autonomy. The Municipal Aeronautic Museum is situated in the Avenida Libertad, next to the airbase. Here the visitor can see all the documentation, photographs and material on the airbase of Los Alcázares since its creation as an airbase in 1915 till present day. Festivities in Los Alcázares There are several festivals held in the area celebrating the diversity of its people and inviting the visitors to participate in the festivities: A Carnival, which is held jointly with the municipalities of San Javier and San Pedro del Piñatar, and is called the Carnival of the Mar Menor Mock Berber incursions in the Mar Menor, bring an end to the Easter festivities in Los Alcázares, the visitor has the chance to travel back in time, by enjoying a medieval market, participating in a pirates attack and talking to recreated picturesque characters from history. The Celebrations of Las Lomas del Rame are held in honour of the Virgin of Carmen. These take place during the second half of July. On the Day of the Virgin, the 15th August, a land-sea procession is held in honour of our Lady Asuncian, the Patron Saint of Los Alcázares, thousands of believers congregate to pay homage. An International Week of the Huerta and the Mar Menor, is a celebration of the local folklore, customs, culture and gastronomy and is held as a sign of peace and harmony. It is acknowledged as a Regional tourist attraction and is celebrated annually in the second half of August. The Festival of Independence - several cultural and sports activities coincide with the anniversary of the municipality’s autonomy on the 13th August. .The most popular feast is called the Day of Caldero on the 12th August. The feast attracts many groups of enthusiasts who gather on the beach in order to prepare to taste the delicious Caldero, "fish stock and rice" a typical dish from the Mar Menor. A Patronal feast of Los Narejos, in honour of la Purisma, It is held during the first week of December.
Due to the fact that it is really a dammed up sea, of limited depth and very salty waters, the lagoon has always been home to a very unusual fauna, which proves especially delicious on the dinner table. This situation also led to a unique form of fishing and along the route are the nets hung vertically and the rectangular cork floats which dot the smooth surface of the water.
An analysis of its waters shows that the ionic concentration of magnesium, calcium, sodium, bromine, iodine, and fluoride, are greater than in the Mediterranean sea. Therapeutic water treatment with this type of salty water and the application of mud-baths apparently eliminate toxic particles, boost blood circulation and muscle relaxation, and is highly recommended for stress, rheumatic pains, sciatic, lumbago, and other conditions related to skin and joints. The Seven kilometres of coastline is divided into the following beaches from north to south, some have the blue flag awarded by EU. Las Salinas beach, Los Narejos beach, Las Palmeras beach, Espejo beach, Manzanares beach, Carrion beach and La Concha beach Apart from being the biggest open air health spa in the world, Mar Menor is also considered as one of the best areas for regatta and certain water sports which can be practiced all year round. All these beaches are connected by means of a magnificent palm tree lined promenade and are bordered by the usual facilities, WCs, tapas bars and cafes. The beaches of the Mar Menor are fully equipped with showers, thatched sun-shades and loungers for hire, fountains, ramps and paths for the handicapped, and also cater for games and sports. *
Practice almost
any type of water sport in the Mar
Menor
as all year round it is considered one of the best regions for
all water activities. * Follow the routes of the greenhouses, to el Cabezo Garbo, Salinas de San Pedro, Calblanque and la Sierra Minera along the Mar Menor coast. * Spend a day on the Isle of Perdiguera, situated in the Mar Menor, and have a swim in crystalline waters. * Just lie on the beach and enjoy the sun, try a delicious icecream (helado) a beer (cereveza) tapas or paella from one of the kiosks * Have fun looking at the myriads of tiny fish in the lagoon and love the clean, clear, warm water. * If you are brave, play boulles with the locals! Practise your Spanish.Costa Calida, which means warm coast, is an area in the south east of the Iberian Peninsula, situated between the Costa Blanca and the Costa Almeria. From North to South a trip through the Costa Cálida cuts across highly varied landscapes bordered partially by the Mar Menor coastline and also the Mediterranean Sea. In the north, San Pedro Del Pinatar is devoted to fishing and a Sea Museum displays many relevant artefacts from throughout the ages. The first fish salting plant was created by the Phoenicians and Romans here. The salt flats that are the habitat of Flamingos and water fowl which feed on the shrimps, are the main feature, together with a nature reserve/trail devoted to the flora and fauna of the region.
The last part of the journey unfolds amidst mountains and gullies and over a tapestry of esparto bushes and fragrant plants growing on virgin land. Here wild palmetto and oleander are given the special name of baladres. Large areas of largely unexplored beach and cliff area, with blue skies and seas and only the sound of the cicadas, spread out between each of the popular summer towns. The Region of Murcia, in spite of all the tourists who visit, is one of the least commercialised in Southern Spain. In the off- season it is fairly tranquil and even in peak season is nothing like the big resorts further along the coast. No kiss me quick hats, larger louts and loud bars here! Old towns, small villages, monuments, art, churches, rocky wastes and coastlines are still to be visited, enjoyed and explored. There have been quite a few developments and new builds, but just beyond these the land is still largely farmed and dotted with disused wind mills and farm buildings. Hopefully no urban sprawl will ever get this far. It is also an area rich in history and diverse in character. The occasional ruined watchtower is a reminder of the danger of pirates who sailed to these shores many years ago to fill up their ships with booty. The squawking of the seagulls and the humming of the cicadas are often the only sounds to disturb the tranquil atmosphere just out of the towns and urbanisations. Such a contrast exists between the old sea-faring towns, the monuments and the agricultural communities, that there appears more of a distance between one zone and another than actually exists, but in fact Murcia is a small region to get to know. There are very different areas within just a short trip of 100 km. The mines, the fertile lands, the mountains, and the coast-line, witness a Spanish history which has been filled with such unusual events as are normally read about in legends. Murcia's contemporary history is very similar to that of the rest of Spain. The extraordinary boom of the mining industry and the episode of the 'Cartagena Cantón' are probably the most important events. In fact the last historical incident was made up of so many skirmishes that it could provide a whole book of anecdotes. It can be said that a history of those events is like a brief summary of the history of the 19th Century in Spain. History of the region. All of the historical events of the Old World had something to do with these lands from the legendary times of Tartessos (the powerful state which dominated the southern part of the peninsula) to the fall of Rome. The mines were highly valued and their prosperity provided wealth which helped maintain a peaceful existence for this area. The end of the centuries marked by the presence of the Greeks, Carthaginians and Romans left an outstanding archaeological and cultural heritage, the remains of which can still be appreciated in the local museums. When the Moors came to Spain, Murcia remained as a Christian stronghold in lands which were already Andalusian, under the rule of an aristocrat, Todomir, who knew how to negotiate with the invaders. Soon after, however, Murcia became part of Moslem Spain and it eventually held a rather privileged position among the southern provinces. In the 13th century, the re-conquest reached this territory, converting the Murcia region and territory of Todomir into a border land under military rule. The castles which dominate the inland valleys are proof of the strategic importance of this territory which, while it closed the circle around the kingdom of Granada, became at the same time a densely populated region. The presence of the Moslems must have been an important factor in the Christian era as well, culturally and also economically. Mudejars (the Moors who remained in Spain after the re-conquest) and Moriscos (Moors who were baptized) continued working the lands which belonged to the nobility in Murcia, Cartagena, Lorca, Caravaca, Jumilla and other cities. They also began to build fine palaces, large and wealthy convents and monumental churches. The highly cultured ways of the renaissance were brought to these shores by the artists contracted by certain of these noblemen. This brought change, as it seems that they were more concerned with development than the historic epic works of their ancestors. In time Murcia became one of the capitals of Baroque art which is magnificently represented in the entire region and personified by the exceptional work of Salzillo, an artist of Italian origin. A great deal of the work still remains from that time and can frequently be found in the churches, museums and in the oldest streets of each city. Arts and Crafts of the region. Clay, straw, wood and wrought iron are the basic materials used in Murcia's popular craft work, but silk and embroidery with gold and silver threads used to cover processional images make up the more cultured and refined aspect of the traditional craft work of this region. The local potters continue to produce important amounts of decorative pottery in Totana and Lorca, as well as in Mula and Aledo. Earthenware bowls, mortars, glazed and painted jugs (following medieval traditions), huge vats and pitchers are the most characteristic articles made in this territory. The tradition of making little figures for the Belén (Nativity Scene) goes all the way back to the times of the great religious image-maker Salzillo who was commissioned to make one. The line of continuity, perfectly faithful to those Baroque models, has survived until today inherited from the eighteenth century image-making industry. Basket-weaving is another important facet of popular craft work. The Campus Spartarius has always produced a good deal of the hemp and esparto used throughout the Peninsula. Unfortunatel y, the recession in recent years due to the proliferation of synthetic fibres has left its influence on the basket-weaving production which has suffered a serious setback. The fact that the harvesting (which must be done by hand without using a scythe) involves high labour costs is another factor in its decline. Nevertheless, it is still possible to find good straw work in the form of doormats, matting and baskets of all types used for fieldwork. In the Museo de la Huerta (Country Museum) of Alcantarilla are some important pottery and basket pieces which no longer exist nowadays such as the capacho (basket) with an openwork weave, using the same process as the one used for making silk. Murcia has three Craft Centres which are in Murcia, Lorca and Cartagena where examples of all the types of craft work from the region are exhibited. The pieces which are for sale have the same price as in the craft work-shops. There are blankets still made in the textile production areas around Lorca, decorated with fringes and strips of other materials, recreating centuries-old designs on their looms. Gastronomy of the region. In Murcian cookery the very special consistency which the delicious fish and rice dishes take on and the refreshing presence of salads, vegetables and fruits are for their own sake ample reason for eating local dishes. The caldero (fish and rice dish) of the Mar Menor originated as a fishermen's rice dish cooked in large iron pots and its main characteristic is the oily consistency furnished by the fish which has been cooked in its own juices. The mujol dorada (grouper), mero (mullet), salmonete (red mullet), and the crawfish take on a very special flavour when fished from these local waters. A very simple dish - dorada a la sal (dorado) - is prepared by wrapping fish in a covering of salt which hardens in the oven to conserve the flavour of the white and juicy fish intact. When choosing fish dishes, be guided by whatever is the Especialidad del día (Speciality of the day) for the fishermen's catch will always be fresh and excellent. Local farm products are used in the preparation of many dishes from the very simple Murcia salad to the different stews and rice dishes including revoltillo huertano (scrambled eggs), zarangollo and muchirones (broad beans cooked in a spicy sauce). Murcia cake is filled with meat and made from puff pastry dough. Cierva cake is sometimes filled with Moratalla marzipan or fruit Fish dishes, Salazones (salted meat and fish), eggs and mojama (salted tuna), prawns or oysters from the Mar Menor and are some of the more outstanding dishes. Try also the La Mancha style Gaspacheo. For those who prefer meat there is a great deal of small game, as well as roast goat and lamb. The fruit - which is especially delicious when freshly picked –is abundant. Oranges, mandarins, lemons and tomatoes grow to a wonderful size and juiciness not found in imports. Try also the olives from Cieza, aromatic and slightly bitter. The wines of Jumilla, Yecla, Bullos, Aledo and Campo de Cartagena are recommended for those who like strong, dry and fruity wines. The prices are also exceedingly attractive and affordable. Festivities and Traditions of the region Without a doubt the key dates for visiting Murcia and getting to know its folklore are during Holy Week and its spring festivities. The splendour of the pasos (religious floats) carried through the streets during the procession and the profound respect for the traditions on the part of the brotherhoods convert this religious celebration into a magnificent spectacle which attracts visitors from all over the world. Nevertheless, throughout the year there are other attractive festivities, the Auto of the Magi in Aledo, the fiestas of La Vera Cruz in Caravaca or the Festival de Cante de las Minas (Song) in La Unión. During the summer months, there are many more popular fiestas held all along the coast. On the 6th and 7th of January, Aledo holds the above-mentioned Auto of the Magi, with the parades of cuadrillas de ánimas, accompanied by large guitars, bells, clarinets and other musical instruments. The Auto, interpreted by the residents of the town, follows a libretto which was written in 1732 between Cartagena, Murcia, Lorca and Jumilla (declared of National Tourist Interest). Each of these four communities have very beautiful images including the famous carvings by Salzillo to offer and they all respect the fundamental tradition of the cofradías or brotherhoods. The processions in Lorca are the ones which most closely follow the model of a Baroque fiesta. A special religious passion and a liking for allegories and biblical plays characterize the festivities in Lorca and are representative of the 17th and 18th century religious and pagan celebrations. Nabuchadnezzar, Cleopatra, Asuero and other characters take part in the 'Triumph of Christianity' and could serve as a source of inspiration for any of the impressive scenes chosen for the religious paintings of the day. However, the rituals followed in Cartagena and Murcia also come from a period when the Catholic religion took on pompous tones. The tunics of the californios and the marrajos in Cartagena and those of the Murcian cofradías or brotherhoods follow in close detail those of ancients, as do the splendid yet unusual dress of the nazarenos in Murcia, which involve fine petticoats and stockings which peek out from under their tunics which are gathered at the waist. In Aledo, the 'Agony of Jesus' is presented in the parish church, just one of the many religious commemorations in Spain which are expressed in a theatrical manner. In Jumilla, special mention should be made of the Via Crucis on Easter Tuesday and the Palm Sunday procession, in which a figure of Christ tied a the column by the artist Salzillo is carried through the streets. And finally, Mula and Moratalla celebrate Easter Wednesday, Maundy Thursday and Easter Sunday with a great beating of drums, whose origins can be found some time back in the 17th century. Easter Sunday takes on a special significance in Murcia, the Spring Fiestas to welcome back the good weather at the end of winter are held with the satirical and brilliant spectacle of the 'Bando de la Huerta', represented by perraneos (Justice of the Peace). There is a special dialect spoken in La Huerta, which took on some literary importance in the past century, but now its popularity seems to be limited to the celebration of some country fiestas which have a very strict Murcian origin. These bandos or proclamations are invariably a social or political satire centered around the most relevant current events. The 'Burial of the Sardine' has gained immense popularity. It cannot be described; it must be witnessed on the first Saturday after Easter. During the first week of May, Caravaca holds its fiestas in honour of 'La Santísima y Vera Cruz'. The festivities commemorate a particularly daring and courageous event which took place when Caravaca was occupied by the Moorish king, according to tradition, in the year 1231. This same historical event has led to the celebration of parades and street skirmishes between Moors and Christians and the horse race which is known as the Caballos del Vino (Wine horses). It seems that in the midst of a siege, a group of Knights Templar dared to penetrate the Moslem lines on fast horses in order to get water for the besieged. As they could not reach any water wells, they returned in the same manner, on their horses, laden with wine skins. During the modern day race, each horse is accompanied and spurred on by four boys. The romería or pilgrimage of Santa Ana is also held in the month of May in Jumilla (on the 14th) and the Fiestas of San Isidro (on the 15th) in Mula, where a popular proclamation is read. On June 29th, San Pedro del Pinatar holds a fiesta in honour of its patron saint with an ancient fair, where regional dances and all of the other typical events of a fair of this kind take place. On July 16th, the seafaring pilgrimage of the Virgen del Carmen leaves the beaches of Lo Pagán (in San Pedro del Pinatár), los Alcázares, la Ribera, los Nietos and Cartagena returning to the parish churches of their respective towns, after an excursion through the Mar Menor. August marks the celebration of the Festival de Cante de las Minas (Mine Song Festival) in La Unión, held during the first week of the month, The Fiesta of the Virgen de Aguilas (during the first fortnight), and the Vendimia (Grape Harvest) Fiesta in Jumilla, on the 15th of the month. During the first two weeks of September, the Romería of La Fuensanta (pilgrimage), the International Folklore Festival and the Fiestas of Moors and Christians are held in Murcia. These festivities include a variety of activities. La Unión holds its festivities in October (from the 6th to the 12th). At Christmas time a huge Belén or Nativity Scene is installed in a main square in Murcia, and the fiestas in Aledo include special regional dancing on Christmas Eve. The City of Murcia, Capital of the region is a confused panorama which is often characteristic of all cities at first glance. This small historic community is made up equally of charming intimate corners and monumental buildings, which are at times preceded by small squares and at other times built in narrow streets. These streets are ill-adapted to the fast-paced, noisy life of the capital. Sometimes the perspectives of modern Murcia break into the warm atmosphere of the old city, with its Mediterranean character. Renaissance and Baroque religious art are evident on the bank of the Segura River which flows between two strips of dense reeds and is one of the most classic images of the city as it passes by the Cathedral. It is also one of the best ways to approach Murcia. The Puente Viejo (Old Bridge) and the La Glorieta are the best look-out points over the Gran Vía, an important thoroughfare through the historic centre of the city. La Glorieta itself is a brief landscaped area behind which the city centre unfolds. The Episcopal Palace and the Town Hall close off part of the square which stands beside the river. A few steps away is the Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, presided over by the main façade of the Cathedral. The Cathedral is a great Baroque composition of complexity, carried out during the first half of the 18th century by Jaime Bort an outstanding artist. The Façade was conceived as a perfect example of the elements of classicist architecture. The profusion of sculptural details endows it with a certain resemblance to altar-pieces. The magnificent set of columns and cornices which line the central body form a gigantic niche. To the left of the Cathedral is the tower - the Doorway of the Apostles, constructed in the middle of the 15th century. It is the only Gothic element to be found on the Cathedral's exterior. Beside the Doorway is the Chapel of Los Junterones, which is one of the most interesting in the temple. To one side of the building is the Chapel of Los Vélez. The enormous carved chain which borders it and the Fajardo coat of arms are the most outstanding exterior features. In the same direction are La Torre (the tower) and the Doorway of Las Cadenas (Chains), two splendid examples of Renaissance art. The Bell tower was designed and constructed by two Italians, Francisco Florentino and also Jacobo Florentino (who was known as 'El Indaco' and not a relative). Its design and decoration have made it the most valuable piece of Spanish art of its time, strongly influenced by the Italian schools. A fine view can be seen from the top of the tower. Entrance to the temple is usually through the Puerta de las Cadenas, located at one end of the transept. The interior of Murcia Cathedral is more in accord with the Gothic concepts of Catalonia and Valencia than with orthodox medieval art. Both its proportions, which are slimmer than the Castilian models and the purity of its construction and mouldings, give the Church a Mediterranean look. It was built in the first half of the 15th Century upon the ruins of what was the main mosque of the city. The mosque was converted into a Christian temple upon Jaime 1st’s conquest of the region and it remained almost intact until its destruction in 1320. The present temple was built in 1934. The Main Chapel, seen from the transept, gives the best idea of what this church was like before its most influential parishioners began to embellish it by adding over-ornate chapels. Directly behind the presbytery in the centre of the apse aisle is the Chapel de los Vélez, a splendid example of florid Gothic from the first years of the 16th century. No description can do justice to its profuse decoration! Two small canvases by Lucas Jordán the Capilla de los Vélez are amongst the best examples of Isabelline Gothic art, a truly Hispanic style, soon destined to succumb to the Renaissance influences from Italy. A typical Renaissance work designed by Jacobo Florentino in the Sacristyis is included in the lower body of the bell tower. The Corpus Christi Chapel (beside that of Los Vélez) was the last work of the Baroque artist Salzillo, who died before he could complete it. This sculptor, born of a Napolitan family, had become intimately involved in the Murcian culture as he wandered through the streets of the city. The Choir, which is also classified within Isabelline Gothic and the Baroque Chapel of Los Junterones (visible from the outside, beside the Doorway of the Apostles) deserve a visit. The Museum contains some highly valuable pieces of sacred art and is installed in the Chapter House and part of the old Cloister. The Puerta de las Cadenasout leads to the Calle de la Trapería, the main thoroughfare of medieval and renaissance Murcia. Many small streets from all over the sector converge onto the Calle de la Trapería, which is lined with the many customary business and leisure activities of a calle mayor (main street). The Casino celebrates architecture from the beginning of the century. An Arab and a neoclassic patio together with a splendid ballroom, reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles, are the most beautiful reminders of bygone times of luxury and sophistication. To the left, the façade of the Almodóvar Palace is at the end of the Calle de la Trapería. At the Plaza de Santo Domingo, a temple of the same name stands. The Romea Theatre (of the past century) and the Church of San Bartolom (with a 'Madonna' by Salzillo), the Palace of Riquelme and several other noble structures make up this charming sector, across which the Gran Via cuts. The University and the Church of La Merced (very close to the Plaza de Santo Domingo) also deserve a visit. The University has a Renaissance patio and the Church a fine decorative collection which includes many images by Salzillo and some fine Baroque paintings. There are too many places of interest to detail, however the distances between them are short and so they can all be visited with relative ease. Of special interest is the Church of El Carmen. On the other side of the river are the churches of San Lorenzo, San Juan de Dios, San Juan Bautista, San Miguel (with a reredos by Salzillo) and Santa Catalina, which contain excellent religious images. The convents of Santa Clara and Santa Ana also have their own magnificent temples. Other possibilities are Salzillo Museum (in Calle de San Andrés) the Provincial Archaeological Museum, the Fine Arts Museum and the Crafts Centre. The outskirts of Murcia. Murcia has always been said to have a very close bond with the irrigated farmland, (the huerta). This has affected the character of its people, the city's art, its Easter festivities and the culture of the community in general. A maze of local roads connects one small farming community with another. At Museo de La Huerta (Farmland Museum) in Alcantarilla is an enormous water-wheel. It transfers water from one large canal to another higher one, a fine engineering feat which is characteristic of the people of the Huerta. The Medieval system of canals which begins at the Segura River and extends throughout the plain lands makes sure that water reaches even the most distant plot of land. The barraca (thatched -roof cottages), the pieces of traditional ceramic, the looms and, in general, all of the contents of this Museum define the Huerta. La Ñora has a similar water wheel and fields of fruit trees and vegetable gardens, which are at times surrounded by beds of roses and dahlias. Fig trees, palm trees and reeds grow along the setting where the light and fertility of the soil play a major role. Near La Ñora, in the direction of Espinardo is the Monastery of Los Jerónimos, a huge building of sober Baroque lines. Monteagudo has its Castillejo; one of the few constructions remaining from the Almoravid period which still remains standing today. The fortress stands on a hill with a broad view of the surrounding country-side. The Shrine of La Fuensanta is about 5 km. from Murcia in the direction of Alcázares. In addition to being a point of reference for the traditional Murcian culture, the Shrine sits on a privileged spot overlooking the greater part of the Huerta. The Sanctuary was constructed at the end of the 17th century and has a fine façade, crowned with two Baroque towers. The Patron Saint of Murcia - the Vigen de la Fuensanta - was installed here, an image which replaced the ancient, medieval devotion to La Arrixaca. The Fuensanta statue was carved in the 16th century and is decorated with a valuable collection of jewels and silk robes embroidered with gold and silver. Cartagena historic city and home of the Spanish Navy, The region's port.
The view from the dock gives a very clear picture of old Cartagena. The port, its fortifications and the monument to the heroes of Cuba and Cavite are highly representative of the city and its past history. The special significance of the little submarine on the esplanade is that it was the first vessel of its kind. Launched in the year 1888 and designed by Cartagena born Isaac Peral, it was powered by two 30 hp electrical engines. Just a short distance away is the enormous Arsenal building with its Classicist façade, the old Castillo de la Conception (Castle) and the old Cathedral. The sea ramparts which flank the esplanade of the dock are part of the Castle of La Conception, of Roman origin, which was reconstructed between the 14th and 18th centuries. The upper section of the esplanade is a pleasant avenue which affords some excellent views .The Town Hall recognizes the Calle Mayor and the Calle de los Cuatro Santos (which is called Calle del Duque later on) as the two most important thoroughfares of the old part of town. The Calle Mayor is the gathering place for all the residents of the city and the out-of-town visitors. The Calle de los Cuatro Santos, parallel to Mayor, runs past the Cathedral on the right. The Cathedral is said to stand on the spot where the oldest Basilica in Spain once stood and remains of the Romans, Carthaginians and medieval inhabitants were found in the structure. A little farther on are the small 18th century images of the four Cartagena saints; Isidoro, Fulgencio, Leandro and Florentina. They were three brothers and one sister who were born during the Visigothic period, on a spot very close to the Castle of La Concepción and where the Visilla Gateway now stands. A fine Gothic image of the Virgen del Rosell, Patron Saint of the City, is kept in the Church of Santa María de Gracia, along with Salzillo's carvings of the four saints. There are too many places of interest to mention them all, but the Archaeological Museum, with its outstanding Roman collection and also the National Museum of Submarine Archaeology, with its valuable collection of amphorae are considered very important and well worth a visit. Lovers of ancient history should not miss the Torre Ciega (Blind Tower) which is an old Roman burial ground, dating from the first century. Several local roads go to the three fortifications which guarded and protected Cartagena's port. The Castles of La Atalaya and Las Galeras are to the West, and the Castle of San Julián, to the East. Sierra Espuna, the National Park of the region covers 17.804 hectares of Espuna Mountain and 1,875 of Los Barrancos de Gebas. It is designated an Official Regional Park and Protected Landscape. This is a mountainous region with a more temperate climate than the surrounding area leaving snow on the highest peaks occasionally in winter. It consists jointly of the regional park of Espuna Mountain, together with the protected landscapes of Gebas Precipices and the reservoir of Algeciras Rambla. It lies West of and between Aledo and Pliego. Its history goes back about 40,000 years BC, with Paleolithic signs of human presence being found in the Anton Cave near the Ciervo dam. In the mountains discoveries are still being made of remains from 20,00years ago near Algarrobo Rambla. In the bronze-age the fortified hills were dotted with small villages, remains of which may be seen at the Bastida site near Totana. At the El Cabezo de la Fuente del Murtel Iron Age transition workings are apparent near Alhama. In Mula Hondo de Cajitan, finds of ceramics and metal pins mark past habitation from the Neolithic Age 5,000 BC. In the Mount of Yechar pictorial representations were found on walls Cerro Cortado and El Milano. 500 tombs in Mula were exhumed dating from the 4th to 2 nd centuries BC and finds are displayed in the National Archaelogical Museum with replicas in the Museum of history at Alhama. In the Roman period the region was mainly concerned with farming to produce cereals and oil. In Mula is a huge press, wells and mosaic spa-baths, with a thermal water complex supplied by a dam. Later in Hispano-musulman times, castles were constructed around the Sierra Espuna as a defence and for military and political refuge. The fortifications of Aledo and Alhama castles were of great importance. Pliego became a fortified town, watching the strategic way along the Segura River and the fields of Lorca. In more modern times the area has become urban around Espuna with the building of fairly large towns and communities in the latest expansive stage of the region. In addition to the prehistoric history, Espuna counts as having one of the greatest Snow Well complexes, the old refrigerators ‘Los Pozos de Nieve’ consist of 26 great circular structures located at approx. 1,300m altitude, whose origins go back to the 16th Century. Every winter workers from the town gathered snow to store in the wells, returning in spring to extract the ice and transport it to use in the bigger cities some 70Km away. It must have been a very hard and labour intensive undertaking. The summit of Espuna Mountain is 1,583m high. It provides a vantage point over splendid scenes of limestone walls in Las Paredes de Leyva (some 3Km in length) and the plateau of La Meula at 1.554m. The landscapes of the terrain have been carved by water erosion forming the tube of El Baranco de la Hoz and the narrow Estrecho de la Algualeja. There are also an intricate series of precipices (caravacas) and plateaus giving a lunar like landscape. The altitude and climatic differences of Espuna from the surrounding semi-desert create great contrasts. There are 1000 different vegetal species on Espuna, more than 1/3 of the regional flora, while in Los Barroncos de Gebas erosion causes gypsum scrubland on unstable ground. On Espuna there are 8 Amphibian, 17 reptile, 123 bird and 38 mammal species registered as endemic. A few sub species exclusive to the region have evolved such as the ‘Espuna squirrel’, the ‘arrui’ wild goat, wild cats and many small mammals. There are many types of eagles, hawks, owl and ‘carabo’ and other small birds such as the lark. For those who enjoy sport in natural surroundings, it is possible to mountain bike, scale, walk, climb, orientate, canoe and fly microlites. In the Cierva reservior a regional fishing contest takes place also tests for the Spanish Subaquatic championship in orientation. Pliego has many caves for speleology and the Leyva walls are suitable for scaling. For walkers there are 10 designated pathways of ‘small routes’. It is possible to camp in El Berro camping (where there is an information point) and other authorised zones, and there are also youth-shelters. Ricardo Codorniu interpretation centres are located in the areas of Espuna Orchard-Fuente del Hilo and Las Alquerias. From there services for the visitor are provided voluntarily; information, itineraries and also organised activities and tasks of investigation and conservation. In addition clubs and associations carry out tourist activities and re-create traditional crafts such as bread making, from slaughter of pig to roast, cutting honey in spring and the harvest of almonds in summer. All these things add to the atmosphere and attraction of experiencing this unique area, whilst giving the visitor exceptional memories to look back on.
Out and About. A (very) rough guide to touring and exploring the region. Los Narajos to St Javier From the villa turn right into Avenida Justo Quesada. At the roundabout (by Velas ) turn left and follow this road. 8Km Los Narajos to Los Alcázares From the villa cross the Avenida Justo Quesada and turn left up to the Oasis archway, turn left at the roundabout and continue along this road into town.. It is also possible to follow the Avenida Justo Quesada to the right and turn right at the roundabout (by Velas) then continue along this road into town. Oasis to MURCIA The main highway from San Javier joins the highway from Cartagena at Parador del Carmen and then on to Murcia Via Murcia to JUMILLA and YECLA In this small sector are two well known Murcian health spas and two towns which provide the most wine for this region. The road follows the Segura River between Archena and Cieza. Leave Murcia heading in the direction of Madrid. After 20 km. a detour on the left goes to Archena. A little farther on with very clear signs is the balneario (spa), a group of hotel s and special installations, which attract a great number of bathers. The river flows among leafy trees creating an ideal setting for taking a pleasant walk. On to Ulea, Ojós and Villanuevathe. The Segura Valley appears on this route. The small, bare hills accentuate the contrast with the fertile fields which are dotted with palm trees. The network of small roads can become rather confusing, best to continue on to Blanca or go up to the town of Ricote. The fertile fields continue on to Abarán and Cieza (about 25 km. from Archena). Set on a fertile plain away from the Segura, Cieza is backed by esparto-covered mountains which were formally the primary materials for its very important craft work. Nearby is the 18th century Church of La Asunción and the Convent of the Franciscan order. In the direction of Madrid for 11km. on the local highway is Jumilla. The endless extension of vineyards removes any possible doubt as to the main source of wealth of these lands which are now closer to the La Mancha region. Jumilla is a large town, spread out at the foot of a castle which towers over the surrounding fields. There is the Church of Santiago, an excellent work of art which includes both Gothic and Renaissance features as well as an occasional Baroque contribution and is a National Monument. It stands near the higher part of the town. The Town Hall - more popularly known as La Cárcel (The Prison)-. is a Renaissance structure which is furnished with a gallery whose columns resemble a medieval rather than orthodox Classicist design. The highway which skirts Jumilla also indicates the way to Casón and the Convent of Santa Ana. The Casón is a small Paleo-Christian burial ground which is dated sometime in the 4th century and which can only be seen through a gate. The Convent of Santa Ana, 6 km. away, is found in a lovely mountain area surrounded by pines. The 16th century church and in general the whole setting is tranquil. A 'Christ at the Column' by Salzillo and another 'Christ' of the 15th century are on exhibit in the temple along with some fine paintings and 18th century tiles. The Municipal Museum has interesting objects including the 'Iberian horsemen'. 26km away is Yecla, which also sits at the foot of a castle, surrounded by vineyards. Two churches stand out above the town roofs, one of which is finished off with a tower and a pyramidal chapter and the other is crowned by a high, tile-covered dome. The first church is the oldest for it dates from the 16th century and follows basically Gothic lines. The second church is dedicated to La Purísima and is a 17th century building with a Classicist style. A 'Madonna' by Salzillo is found in the Church of San Francisco. The Balneario de Fortuna, is located just 20 km. from the Archena spa, heading in the direction of Levante. It can be reached from the capital by taking a turn-off from the Murcia-Alicante highway. This spa of thermal waters has been used since the Moslem epoch and is a very pleasant spot for spending a period of rest and relaxation, amidst palm groves. Via San Javier and Murcia to Alhama de Murcia, ACANTARILLA and on to SIERRA ESPUNA The road from Murcia goes through the small town of Acantarilla on the way to Alhama de Murcia and the Reserve de Nacional de Sierra Espuna Via San Javier , Murcia and Acantarilla to MULA, CEHEGIN and CARAVACA de la CRUZ The countryside becomes far simpler to the North in large expanses which climb up an undulating terrain. The great La Mancha plateau is not very far away. The mountain scenery gives way to fruit orchards, which bloom well before the customary season. Mula is a large and prosperous town which has known how to protect and conserve its old city centre, which is made up of narrow, steep streets and many aristocratic homes. Above Mula is the castle of Roman origin which was reconstructed by Arabs and Christians. Here the Convent of the Reales Descalzas has a church with a fine Mudéjar coffered ceiling also the Shrine of El Niño de Mula and the thermal baths of Baños de Mula and the "El Cigarralejo" Museum . Cehegín (27 km. away), along local road 415 in the direction of Caravaca. appears on the right side of the road as a terraced accumulation of roof tops, above which towers a 17th-century church. Though it is of ancient foundation, Cehegín enjoyed its greatest period of splendor after the Christian conquest when the military orders stationed here began to construct their aristocratic dwellings. Seven km. away is Caravaca de la Cruz, one of the main landmarks on these inland routes. In addition to its enormous archaeological evidence as a very ancient settlement and an important border town, it was for a long time part of the patrimony of the Knights Templar and as of the 14th century it was turned over to the Knights of Santiago. During this period of wars and conversions, according to tradition, the miraculous appearance of the two-armed patriarchal cross took place, the emblem of the city, which today conserves pieces of the real Lignum Crucis. The medieval fortress and the Shrine of La Vera Cruz, a great 18th-century temple included within the castle grounds, has an imposing façade of rather heavy elements,and is in contrast with the simple and Classicist designs of the little cloister which is entered through a small doorway located on the left. The Archaeological Museum of La Soledad and the magnificent Church of El Salvador (of the 16th century) also the Church of La Concepción, the Church of the Jesuits, the Town Hall with the archway and in general the entire urban setting of Caravaca are worth a visit. Caravaca to MORATALLA and CALASPERRA Two km. away from the city, the lovely landscape of the Fuentes del Marqués makes up a nature park. Moratalla is 14 km. away, surrounded by mountains and spread out at the foot of the fortress. The landscape of pine groves and oak trees and the considerable wealth of its fauna - which includes wild boar, eagles and some capra hispánica (goats) - have made Moratalla an ideal spot for nature lovers. The town (or the old section, to be more exact) dates back to the same period as the rest of the fortified hills of this region. The Moslem epoch and the subsequent domination of the military orders left a deep impression on this area. The castle, which has an imposing keep, the Church of La Asunción (dating back to the 16th century except for its tower), the Baroque façade of the Convent of San Francisco and the lay-out of Moratalla which dominates a broad view of the surrounding countryside are fine. Nearby are the remains of the Convent of Las Mercedarias, with a Shrine, known as the House of Christ and the Shrine of La Rogativa in Inazares. Continuing along the same local road (C-145) in the direction of Elche de la Sierra on a detour 9 km. away on the right, amidst the rice paddies, is the Shrine of La Esperanza, located high in the mountains just a short distance before Calasparra. The Shrine, carved right out of the rock, beside the source of the Segura River, combines its natural beauty with its great religious significance and is the object of popular pilgrimages. In the town itself are the House of La Encomienda (under restoration), and the Churches of Los Santos and San Pedro. Via St Javier, Santiago, Lo Pagan, San Pedro,( Campoamor, Villa Martin to TORREVIEJA) From the instillations of the old military airport at St Javier continue to Santiago de la Ribera. A unique form of fishing takes place in this area and along the route nets can often be seen hanging vertically with the retangular corks nearby which will dot the smooth surface of the water when used These roads run parallel to the Mar Menor and beach and holiday buildings extend without interruption as far as San Pedro del Pinatar is the last town along the Mar Menor coast. On a brief detour off the main highway to the beach, are old aristocratic mansions and more modern structures. The wooden walkways extending into the ocean and the restaurants raised up on pillars at sea-level are the first image of the Mar Menor, with the beach to the right, in the direction of the salt deposits which close off a huge lagoon to the north. Due to its enormous iodine concentration and the high temperatures, these salt deposits have become natural spas over the years, very popular with people suffering from rheumatism. This is also the last sight of the long promenade and sands that stretch into the distance. This is also technically the end of the Murcia region, but the following information is included for those who are golf lovers, seekers of noise and night-life or the (sometimes) cheaper arrival airport of Alicante. The main highway continues to Dehesa de Campoamor, Villa Martin and Los Balcones and these are the sites of the many new golfing complexes which have sprung up around the area. The right-hand fork at Horadada will eventually take you to Torrevieja, a large tourist resort with a number of beaches and sources of entertainment apx 10K on. Ultimatel y the road leads to Alicante (probably the largest and most famous holiday town in the region) following the coast of the Medeterranean past a number of small holiday resorts including Guardamar and Santa Pola. Alicante airport is the second most popular and sometimes cheaper airport used by visitors to the villa. A coach does run from Alicante to Oasis several times a day. Via Mar Menor Coast to El Carnoli, Urutias, Nietos, Monares, Honda, Palos, La Manga, La Union A secondary highway runs along the coast, past several traditional summer holiday resorts such as Los Urrutias and Los Nietos - built on the shores of the peaceful beaches of the Mar Menor. Opposite, the islands of Isla Mayor, El Ciervo, Isla Perdiguera and two lesser islands become lost on the horizon, fusing with the La Manga. Approaching Cabo de Palos Cape, the landscape takes on a more cosmopolitan air. From Los Belones (very close to the coast) it is only six kilometres to the lighthouse of Cabo de Palos. Stopping here at the esplanade which crowns the cliff several beaches have such difficult access that bathers can be assured of a very solitary swim. Then comes La Manga, nowadays more know as the training ground for many national teams of sportsmen and the site of every kind of sporting facility. After the first six kilometres, the urban developments begin to disappear which makes it possible to admire the view of the Mediterranean and the Mar Menor from the highway. To the left, are the more tranquil warm waters where one has to walk quite a long way out in order to reach a section of any depth for swimming. To the right are the beaches of the open sea, where the swimmer can enjoy the fun of ocean waves, which are practically non-existent on the Mar Menor. Farther on, past a yacht harbour and El Estacio lighthouse, a network of channels and floodgates connect one section of the waters with another. A mill beside the roads shows that the salt deposits are not far away. The state-owned lagoons of La Torre and El Ventorillo are located here. Returning to Cabo de Palos, the mountainous mining area is very close by. This rugged rocky region, which at times offers a dramatic profile, precedes the city of Cartagena, visited by Hannibal and steeped in Roman history. It will take some time to visit. La Unión is a town which was born just a hundred years ago as a direct result of the mines, and it boasts of a couple of very interesting buildings. Lovers of a Modernist style will find in the Mercado (Market) and the Casa del Piñón two splendid examples of an architecture based on iron work which represents the general tastes of the beginning of the century. The famous Festival of the Cante de las Minas (Mine Songs) is held every August in the Market building and this festival is a unique opportunity for experiencing the magnificent flamenco song form. Via La Union to PORTMAN From La Unión,you have to take a small winding road to the left to find Portmán, located just 9 km away along a twisting road, the landscape is surprising . Gentle slopes of red earth contrast with the yellow sulphur and the ashen tones of lead to make impressive scenery. It is well worth the detour Portmán - the Portus Magnus of the Romans - is a tiny town located on a huge bay. Clearly in view are traces of a variety of mineral residues, only the large oleander bushes add a note of vibrancy to the unusual tones of the earth. La Union to Cartagena Continuing on the main highway from La Union the road leads to Cartagena Via Los Alcázares to Torre Pacheco and FUENTE ALAMO A small road leads from Los Alcázares to Torre Pacheco where there is a municipal golf course the road continues though a number of small villages crossing the Cartagena to Murcia road and on to Fuente Alamo 30Km on are Totana and Alhama de Murcia Via Los Alcázares to Cartagena and on to Mazarron, Puerto de Mazarron and BOLNUEVO The road from Cartagena to Mazarrón (37 km) is lined with esparto bushes and orleander and is a very pleasant drive. A short detour of 5 km heading South (with the sea to the left) leads to the beach of La Reya and to Bolnuevo, a town of great scenic beauty and the stunning beauty of Bolnuevo National Park. Via Cartagena and Mazarron to El Portos , Isla Plana, La Azohia, CABO TINOSO and AGUILAS The sea appears immediatel y before the entrance into the large cove which closes off the Port of Mazarrón and Punta de La Azohía. The bay extends along a succession of beaches El Portos is a traditional fishing village and footpaths lead to Cabo Tinoso where scuba divers gather to explore the special beauty of the sea bed. Views from the old military battery,( where filming for the ‘Guns of Naverone’ took place,) look towards La Azhoia, an unspoilt fishing village and the location of several watersport centres. The bay to Isla Plana has wide sandy beaches, which are only interrupted by an occasional rocky projection, are popular with fishermen. Before heading inland once again, why not visit these peaceful, secluded little corners which never lose their tranquility, even during the busy summer months. Peurto de Mazarron is said to be the jewel in the crown of the Costa Calida thanks to 35 kilometers of beaches and coves stretching all the way to Aguilas and designated an area of outstanding coastal beauty. The town of Mazarrón is located 7 km inland from the port and its beaches. The Church of San Andrés, with a Mudéjar coffered ceiling, and the remains of the Castle of Los Velez, are the monumental landmarks of this old mining town. The coastline of Peurto de Mazarron in this area is said to remind one of the coastline of Cornwall in England In Aguilas, in the southern corner of the region are the ruins of several fortresses. 16 km. away is a detour back to the coast, at Puntas de Calnegre, a small fishing town facing a broad beach belonging to the Lorca municipality. Cabo Falcón to the left and Cabo Cope mark the horizon. The Castle of Tebar is on the right, dominating the hills and gullies which separate the road from the sea. Due to its location, on a direct line with the Cabo Cope fortress, this Castle probably served as a kind of rearguard to defend the territory against attacks from the sea. Aguilas ( Returning to the national highway) to PEURTO LUMBRERAS and LORCA A maritime esplanade which skirts the beach is lined with some beautiful buildings. Together with the ruins of a castle, these are the town's most outstanding features. The fortress, fought over by Romans and Carthaginians, was reconstructed in the 16th century because of the danger represented by pirate ships coming from the North of Africa. A beautiful 'Madonna' by Salzillo can be admired in the parish church. Puerto Lumbraras is apx 20Km from Aguilas Puerto Lumbreras, very close to Andalusia and the coast (Aguilas is a little over 20 km. ) Set on a small hill, (at the exit in the direction of Granada) are a whole set of dwellings carved out of the mountain slope and with white-washed fronts. A rare examples of inhabited caves. On national highway 340 in the direction of Murcia for 17 km. is Lorca. Parking is allowed on streets on the left of the main avenue, signs show directions to the Castle and the Collegiate Church. The lower part of the town is the most recent section from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Palaces and churches line the Corredera, the Plaza Mayor and their surroundings, samples of rich civil architecture, which were at times clearly influenced by the monumental designs of the religious structures (e.g. the House of Guevara, which has a façade made of wreathed columns) and at other times closely affected by the Classicists. The Churches of San Mateo, San Francisco, El Rosario and Santiago are nearby, also the Plaza de España (or Plaza Mayor) above which towers the noble Collegiate Church of San Patricio and the lovely façade of the Town Hall. The Collegiate Church is, without doubt, one of the major buildings of the region. It was constructed between 1554 and 1776 in accordance with the Classicist mould with a Baroque façade A little farther on is the road to the Castle, which is flanked by typical houses which follow the same distribution that they had in the Moslem epoch. From the fortress, which was inhabited in the time of Alfonso X the Wise and which was of great importance during the siege of the Granada kingdom, there is a magnificent view of the whole city and the old temples of Santa María, San Juan and San Pedro in the foreground. The restored towers of 'Alfonsina' and the 'Espolón' also stand out. Via Mazarron and Lorca to TOTANA, ALEDO and on to SIERRA DE ESPUNA some 22km from Lorca along the same highway is Totana, a farming town which spreads out around an interesting 16th-century church, the parish church of Santiago, with Baroque façade and a fine Mudéjar ceiling. Opposite the church is a very unusual fountain. Off the main highway is a road in the direction Aledo, which cuts through fertile lands which are a cross between crop fields and gardens. There is the Shrine of Santa Eulalia, set amidst beautiful mountain scenery. 7km away, surrounded by pines and olive trees, is 'La Santa' (as the Sanctuary is called), whose church has a Mudéjar ceiling. Very close by is Aledo, a medieval town which is highly representative of the typical settlements existing during the Re conquest. Set on a hill which is crowned by a massive tower - the Calahorra - and the Church of Santa María la Real, Aledo affords a magnificent view of terraced farmland and mountains which heralds the beginning of the Sierra de Espuña a National Park The broad section of the region which is found to the west of the capital is made up of a mountainous area and farming communities surrounded by fruit trees and orchards. The difficult period of the Middle Ages is apparent in each one of the small towns, which are towered over, inevitably, by a castle, a fortified church or a keep to make it possible to scan the horizon against possible attacks from the enemy. Totana to ALHAMA de MURCIA, Returning to Totana , go on until Alhama de Murcia (11 km. away). A castle in ruins presides over the town, a rocky mass separates the castle from the pueblo. A local road connects Alhama with Mula. There are many golf courses within a short distance from our villa. See under Golf heading in the main menu.There are numerous well-organized camping grounds both on the coast and in-land, most have equipment to rent. Museo de Arqueología (Archaeological Museum). C/ Alfonso X, 5. Tel. 23 46 02. 30008 Murcia. Mon-Fri from 9 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 8:30 pm - Sundays and Holidays closed. July and August and the first fortnight in September from 9 am to 2 pm. Museo de Bellas Artes (Fine Arts Museum). C/ Obispo Frutos, 12. Tel. 23 93 46. 30003 Murcia. Mon-Fri from 9 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 8 pm. Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm. Sundays and Holidays closed. July and August and the first fortnight in September from 9 am to 2 pm. Los Molinos del Rio Segura (The Segura River Mills). Cultural Centre and Hydraulic Museum. Plaza de los Molinos, s/n. Tel. 22 02 05. 30002 Murcia. Mon-Sat from 11 am to 2 pm and from 6 pm to 9 pm. Sundays and Holidays closed. Museo Salzillo (Salzillo Museum). Plaza de San Agustín, 11. Tel. 29 18 93. 30004 Murcia. Tues-Sat from 9:30 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 6 pm. Mondayclosed. Sundays and Holidays from 11 am to 1 pm. Summer (May to September) from 9:30 am to 1 pm and from 4 pm to 7 pm. Museo de la Catedral (Cathedral Museum). Plaza de la Cruz, 2. Tel. 21 63 44. 30005 Murcia. Autumn/winter from 10 am to 1 pm and from 5 pm to 7 pm. Spring/summer from 10 am to 1 pm and from 5 pm to 8 pm. Museo Ramón Gaya (Ramón Gaya Museum). Casa Palarea. Plaza Santa Catalina, s/n. Tel. 22 10 99. 30004 Murcia. Tues-Sat from 10 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 8 pm. Sundays and Holidays from 11 am to 2 pm. Monday closed. July and August Mon-Fri from 10 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 8 pm. - Closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Museo de Tradiciones y Artes Populares de la Región de Murcia ( Museo Etnológico de la Huerta). (Murcia Regional Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions. Orchard Ethnological Museum). Alcantarilla Road. Alcantarilla turn-off. Tel. 80 03 40. 30820 Alcantarilla. Winte rfrom 10:30 am to 6 pm. Summer from 10 am to 8 pm. Monday closed. Museo Arqueológico "La Encomienda". Archaeological Museum. Plaza de la Constitución. La Encomienda Building. 30420 Calasparra. Visit by appointment. Tel. 72 00 44 (Town Hall). Museo de Arte Sacro e Historia (History and Religious Art Museum). Real Alcázar Santuario de la Santísima y Vera Cruz. Tel. 70 77 43 and 70 75 78. 30400 Caravaca. Times for arranged visitsFrom 10 am to 1 pm and from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Unarranged visitsfrom 11 am to 1 pm and from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Mondays and Holidays closed. Museo de la Soledad (La Soledad Museum). Iglesia de la Soledad. 30400 Caravaca de la Cruz. For organized group visits contact the Town Hall. Tel. 70 20 00. Museo de las Monjas Carmelitas (Carmelite Nuns Museum). Monasterio de San Jos. C/ Mayor, 31. Tel. 70 86 75. 30400 Caravaca. VisitsBy appointment. Museo Arqueológico Municipal (Municipal Archaeological Museum). C/ Ramón y Cajal, 45. Tel. 51 21 37. 30204 Cartagena. Timesfrom 10am to 1 pm and from 4 pm to 6 pm. Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 1 pm. ClosedMonday and Holidays. AugustMon-Fri from 9 am to 2 pm. Museo Naval (Naval Museum). C/ Menéndez Pelayo, 6. Tel. 12 71 38. 30204 Cartagena. Tues-Fri from 10 am to 1:30 pm. Saturdays from 10 am to 12:30 pm. Closed Sundays, Mondays and Holidays. Museo Nacional de Arqueología Marítima (National Maritime Archaeological Museum). Dique de Navidad, s/n. Tel. 50 84 15. 30205 Cartagena. Tues-Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm. ClosedMondays and Holidays. Museo Arqueológico Municipal (Municipal Archaeological Museum). Plaza de la Constitución. Tel. 74 07 17 (Town Hall). 30430 Ceheguín. Mon-Fri from 4 pm to 7 pm. Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 1 pm. Colección de Arte Sacro. Iglesia de Santa María Magdalena. (Religious Art Collection. Church of Santa María Magdalena). Iglesia de la Magdalena. Tel. 74 00 40. 30430 Ceheguín. Times church opening times, otherwise by appointment. Museo Arqueológico Municipal (Municipal Archaeological Museum). C/ Cadenas, 11. Tel. 45 43 15. 30530 Cieza. Timesfrom 12 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 7 pm. Saturdays and Sundaysclosed. 15th June to 15th SeptemberMon-Fri from 11 am to 2:30 pm. Jerónimo Molina" Municipal Museum. Plaza de la Constitución, 3. Tel. 78 07 40. 30520 Jumilla. Times9 am to 1 pm. and from 4 pm to 7 pm. Summer9 am to 1 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm. Sundays and Holidays from 9 am to 1 pm. Mondayclosed. Municipal (Municipal Archaeological Museum). Plaza de Juan Moreno, s/n. La Alberca. Tel. 46 32 47. 30800 Lorca. Tues-Fri from 11 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 8 pm. Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 2 pm. Summer Tues-Fri from 10 am to 2 pm and from 6 pm to 8 pm. Monday closed. Museo de Bordados (Embroidery Museum). Conjunto Monumental "Santo Domingo", M.I. Cabildo de Ntra. Sra. Virgen de la Amargura. R.I. Archicofradía de Ntra. Sra. del Rosario. Paso Blanco. 30800 Lorca. Museo de Arte Sacro (Religious Art Museum). Iglesia de la Asunción. Tel. 73 01 60 (Parish). 30440 Moratalla. Times by appointment. Museo Monográfico de "El Cigarralejo" ("El Cigarralejo" Monographic Museum). Palacio de Menahermosa. Tel. 66 14 22. 30170 Mula. Tues-Sat from 10:30 am to 2 pm. Sundays and Holidays from 10:30 am to 1 pm. Mondaysclosed. Colección Municipal del Mar (Municipal Maritime Museum). Edificio Cofradía del Mar. C/ Lorenzo Morales, s/n. Tel. 18 19 20 (groups) and 18 11 37. 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar. From 11 am to 1 pm and from 5 pm to 7 pm. Sundays and Mondays closed. Museo Minero (Mining Museum). Cultural Centre. Plaza Asensio Sáez, s/n. Tel. 54 17 92. 30360 La Unión. Mon-Sat from 11:30 am to 2 pm and 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Sunday closed. Groups by appointment. Cayetano Mergelina Municipal Archaeological Museum. C/ España, 37. Casa Municipal de Cultura. Tel. 79 18 99. 30510 Yecla. Tuesday and Thursday from 5 pm to 9 pm. Organized groups on any work-day by appointment. On the Costa Cálida (Warm Coast) all kinds of establishments are dedicated to spare time and leisure activities. Discothèques, bars, night clubs, out-door restaurants and, in general, all kinds of meeting and entertainment areas, not to mention the magnificent beaches. The Casino Mar Menor, has installations for American roulette, French roulette, black-jack, baccarat and punter and bank. The Casino is open every day after 10 pm. In addition to the sports which are practiced in urban developments and hotel s, football pitches, swimming pools, tennis courts and all kinds of water sports. Near the Puerto Deportivo Tomás Maestre (in La Manga), there are installations for the practice of micro-light flights, and also on the Murcia-Cartagena highway, in the area of Los Martínez del Puerto. There is a gymnasium in Los Alcázares Real Club de Regatas de Santiago de La
Rivera (Royal Regatta Club of Santiago de la Rivera). Tel.
57 02 50. Maximum depth 1,4m. The Airport of San Javier is located near the Mar Menor and has regular daily air service with Madrid, in addition to some charter flights. For more complete information, contact the IBERIA Airline offices in Murcia at La Libertad, no.3, Tres Jardines Building. Tel. 28 50 93 or San Javier Airport. Tel. 57 05 50. The delegation of Renfe (Spanish National Railways) in Murcia is located at Calle de Barrionuevo, 4 - Tel. 21 19 63 and 21 28 42 Murcia Alejandro Seiquer, 4. Tel. 21 37 16. Plano de San Francisco s/n. Palacio Almud. Tel. 21 98 01. Avda. de la Libertad, 10 (Edif. Alba). Tel. 24 26 77. Cartagena. Concejalía de Turismo. Town Hall. Tel. 50 64 83. Palacio Consistorial. Town Hall Square. Tel. 50 64 83 Los Alcázares, 63. Edificio Pintor Hernández Carpe. Tel. 17 13 61. San Pedro del Pinitar. Explanada de Lo Pagán. Tel. 18 23 01. Santiago de la Ribiera Cultural Centre Príncipe de Asturias. Tel. 57 17 04. Centres of tourist Initiatives Mar Menor.Ctra. San Javier (Los Alcázares). Tel. 57 52 79. Isla Plana-Azohia Ctra. Azohía, 60. Tel. 15 20 78. La Manga. Gran Vía, s/n. Bajo (Edif. Zambia). Tel. 14 07 24. |
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Our
Villa is situated in Urbanisation Oasis in the village of Los
Narajos (pronounced Los Narahos).This is part of the
municipality of Los Alcázares (pronounced Alcatheries) in the
Murcia region Southern Spain. The local coastline is bordered
by Europe’s largest saltwater lake, the almost landlocked Mar
Menor lagoon. On the other side of the lagoon is a narrow strip
of land called La Manga del Mar Menor which separates it from
Mediterranean Sea. The whole coastal area is known as the Costa
Calida.
Los
Narajos is
a fairly unremarkable village in itself and the boundary
between it and the larger Los Alcázares is blurred. Los
Narajos is characterised by a number of urbanisations, of which
Oasis is just one. Oasis has its own centre with shops, cafes
(where there are many choices of cuisine), small bars and real
estate agents. Usually many of the tourists and the ex-pat
community from England can be found here, especially when the
footie is being shown on the big screen! However the area is
fairly multi-cultural with people from Sweden, Germany,
Iceland, Norway and of course Spain who own villas there. Many
Spanish families who live inland come down to the warmer area
off-season. Everyone is very friendly.
Los
Alcázares is
an area of 20.3km inhabited by a total of 8000 people. However
as a tourist resort the numbers go up to 100,000 in the holiday
season, yet it never has the crowded feeling of the bigger
resorts further up the coast. Visitors enjoy the extraordinary
climate with an average annual temperature of 18 degrees and
2,800 hours of sunshine. This enables a profusion of palms,
fruit trees and usually out of season flowering shrubs and
plants to thrive here all year round. The proximity to Murcia’s
regional airport St
Javier
ensures easy access from Northern Europe.
The
Arabs chose this marvellous beauty spot for their holidays and
reopened the ancient Roman spas that already existed in this
area. They made good use of the excellent therapeutic
properties of its waters, and they were the ones who named this
place Los Alcázares. The word "Alcázares"
comes from Arabic (Al Kazar) which means palace or mansion and
was chosen because of the castles that lined the Mar Menor.
Gastronomy
in Los Alcázares The
gastronomy of the area is renowned for its simple recipes, as
well as for its richness and many ingredients. The typical dish
par excellence is the Caldero, originally a seafarer's dish.
The fish and seafood dishes are the mainstay of the area with
fish such as gilthead, mullet and of course the Mar
Menor
prawns. Salted fish, roe, salted tuna fish and tuna oil make
delicious appetisers. The famous produce from the orchards of
Murcia
(La Huerta) are almost always present in the preparation of the
cuisine, with typical dishes such as Michirones, Zarangollo
(broad beans in spicy sauce) and many more.
For
desserts, fruit is the main ingredient coupled with varieties
of pastries and cakes. The Cierva pasty and Tocino de Cielo are
the favourites.
The
Monument to the Pescador. On the Espejo beach, next to the
church of Asuncion, this monument cast in bronze, pays homage
to fishing and the fishermen who are the main economy of the
area. The monument represents a hardworking fisherman who drags
an empty fishnet behind him. There are two seas, the Mar Menor
and the Mediterranean sea which are represented with mermaids
riding on the seahorses, they are saddened by the fisherman
struggling in vain and help him by filling the net with fish.
The
Mar Menor is
a broad, salt-water lagoon of 170 square kilometres, almost
entirely closed off by a natural breakwater made up of sandy
deposits. It seems that it originated as a small bay, like so
many others found along the Mediterranean, but with time, the
Manga
(sleeve) began to progressively close off the cove to the point
where today only a system of canals and sluices keep the Mar
Menor
in direct contact with the open sea.
The
waters of the Mar Menor are renowned for their chemical
properties and are classified medicinal. The high concentration
of salt and iodine, shallow waters (maximum 7 meters) and
exceptional temperatures both in summer and winter are said to
be very beneficial.
To
the South, the Cabo de Palos Cape marks a striking
change in the scenery which becomes steep and rocky. It becomes
even more rugged and beautiful approaching the mining areas of
the mountainous Sierra and the old military battery of
Castillitos where the filming of the ‘Guns of
Navarone’ took place. A mountainous footpath leads to Cabo
Tinoso a haven for scuba divers.
The
port, 'to which the Cartago people lent their name' - according
to Cervantes - is now a great city in which it is easy to get
lost. The best advice is to park the car on the Alfonso XIII
dock (which is easy to find) and explore the old part of the
town on foot or catch the sightseeing bus for a circular grand
tour with commentary on headphones and map provided. Cartagena
has a bustling and lively Port and Marina and is home to the
Spanish Navy. It is also a stop off point for all major ships
navigating the Mediterranean, enabling passengers to enjoy the
wealth of history the city offers.