Murcia is the capital of the region of the same name. The population is approx. 450,000 - making it Spain's seventh largest city. Its history dates back to the year 825, when it was founded by the Emir of Cordoba. The Moors, the name of the North African Islamists who controlled the area until 1212, have of course left their marks on the city's culture and architecture.
It is located on the Segura River, about 45 km from the Mediterranean Sea and the Mar Menor. The distance to the Murcia Region's second largest city, the port city of Cartagena is barely 50 km away.
The climate is like the rest of the Murcia region, hot summers, mild winters and very little rainfall.
With its central location, the city is an important traffic hub and trading town for agricultural products. It is also known as a university town. It is also called Europe's orchard because of its long tradition of producing and exporting fruit, vegetables and flowers. The area is also well known for the production of wine.
It is a fantastic city, with lots of history marked by different cultures.
Interesting buildings include the city's Cathedral "Cathedral de Santa Maria". It was built from 1385, on the foundations of an ancient mosque, and didn’t really finish until the 18th century. The tower was built from 1521 to 1791 and is 95 m high.
Other interesting buildings include the beautiful town hall, its Casino (formerly the gentleman's club) in Traperia (street in the old town). The street name comes from the city's Jewish inhabitants and means clothes, another street in the same district is Plateria, based on the fact that here the Jews sold precious metals.
There are lots of cozy alleys and squares in the old town which is next to the Segura river. Here are both traditional and international cafes, bars and restaurants - nightlife is also absolutely fantastic.
