Journey Through the Enchanting Landscapes and Culture of Murcia, Spain
Murcia, Spain’s Warm Coast
Murcia was long known for producing food. But today, its best-known export is its wines. Specifically, its full-bodied, low-spreading Monastrell variety found in DO Bullas, Jumilla, and Yecla.
From relaxing morning café con leche gatherings with friends to indulgent lunches. Spanish cuisine and wine are at the core of this relaxed region.
Roman History
Cartagena is an absolute must for history buffs and wine connoisseurs alike. Boasting fewer crowds than many of Spain’s other top destinations and making for easy meandering of charming streets.
Cartagena was establish by the CarthaginianS in 227 BC under its original name of Qart-Hadast. Its quickly rose to fame when Hannibal launched his famous elephant expedition from here.
Today, Roman ruins can still be seen throughout the city. Including a 1st Century B.C. theater and Muralla Punica interpretation center. Additionally, wine enthusiasts should make time to visit, as this region boasts three Denominacion de Origen (DO) wines: Yecla, Jumilla and Bullas. Of note is Bullas; newly establish vineyards boast Monastrell as well as Tempranillo vines that make these delicious wines. For an enjoyable tasting experience and deep red hued wines made here by these DOs you must try local varieties like Yecla, Jumilla or Bullas!
Costa Calida
This coastal stretch, known as the Warm Coast in English, boasts sandy beaches that tend to be much less popular among visitors than Costa Blanca and Almeria coastlines. This makes for an excellent getaway spot for families with kids, couples and solo travellers.
This region boasts a warm climate, making it a wonderful year-round travel destination. Outdoor adventure activities such as hiking or mountain biking trails are popular here while golf remains one of the main draws.
Rural agri-tourism is an integral part of Spain. Such as Monastrell – one of the most beloved red varieties – due to their distinct climate: hot summer days give way to cooler winter nights and create distinctive flavours and characteristics in each variety. Therefore many vineyards open to visitors are open so visitors can visit and taste the wines produced there.
Wine Route In Murcia
Murcia stands out among other Spanish regions by having warm summer climates, making its vineyards internationally-recognized. Bullas, Jumilla and Yecla municipalities have become well-known wine routes offering wide varieties of Denominacion de Origen wines.
Monastrell vines produce fruity red wines. Other cultivars such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Tempranillo as well as white varieties.
Rural agri-tourism allows guests to gain insight into all stages of production while enjoying an indulging breakfast or lunch in a country restaurant. For something extra delicious, try out Marinera: an incredible fish salad served on a round doughnut called a tostadilla; its flavors make this regional delicacy simply irresistible!
Cuisine & Tapas
Murcia provides an ideal venue for exploring Spain’s vibrant tapas culture without being overwhelmed by crowds of visitors from Spain’s southern regions. Warm all year-round, July to August prove especially captivating as this Mediterranean coast region hosts one of the hottest summers on record and features delicious cuisine that draws people in from across Europe.
Murcia, known as Europe’s Orchard, boasts incredible land and seascapes that produce wonderful fruit, flowers and vegetables, including those found in British supermarkets such as melons, oranges and tomatoes.
Zarangollo, or Murcian ratatouille, should definitely be sampled! Another delicious dish here is Marinera: a small Russian salad consisting of potatoes, tuna and other canned vegetables, served on finely toasted bread with an anchovy for topping!
Architecture Of Murcia
Murcia’s varied history as part of both Caliphate, Al-Andalus and Christian Spain has resulted in an eclectic blend of architectural styles. A prime example is the cathedral at Plaza del Cardenal Belluga with its baroque elements on its facade while the interior boasts Gothic and Renaissance features.
Do not miss visiting Murcia Cathedral and exploring city streets like Traperia and Plateria where delicious food and beverages await. Additionally, take note of Monteagudo Castle (Castillo de Monteagudo), featuring an 11th Century Christ sculpture atop the 14m high tower!
If modern architecture is your passion, be sure to visit Rafael Moneo’s City Hall Annex designed by him. His challenge was designing an iconic structure representing Municipal government against two religious buildings with strong historical precedent.
City
Murcia exudes youthful energy thanks to its university population, making its compact pedestrianised centre an absolute delight to stroll around. There’s plenty of history to uncover too; Murcia Cathedral alone offers stunning baroque, Renaissance and Gothic architecture – not forgetting Santa Clara Monastery and Museum; this former Islamic Palace now serves as a convent boasting an amazing central pool as well as religious art that makes for an impressive sight!
Rural agri-tourism is also popular in this region, with residents taking advantage of the warm temperatures and gorgeous scenery to take part. Foodies will find plenty to love here too. From traditional Huertas farmhouses with thatched roofs to local favorites. Such as chorizo and paella, plus there’s plenty of fruit & veg thanks to fertile landscapes known as The Orchard of Europe. Where some delicious fruit-centric dishes can be found!
