Murcia Was Founded In 831 AD
If you want to sample Spanish culture, be sure to visit Murcia. You will be able to sample all the nation has to offer.
Murcia was founded in 831 A.D. and you can still see many aspects of its long history. Everyone who has lived here has enjoyed its mild and short winters and long hot summers (temperatures often reach 40 degrees Celsius.)
When temperatures get that high, the best thing to do is head to the beach and there are many of them here. Mar Menor (Small Sea) Lagoon is one of these, with only a small sand bar separating it from the ocean. What a perfect spot for sunbathing.
Because the weather is so favorable, people love to be outside, thus there are many festivals throughout the year. The most beautiful are the Easter Week processions which commemorate the life of Christ and the area's many patron saints.
As with most European cities, Christianity plays a major role in the culture. Murcia's cathedral is a wonderful example of this: It has a mixture of styles from Gothic to Baroque. Likewise the Sanctuary of Fuensanta, from the 18th century honors Murcia's patron saint and is a lovely, reverent spot.
Be sure to visit the Museo de Tradiciones y Artes Populares for a real feel of the city and its culture. Farming tools and domestic artifacts are among the many items on display, some are more than 300 years old. You will get a real understanding for the people of this region.
One thing you will discover is that Murcia has a real affinity for seafood. Most restaurants will feature seafood on its menus. It is well worth tasting. Likewise, the area is plentiful in fruits and vegetables, such as olives, legumes and peppers. It's a pleasure to taste all this freshness in your meals. The food in Murcia alone will make your visit here memorable.
There are many places to stay in Murcia, from posh resorts to inexpensive hotels. You may even want to consider renting an apartment or a home. This is a wonderful option for families or those who don't want to eat in a restaurant every night. You will also get a better feel for how Murcia's people live.
Be sure to plan ahead for travelling to Murcia. There is so much to see and do, you don't want to miss any of it. Go online and explore the region has to offer. Your travel agent may be able to find some great deals on airfare and other travel arrangements. Your travel agent or a website may have some great tips as to the best time to visit Murcia and what to pack. You want everything to be just right for this fabulous vacation.
