Murcia was formed on the Segura River in the 9th century by the moors, the town quickly became an important commercial trade centre. Its wealth was mainly based on the fertility of the outlying market gardens.

In the early 1300's it was the regional capital and continued to prosper, its 18th century wealth funding the majority of its best buildings. Today it's an agricultural and commercial centre, a delightful and truly Spanish city which makes few concessions to tourism..

Things to see:-

Casino and Churches.

The casino was built in approx 1847, this truly memorable structure is still in use today, was once the town�s main social meeting place, offering members a library, meeting rooms, billiard room and ballroom. An discerning style of Moorish features, marble and metalwork, French inspired grandeur painted ceilings and English craftsmanship, the casino cannot be missed.
There are several churches of outstanding architectural quality. Murcia is full of delights and lovers of baroque will discover many staggering examples of this fantastic style. Amongst the best are La Merced, San Miguel and Santa Ana.

Museo de Bellas Artes.

This museum hosts a large and varied collection of pictures giving a comprehensive view of the development of Murcian painting from 15th to 20th centuries� Museo de la Catedral.

Located inside Murcia's great cathedral, this museum hosts early sculpture, including a roman sarcophagus and gives pride of place to the huge and ornate 600kg gold and silver consecrated object, used at feast of Corpus Christi.

Murcia today has seen much development with golf courses, residential complexes, a fantastic large new shopping complex and even a new airport. One of the most outstanding golf courses recently to have been designed is 'Hacienda Del Alamo', now one of the longest and widest in Europe. The par five 9th hole is a massive 542 metres, surely a test for Tiger Woods..

The best way to travel Murcia is by flying to San Javier Airport and hiring a car