Talks between the Government and the USCA union have broken down
The Ministry for Development has called on the USCA, Air Traffic Controllers Union, to accept their latest proposal for arbitration, or fix a date for their threatened strike action.
Following the failure of talks, a statement from the Ministry considered that ‘the culture of blackmail’ is trying to gain ‘priviledges’ which will damage the economic recovery and the citizens. Secretary of State for Transport, Concepción Gutiérrez, said that their rejection of an offer of 200,000 € pay was ‘an insult to the Spanish people’.
Meanwhile the union has described the Spanish Airports Authority, AENA, and the Ministry for Development as ‘irresponsible’ for not negotiating.
Latest reports indicate that a strike, if one is called, will be from August 22. The union plans to meet on Thursday when they will decide whether to accept the offer to go to arbitration, or call the strike.
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Saturday, August 7, 2010
Earthquake rocks Murcia village
AN earthquake rocked the village of Santomera (Murcia) in the early hours of August 3rd, according to emergency services which received a dozen calls from panicked residents.
However, the quake, which measured 2.9 on the Richter scale, did not cause any injuries or severe material damage.
The quake, of which the epicentre was in the north-west of Santomera, occurred at around 07.33hrs and was also felt in Lorquí, Ceutí and Molina de Segura.
However, the quake, which measured 2.9 on the Richter scale, did not cause any injuries or severe material damage.
The quake, of which the epicentre was in the north-west of Santomera, occurred at around 07.33hrs and was also felt in Lorquí, Ceutí and Molina de Segura.
costa calida
The Mar Menor used to be part of the Mediterranean. La Manga “The Sleeve”
was formed by lava, which was released due to movement in the Earth’s plates.
Did you know that Isla del Baron is named after The Baron of Benifayo who was the
first resident of the Island? He was keeping a low profile, as he had killed a
man in a duel over a princess.
The look out tower on the Island was built in the 1950’s, based on Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs (very famous modernist) much deeper at that time, as there is evidence of large ships coming into the Mar Menor. There were also a number of deep-water entry points into the Mar Menor from the Mediterranean. Since that time, the silting up of the Mar Menor and the formation of La Manga has
continued, until it is as we see it today.
was formed by lava, which was released due to movement in the Earth’s plates.
Did you know that Isla del Baron is named after The Baron of Benifayo who was the
first resident of the Island? He was keeping a low profile, as he had killed a
man in a duel over a princess.
The look out tower on the Island was built in the 1950’s, based on Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs (very famous modernist) much deeper at that time, as there is evidence of large ships coming into the Mar Menor. There were also a number of deep-water entry points into the Mar Menor from the Mediterranean. Since that time, the silting up of the Mar Menor and the formation of La Manga has
continued, until it is as we see it today.
Sea Life of the Mar Menor
The Mar Menor is a unique marine environment. Its shallow waters mean that
the temperature fluctuates more than the Mediterranean and due to evaporation
during the summer months it becomes 25% saltier than the Med.
Over the next few weeks I will be writing about the many
different species that live in the Mar Menor.
I will describe the creatures that you may see while swimming, snorkelling or even
just paddling. This week I will consider the geology of the Mar Menor, how it was
formed and its history.
the temperature fluctuates more than the Mediterranean and due to evaporation
during the summer months it becomes 25% saltier than the Med.
Over the next few weeks I will be writing about the many
different species that live in the Mar Menor.
I will describe the creatures that you may see while swimming, snorkelling or even
just paddling. This week I will consider the geology of the Mar Menor, how it was
formed and its history.
follow me on facebook and twitter
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Add your input and knowledge!
Thank you
http://twitter.com/rentawreck_es
Add your input and knowledge!
Thank you
Friday, August 6, 2010
DIVING
From san pedro to cabo palos you will find some exceptional sea beds.
The refuge of perch,Groupers,lobsters,Milt,Moray eels,Turtles,Swordfish,Moonfish,Dolphins....
All this, Together with the privileged climate, make it an outstanding place to dive all year round
The refuge of perch,Groupers,lobsters,Milt,Moray eels,Turtles,Swordfish,Moonfish,Dolphins....
All this, Together with the privileged climate, make it an outstanding place to dive all year round
TERRA NATURA MURCIA
More than 300 Animals of 100 different species, discover the zoo immersion.
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Sea-lion shows
Animal activities
Over 30 different species of Iberian birds, Pheasants,Buzzards and storks included
http://www.terranatura.com/Eng/TerraNaturaMurcia/Ficha3.aspx?FrmCodA=5&FrmCodB=44&FrmCodC=129&FrmRegistro=1&FrmInicio=S
.jpg)
Sea-lion shows
Animal activities
Over 30 different species of Iberian birds, Pheasants,Buzzards and storks included
http://www.terranatura.com/Eng/TerraNaturaMurcia/Ficha3.aspx?FrmCodA=5&FrmCodB=44&FrmCodC=129&FrmRegistro=1&FrmInicio=S
Bike hire lo pagan
Rent a bike for 10 euro per day or 60 euro per week
Phone BIKE CENTRO (0034) 968 183 580
Avda. generalisimo 74 (bajo), Esquina C/santander
e-mail bikecentro@hotmail.com
Phone BIKE CENTRO (0034) 968 183 580
Avda. generalisimo 74 (bajo), Esquina C/santander
e-mail bikecentro@hotmail.com
Thursday, August 5, 2010
JET2 IN MURCIA FOR LONG HAUL
Travel
Further to the Ryanair and Air Berlin announcements that they will be cancelling several of their routes into Murcia, Jet2.com says that it will continue to operate as normal between the UK and Murcia.
The company says it is proud of its association with Murcia and is fully committed to serving this popular destination.
Jet2.com offers flights from Belfast, Blackpool, Edinburgh, Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle to Murcia. Of these, flights from Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle to Murcia operate during the summer and winter periods, allowing people to take a break al through the year.
It would appear that Jet2.com will be about the only airline offering these flights in the winter
Further to the Ryanair and Air Berlin announcements that they will be cancelling several of their routes into Murcia, Jet2.com says that it will continue to operate as normal between the UK and Murcia.
The company says it is proud of its association with Murcia and is fully committed to serving this popular destination.
Jet2.com offers flights from Belfast, Blackpool, Edinburgh, Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle to Murcia. Of these, flights from Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle to Murcia operate during the summer and winter periods, allowing people to take a break al through the year.
It would appear that Jet2.com will be about the only airline offering these flights in the winter
HOLIDAY EXODUS AS NORTH AFRICANS HEAD HOME
News
2.7 million people of Magreb origin are expected to cross the Algeciras Bay
Over a quarter of a million people have moved through Almeria Port in the last couple of weeks heading home to North Africa for their summer holidays as part of ‘La Operación Paso del Estrecho’.
The operation is carried out every year as an anticipated 2.7 million people of Magreb origin are expected to cross the Algeciras Bay. Most of them will travel in some 700,000 vehicles, the great majority of them being well over-loaded.
According to data provided by the Dirección General de Protección Civil y Emergencias, following the two busiest weekends of the year, a total of 1,050,574 people and 281,217 vehicles have left Spain on ferries operating from the ports of Algeciras and Tarifa (Cadiz) and Almeria, Malaga and Alicante.
Algeciras port has been the busiest with 592,684 passengers and 185,034 vehicles recorded since the beginning of the operation, followed by Almeria, Tarifa, Malaga and Alicante, which now stands at 4864.
The port of Almeria has already transitted 254,826 people and 58,173 vehicles, while through Tarifa, there have been 115,328 passengers and 21,404 vehicles transferred to North Africa.
Approximately 2,000 people are employed in the ports including health workers, Arab and French interpreters, social workers, Red Cross volunteers, Protección Civil and other security services.
2.7 million people of Magreb origin are expected to cross the Algeciras Bay
Over a quarter of a million people have moved through Almeria Port in the last couple of weeks heading home to North Africa for their summer holidays as part of ‘La Operación Paso del Estrecho’.
The operation is carried out every year as an anticipated 2.7 million people of Magreb origin are expected to cross the Algeciras Bay. Most of them will travel in some 700,000 vehicles, the great majority of them being well over-loaded.
According to data provided by the Dirección General de Protección Civil y Emergencias, following the two busiest weekends of the year, a total of 1,050,574 people and 281,217 vehicles have left Spain on ferries operating from the ports of Algeciras and Tarifa (Cadiz) and Almeria, Malaga and Alicante.
Algeciras port has been the busiest with 592,684 passengers and 185,034 vehicles recorded since the beginning of the operation, followed by Almeria, Tarifa, Malaga and Alicante, which now stands at 4864.
The port of Almeria has already transitted 254,826 people and 58,173 vehicles, while through Tarifa, there have been 115,328 passengers and 21,404 vehicles transferred to North Africa.
Approximately 2,000 people are employed in the ports including health workers, Arab and French interpreters, social workers, Red Cross volunteers, Protección Civil and other security services.
GIRL SAVES GRANDFATHER´S LIFE
News
Angela´s quick thinking and determination saved her grandfather´s life
Ten year old Ángela Madrid García became the guardian angel for her grandfather last week, when she saved his life.
Seventy four year old Fernando García Valle was swimming in the sea near the Cartagena Navidad Lighthouse with his granddaughter last Sunday afternoon when he lost control of his body in the water. Angela asked him what the matter was, but he started to panic and couldn´t get his head above the water.
Angela grabbed him by the chin and tried to drag him out of the water. He was too heavy for her though, and his body kept dragging her down, so Angela pushed him ashore, as hard as she could. When they reached the shore she cried for held and her aunts helped her to pull him out of the water.
Angela´s quick thinking and determination saved her grandfather´s life. The rest of the family didn´t even notice the situation. A lifeguard showed the family how to place Fernando on his side in the foetal position to help him expel all the water he had swallowed and inhaled.
When Fernando started foaming at the mouth little Angela broke into tears. “His legs, mouth, face and feet were lilac and I was really scared,” she says, sitting on his bedside in the Rosell Hospital in Cartagena.
Fernando was in a serious condition and was rushed to hospital. He will be kept in until all the water has gone from his lungs.
Angela´s quick thinking and determination saved her grandfather´s life
Ten year old Ángela Madrid García became the guardian angel for her grandfather last week, when she saved his life.
Seventy four year old Fernando García Valle was swimming in the sea near the Cartagena Navidad Lighthouse with his granddaughter last Sunday afternoon when he lost control of his body in the water. Angela asked him what the matter was, but he started to panic and couldn´t get his head above the water.
Angela grabbed him by the chin and tried to drag him out of the water. He was too heavy for her though, and his body kept dragging her down, so Angela pushed him ashore, as hard as she could. When they reached the shore she cried for held and her aunts helped her to pull him out of the water.
Angela´s quick thinking and determination saved her grandfather´s life. The rest of the family didn´t even notice the situation. A lifeguard showed the family how to place Fernando on his side in the foetal position to help him expel all the water he had swallowed and inhaled.
When Fernando started foaming at the mouth little Angela broke into tears. “His legs, mouth, face and feet were lilac and I was really scared,” she says, sitting on his bedside in the Rosell Hospital in Cartagena.
Fernando was in a serious condition and was rushed to hospital. He will be kept in until all the water has gone from his lungs.
EMPTY BOAT MYSTERY
News
Empty boat was spotted drifting off the coast of Altea
At midday last Tuesday an empty boat was spotted drifting off the coast of Altea, amongst luxury yachts and jet skiers.
The boat was carrying water, food, clothes and rope, but no people. Guardia Civil officers are investigating who the boat belongs to. One hypothesis is that it may be the vessel in which the three immigrants, whose bodies have been located floating in the area, were travelling on.
When the boat was reported drifting on the currents, Red Cross workers set off to look for survivors, but none were spotted. The boat was then towed to Altea Port to be inspected. It has the name Jesus written on the side in Arabic writing.
Inside the boat were also found two bags, one containing a notebook with handwriting in Arabic, which is now being analysed.
CARTAGENA – A MUST TO VISIT
News
Roman Theater
Cartagena is a passionate, temperamental city, built in sudden fits of inspiration followed by historical blackouts.
A settlement already existed before it was founded by Carthaginian General Hasdrubal, as shown by the Phoenician boats still sunk in its bay. It was refounded by the Romans as Carthago Nova and then became a key location on 18th-century military maps, and a fickle friend of the First Republic.
The city revolted against the central government, and for six months between 1873 and 1874 the Cantón de Cartagena became a sovereign nation, coined money and even asked the United States for admission into the Union.
The latest burst of energy in this city of 230,000 is taking place now, and it has to do with architecture. It is as if the city’s ego has found an escape valve in designer construction. The fever is being channelled mostly into refurbishing vestiges of the past and decking them with avant-garde finishing touches. But there are also entirely new buildings that dazzle the eye, plus state-of-the-art street fixtures.
Of all the restoration projects, the Roman Theatre stands out the most. In the year and a half since its reopening, it has become the most visited monument in the entire region. It was not until 1990 that city officials realized it was there, lying under a block of humble homes in the fishermen’s quarter, which the city promptly bought and demolished. The archaeological work was complemented by an architectural project led by Rafael Moneo, who won several prizes for his efforts. The fact that Carthago Nova had such a large theatre (it is a meter longer than the Roman Theatre at Mérida and seated around 6,000 spectators) indicates that it was an important city.
Other Roman remains are scattered all over the old part of town, and have been admirably prepared for public inspection. There is the Decumano, a paved road complete with shops and thermal baths, or the House of Fortune, which contains mosaics, frescoes and a road dating back to the first century.
Similarly, the remains of the Punic Wall have been wrapped up in glass and concrete to create a visitor centre with information about the period when the city was known as Qart Hadast. The Fort of Concepción, a castle built atop the tallest of the five hills surrounding the city, is a reminder of Cartagena’s medieval history.
But there is no doubt that the most dazzling part of Cartagena is its maritime promenade. A few years ago it was nothing more than a seedy parking lot, but cars have since been banished and the entire seafront has been made pedestrian friendly against the backdrop of the Carlos III gardens for another pleasant surprise.
Roman Theater
Cartagena is a passionate, temperamental city, built in sudden fits of inspiration followed by historical blackouts.
A settlement already existed before it was founded by Carthaginian General Hasdrubal, as shown by the Phoenician boats still sunk in its bay. It was refounded by the Romans as Carthago Nova and then became a key location on 18th-century military maps, and a fickle friend of the First Republic.
The city revolted against the central government, and for six months between 1873 and 1874 the Cantón de Cartagena became a sovereign nation, coined money and even asked the United States for admission into the Union.
The latest burst of energy in this city of 230,000 is taking place now, and it has to do with architecture. It is as if the city’s ego has found an escape valve in designer construction. The fever is being channelled mostly into refurbishing vestiges of the past and decking them with avant-garde finishing touches. But there are also entirely new buildings that dazzle the eye, plus state-of-the-art street fixtures.
Of all the restoration projects, the Roman Theatre stands out the most. In the year and a half since its reopening, it has become the most visited monument in the entire region. It was not until 1990 that city officials realized it was there, lying under a block of humble homes in the fishermen’s quarter, which the city promptly bought and demolished. The archaeological work was complemented by an architectural project led by Rafael Moneo, who won several prizes for his efforts. The fact that Carthago Nova had such a large theatre (it is a meter longer than the Roman Theatre at Mérida and seated around 6,000 spectators) indicates that it was an important city.
Other Roman remains are scattered all over the old part of town, and have been admirably prepared for public inspection. There is the Decumano, a paved road complete with shops and thermal baths, or the House of Fortune, which contains mosaics, frescoes and a road dating back to the first century.
Similarly, the remains of the Punic Wall have been wrapped up in glass and concrete to create a visitor centre with information about the period when the city was known as Qart Hadast. The Fort of Concepción, a castle built atop the tallest of the five hills surrounding the city, is a reminder of Cartagena’s medieval history.
But there is no doubt that the most dazzling part of Cartagena is its maritime promenade. A few years ago it was nothing more than a seedy parking lot, but cars have since been banished and the entire seafront has been made pedestrian friendly against the backdrop of the Carlos III gardens for another pleasant surprise.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Natural resources and rural tourism
The region of Murcia has 19 areas under different statutes of protection, representing 6% of its territory.
San Pedro’s marsh
* Sierra Espuña: Protected Natural Space, it has an area of 17,804 ha, located on the Baetic Cordillera within the basin of the Segura. It is also declared as Special Protected Area for the Birds.
* Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar, salt marsh by the Mar Menor.
* Cabo Cope-Puntas del Calnegre, between Águilas and Lorca, by the Mediterranean sea. The government of Murcia has amended Law 1/2001 of 24 April on Land in the Region of Murcia, declassifying a total of 1600 hectares of the land protected by the Regional Park of Cabo Cope and Puntas de Calnegre. Rares species of animals (Bonelli's eagle, Greek tortoise) and plants are threatened.
* Calblanque, Monte de las Cenizas y Peña del Aguila, between La Manga and Cartagena, Calblanque is also one of the top-favourite beaches for the Murcians although it is an undeveloped area.
* Carrascoy y el Valle, is a Special Protection Area (SPA) and Site of Community Importance (SCI).
* Sierra de la Pila, also a Special Protection Area (SPA).
* Sierra del Carche, also part of 7 the Baetic Cordillera.
* Cañón de Almadenes
Cañón de Almadenes
* Humedal del Ajuaque y Rambla Salada, another wetland and also a Special Protection Area (SPA).
* Cerro de Cabezo Gordo, in which there is the archaeological site of Sima de las Palomas, a cave where the second oldest human remains in the Iberian Peninsula were found.
* La Muela y Cabo Tiñoso
* Islas del Mediterráneo or the Mediterranean Islands. A group of islands and islets on the Murcian Mediterranean. It has a high ecological importance.
* Espacios Abiertos e Islas del Mar Menor, in which the five volcanic islands of the Mar Menor are included.
* Sierra de las Moreras
* Cañaverosa
* Sierra de Salinas
* Barrancos de Gebas
* Saladares del Guadalentín
* Cuatro Calas
Inner lands of the region, near the historical towns of Caravaca de la Cruz and Moratalla, offer a number of rural accommodations and facilities: cottages, farmhouses, country houses and camp sites. Visitors can engage in activities related to excursions, day trips, sports, sightseeing.
[edit]
San Pedro’s marsh
* Sierra Espuña: Protected Natural Space, it has an area of 17,804 ha, located on the Baetic Cordillera within the basin of the Segura. It is also declared as Special Protected Area for the Birds.
* Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar, salt marsh by the Mar Menor.
* Cabo Cope-Puntas del Calnegre, between Águilas and Lorca, by the Mediterranean sea. The government of Murcia has amended Law 1/2001 of 24 April on Land in the Region of Murcia, declassifying a total of 1600 hectares of the land protected by the Regional Park of Cabo Cope and Puntas de Calnegre. Rares species of animals (Bonelli's eagle, Greek tortoise) and plants are threatened.
* Calblanque, Monte de las Cenizas y Peña del Aguila, between La Manga and Cartagena, Calblanque is also one of the top-favourite beaches for the Murcians although it is an undeveloped area.
* Carrascoy y el Valle, is a Special Protection Area (SPA) and Site of Community Importance (SCI).
* Sierra de la Pila, also a Special Protection Area (SPA).
* Sierra del Carche, also part of 7 the Baetic Cordillera.
* Cañón de Almadenes
Cañón de Almadenes
* Humedal del Ajuaque y Rambla Salada, another wetland and also a Special Protection Area (SPA).
* Cerro de Cabezo Gordo, in which there is the archaeological site of Sima de las Palomas, a cave where the second oldest human remains in the Iberian Peninsula were found.
* La Muela y Cabo Tiñoso
* Islas del Mediterráneo or the Mediterranean Islands. A group of islands and islets on the Murcian Mediterranean. It has a high ecological importance.
* Espacios Abiertos e Islas del Mar Menor, in which the five volcanic islands of the Mar Menor are included.
* Sierra de las Moreras
* Cañaverosa
* Sierra de Salinas
* Barrancos de Gebas
* Saladares del Guadalentín
* Cuatro Calas
Inner lands of the region, near the historical towns of Caravaca de la Cruz and Moratalla, offer a number of rural accommodations and facilities: cottages, farmhouses, country houses and camp sites. Visitors can engage in activities related to excursions, day trips, sports, sightseeing.
[edit]
Beaches and golf
La Manga del Mar Menor
This is the most developed tourist resource in Murcia. The Costa Cálida has 250 km of beaches, from el Mojón at the North near Alicante to Águilas, South West Murcia, near Almería. One of the major destinations of Murcia is the Mar Menor or Small Sea, the largest natural lake of Spain and the largest salty lagoon in Europe, located by the Mediterranean. It is separated from the mediterranean by a 22 km narrow sandy strip known as La Manga del Mar Menor or simply La Manga. It is probably the most developed and overcrowded holiday area of Murcia, despite being declared a Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (SPAMIs) by theUnited Nations.
Mar Menor's muds are famous for its therapeutic properties. Apart from Mar Menor, the Murcian coast from the historical city of Cartagena to the frontier with Andalusia, that corresponds to the Mediterranean Sea alternates wild and unspoilt rocky areas with large sandy beaches, with the towns of Mazarrón and Águilas standing out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUp-4XJc4kk&feature=related
The tourism needs have forced the area to add all kinds of facilities and services. The construction boom shows the huge amount of estates, including the controversial holiday resorts of Polaris World and second residences, as well as numerous malls. Thanks to the orography and climate of the region of Murcia, these lands are suitable for golf courses, a fact that has been very controversial because of the need for water, which Murcia lacks being a very dry region.
Other services includes charter nautical, yacht facilities, golf courses, adventure tourism companies, sports federations, tourist routes, guided visits, excursions by sea.
This is the most developed tourist resource in Murcia. The Costa Cálida has 250 km of beaches, from el Mojón at the North near Alicante to Águilas, South West Murcia, near Almería. One of the major destinations of Murcia is the Mar Menor or Small Sea, the largest natural lake of Spain and the largest salty lagoon in Europe, located by the Mediterranean. It is separated from the mediterranean by a 22 km narrow sandy strip known as La Manga del Mar Menor or simply La Manga. It is probably the most developed and overcrowded holiday area of Murcia, despite being declared a Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (SPAMIs) by theUnited Nations.
Mar Menor's muds are famous for its therapeutic properties. Apart from Mar Menor, the Murcian coast from the historical city of Cartagena to the frontier with Andalusia, that corresponds to the Mediterranean Sea alternates wild and unspoilt rocky areas with large sandy beaches, with the towns of Mazarrón and Águilas standing out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUp-4XJc4kk&feature=related
The tourism needs have forced the area to add all kinds of facilities and services. The construction boom shows the huge amount of estates, including the controversial holiday resorts of Polaris World and second residences, as well as numerous malls. Thanks to the orography and climate of the region of Murcia, these lands are suitable for golf courses, a fact that has been very controversial because of the need for water, which Murcia lacks being a very dry region.
Other services includes charter nautical, yacht facilities, golf courses, adventure tourism companies, sports federations, tourist routes, guided visits, excursions by sea.
Tourism in the Region of Murcia
The Murcia region is little known even within Spain, maybe that’s the reason why it continues to be relatively unspoilt compared to other more overcrowded areas of the Spanish Mediterranean coast. Nevertheless its more than 300 sunny days a year with an average temperature of 21 degrees, and the 250 km (156 miles) of beaches of the so-called Costa Cálida (Warm Coast) have attracted tourists for decades. Although little known, Murcia is being promoted as a cultural destination, in which are included several tourist dynamic projects.[citation needed] Murcia is one of the Spanish autonomous communities that has grown the most in the last years, and it has conferred it the character of an ideal destination of services, shopping and for the organization of cultural events and conventions.
Cultural Tourism
Major tourist destinations
Murcia Cathedral.
* Murcia, the capital city offers the facilities, equipment and services of a large city. It is the seventh largest Spanish city by population with approximately 439,000 inhabitants in 2009. Murcia's sights include a very tall belfry and its famous Cathedral. Murcia is also a large University town with more than 30,000 students per year. It has more than 2 million km2 of parks and gardens. Murcia has a rich history tied to the Jewish community.
* Cartagena, is the region's second largest city and one of the main Spanish naval bases. Sights include its recently restored Roman Theatre (among its numerous other Roman remains), a number of modernist buildings made or its military fortifications
* Lorca is a large medieval town at the foothills of where its famous castle stands. It is the second largest municipality of Spain by area.
* Caravaca de la Cruz, or simply Caravaca, is one of the five official Holy cities for Catholicism since it is claimed to house of part of the Lignum Crucis, the Holy Cross.
The castles itinerary
Castle of Lorca
The interior of the region of Murcia has plenty of castles and fortifications showing the importance of these frontier lands between the Christian Castile and the Muslim Andalusia. They include:
* Castle of Jumilla, a former Roman fortification turned by the Moors into an Alcazaba. The Castilian Kings and the marquis of Villena gave it its appearance of Gothic royal residence.
* Castle of Moratalla, one of the largest castles of the province, built to defend the town of Moratalla from the invaders from the nearby Muslim Kingdom of Granada.
* Castle of Mula, of Muslim origin, but as many castles, eventually restored and renovated.
* Real Alcázar of Caravaca de la Cruz, where the Holy sanctuary was built, also of Moorish origin, conquered by the Christians and finally home of several noble families.
* Concepción Castle, in Cartagena, built on one of the five hills of the old Carthagena, following the Roman taste. Now is home of the Centre for the Interpretation of Cartagena's History.
* The Castle of Lorca, also known as the Fortress of the Sun.
Cultural Tourism
Major tourist destinations
Murcia Cathedral.
* Murcia, the capital city offers the facilities, equipment and services of a large city. It is the seventh largest Spanish city by population with approximately 439,000 inhabitants in 2009. Murcia's sights include a very tall belfry and its famous Cathedral. Murcia is also a large University town with more than 30,000 students per year. It has more than 2 million km2 of parks and gardens. Murcia has a rich history tied to the Jewish community.
* Cartagena, is the region's second largest city and one of the main Spanish naval bases. Sights include its recently restored Roman Theatre (among its numerous other Roman remains), a number of modernist buildings made or its military fortifications
* Lorca is a large medieval town at the foothills of where its famous castle stands. It is the second largest municipality of Spain by area.
* Caravaca de la Cruz, or simply Caravaca, is one of the five official Holy cities for Catholicism since it is claimed to house of part of the Lignum Crucis, the Holy Cross.
The castles itinerary
Castle of Lorca
The interior of the region of Murcia has plenty of castles and fortifications showing the importance of these frontier lands between the Christian Castile and the Muslim Andalusia. They include:
* Castle of Jumilla, a former Roman fortification turned by the Moors into an Alcazaba. The Castilian Kings and the marquis of Villena gave it its appearance of Gothic royal residence.
* Castle of Moratalla, one of the largest castles of the province, built to defend the town of Moratalla from the invaders from the nearby Muslim Kingdom of Granada.
* Castle of Mula, of Muslim origin, but as many castles, eventually restored and renovated.
* Real Alcázar of Caravaca de la Cruz, where the Holy sanctuary was built, also of Moorish origin, conquered by the Christians and finally home of several noble families.
* Concepción Castle, in Cartagena, built on one of the five hills of the old Carthagena, following the Roman taste. Now is home of the Centre for the Interpretation of Cartagena's History.
* The Castle of Lorca, also known as the Fortress of the Sun.
Demography
The Region of Murcia has a population of 1,424,063 inhabitants (INE 2008, National Statistic Institute of Spain), of which almost a third (30.7%) live in the municipality of Murcia. It makes up 3.0% of the Spanish population. In addition, after Ceuta and Melilla, Murcia has the highest vegetative growth (5.52 by thousand inhabitants) and also the highest birth rate of the country.
* Birth rate (2004): 13.00 per 1,000
* Mortality rate (2004): 7.48 per 1,000
* Life expectancy (2002):
o Men: 76.01 years
o Women: 82.00 years
In the 1991-2005 period the Murcian population grew at by 26.06%, as opposed to the national average of 11.85%. 12.35% of the inhabitants are of foreign origin, according to the INE 2005 census, which is 4% more than the Spanish average. The most notable groups of immigrants are Ecuadorians (33.71% of the total of foreigners), Moroccans (27.13%), Britons (5.95%), Bolivians (4.57%) and Colombians (3.95%).
* Birth rate (2004): 13.00 per 1,000
* Mortality rate (2004): 7.48 per 1,000
* Life expectancy (2002):
o Men: 76.01 years
o Women: 82.00 years
In the 1991-2005 period the Murcian population grew at by 26.06%, as opposed to the national average of 11.85%. 12.35% of the inhabitants are of foreign origin, according to the INE 2005 census, which is 4% more than the Spanish average. The most notable groups of immigrants are Ecuadorians (33.71% of the total of foreigners), Moroccans (27.13%), Britons (5.95%), Bolivians (4.57%) and Colombians (3.95%).
History
Roman Theatre, Cartagena.
The Carthaginians established a permanent trading port on the coast at Cartagena, which the Romans called Carthago Nova. For the Carthaginian traders, the mountainous territory was merely the Iberian hinterland of their seacoast empire. During The Roman period Murcia did not exist but its actual borders could have been inside of the province of Hispania Carthaginensis. Under the Moors, who introduced the large-scale irrigation on which Murcian agriculture depends, the province was known as Todmir; it included, according to Idrisi, the 11th century Arab cartographer based in Sicily, the cities of Orihuela, Lorca, Mula and Chinchilla, Spain.
The Kingdom of Murcia became independent as a taifa centered on the Moorish city of Murcia after the fall of the Omayyad Caliphate of Córdoba (11th century). Moorish Taifa of Murcia included Albacete and part of Almería as well. After the battle of Sagrajas in 1086 the Almoravid dynasty swallowed up the taifas and reunited Islamic Spain. Ferdinand III of Castile received the submission of the Moorish king of Murcia in 1243.
Taifas of Spain.
In the usual way, the Muslims were evicted from the cities, and Ferdinand's heir Alfonso X of Castile, who benefited from rule over a largely depopulated Murcia, divided the border kingdom in three regions for administrative purposes, entrusted respectively to the concejos de realengo, to the ecclesiastical señores seculares, as a reward for their contributions to the Reconquista and to the Military Orders founded in the 11th century. Alfonso annexed the Taifa of Murcia as King of Murcia and Señorio de Cartagena outright in 1266, and it remained technically a vassal kingdom of Spain until the reforms in the liberal constitution of 1812. Murcia became an autonomous region in 1982.
The Castilian conquest of Murcia was significant because it gave the former access to the Mediterranean for the first time and ended the expansion of the Kingdom of Aragon which had been moving south along the coast.
The Carthaginians established a permanent trading port on the coast at Cartagena, which the Romans called Carthago Nova. For the Carthaginian traders, the mountainous territory was merely the Iberian hinterland of their seacoast empire. During The Roman period Murcia did not exist but its actual borders could have been inside of the province of Hispania Carthaginensis. Under the Moors, who introduced the large-scale irrigation on which Murcian agriculture depends, the province was known as Todmir; it included, according to Idrisi, the 11th century Arab cartographer based in Sicily, the cities of Orihuela, Lorca, Mula and Chinchilla, Spain.
The Kingdom of Murcia became independent as a taifa centered on the Moorish city of Murcia after the fall of the Omayyad Caliphate of Córdoba (11th century). Moorish Taifa of Murcia included Albacete and part of Almería as well. After the battle of Sagrajas in 1086 the Almoravid dynasty swallowed up the taifas and reunited Islamic Spain. Ferdinand III of Castile received the submission of the Moorish king of Murcia in 1243.
Taifas of Spain.
In the usual way, the Muslims were evicted from the cities, and Ferdinand's heir Alfonso X of Castile, who benefited from rule over a largely depopulated Murcia, divided the border kingdom in three regions for administrative purposes, entrusted respectively to the concejos de realengo, to the ecclesiastical señores seculares, as a reward for their contributions to the Reconquista and to the Military Orders founded in the 11th century. Alfonso annexed the Taifa of Murcia as King of Murcia and Señorio de Cartagena outright in 1266, and it remained technically a vassal kingdom of Spain until the reforms in the liberal constitution of 1812. Murcia became an autonomous region in 1982.
The Castilian conquest of Murcia was significant because it gave the former access to the Mediterranean for the first time and ended the expansion of the Kingdom of Aragon which had been moving south along the coast.
Hydrography
river
The hydrographic network of the region is made up of the Segura river and its affluents:
* Mundo river (which is born in Albacete), it is the one that contributes to the Segura with the greatest volume.
* Alhárabe river and its affluent, the Benamor.
* Mula river.
* Guadalentín, Sangonera or Reguerón river (which is born upper before Lorca).
Due to the water supplying incapacity of the Segura river basin, contributions to this river basin are made, originated from the basin of the Tajo river, by means of the Tajo-Segura trasvasement.
Seas
satellite view or the mar menor
The greatest natural lake of Spain can be found in the region: the Mar Menor (Small Sea) lagoon. It is a salt water lagoon, adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea. Its special ecological and natural characteristics make the Mar Menor a unique natural place and the largest saltwater lake in Europe. With a semicircular shape, it is separated from the Mediterranean Sea by a sand strip 22 km in length and between 100 and 1200 m wide, known as La Manga del Mar Menor (the Sleeve of the Small Sea). The lagoon has been designated by the United Nations as a Specially Protected Zone of Importance for the Mediterranean. Its coastal perimeter accounts for 73 km of coast in which beaches follow one another with crystal clear shallow water (the maximum depth does not exceed 7m). The lake has an area of 170 square kilometers.
The hydrographic network of the region is made up of the Segura river and its affluents:
* Mundo river (which is born in Albacete), it is the one that contributes to the Segura with the greatest volume.
* Alhárabe river and its affluent, the Benamor.
* Mula river.
* Guadalentín, Sangonera or Reguerón river (which is born upper before Lorca).
Due to the water supplying incapacity of the Segura river basin, contributions to this river basin are made, originated from the basin of the Tajo river, by means of the Tajo-Segura trasvasement.
Seas
satellite view or the mar menor
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The greatest natural lake of Spain can be found in the region: the Mar Menor (Small Sea) lagoon. It is a salt water lagoon, adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea. Its special ecological and natural characteristics make the Mar Menor a unique natural place and the largest saltwater lake in Europe. With a semicircular shape, it is separated from the Mediterranean Sea by a sand strip 22 km in length and between 100 and 1200 m wide, known as La Manga del Mar Menor (the Sleeve of the Small Sea). The lagoon has been designated by the United Nations as a Specially Protected Zone of Importance for the Mediterranean. Its coastal perimeter accounts for 73 km of coast in which beaches follow one another with crystal clear shallow water (the maximum depth does not exceed 7m). The lake has an area of 170 square kilometers.
Climatology
The Region of Murcia enjoys a Mediterranean climate of semi-arid type, with mild winters (an average of 11C in December and January) and warm summers (where the daily maximum regularly exceeds 40°C). The average annual temperature is 18°C.
With little precipitation of about 300 to 350 mm per year, the region has between 120 and 150 days in the year where the sky is totally clear. April and October are the months with the most precipitation, there being frequent heavy downpours in a single day.
The distance to the sea and the relief causes thermal difference between the coast and the interior, mainly in winter. While on the coast the temperature rarely descends below 10º, in the interior regions it does not usually rise above 6º and the precipitation level is higher (up to 600 mm).
The city of Murcia holds the record temperature of the 20th century in Spain. It reached 47.2° on July 4, 1994. The winter of 2005 was the coldest in a long time, with snow even falling on the Murcian coast.
With little precipitation of about 300 to 350 mm per year, the region has between 120 and 150 days in the year where the sky is totally clear. April and October are the months with the most precipitation, there being frequent heavy downpours in a single day.
The distance to the sea and the relief causes thermal difference between the coast and the interior, mainly in winter. While on the coast the temperature rarely descends below 10º, in the interior regions it does not usually rise above 6º and the precipitation level is higher (up to 600 mm).
The city of Murcia holds the record temperature of the 20th century in Spain. It reached 47.2° on July 4, 1994. The winter of 2005 was the coldest in a long time, with snow even falling on the Murcian coast.
Geography
The region is located in the eastern part of the Cordilleras Béticas mountains and it is influenced by their orthography. These mountain ranges are divided as well in the Prebética, Subbética and Penibética mountain ranges (from north to the south).
Sierra de las Moreas
Traditionally it has been considered that the peak of Revolcadores, pertaining to the bulk of the same name, was the highest point in the Region of Murcia, with a height of 2,027 meters; but in measurements of the most recent maps of the SNIG (National Service of Geographic Information of Spain), Revolcadores appears with a height of 1,999 m, and there is a mountain slightly further north of a similar altitude which is more elevated Los Obispos (The Bishops), with an altitude of 2,015 m.
Approximately 27% of the Murcian territory can be described as mountainous, 38% as intramountainous depressions and running valleys, and the remaining 35% as flat lands and plateaux.
murcia region
The region is a major producer of fruits, vegetables, and flowers for Spain and the rest of Europe. Excellent wineries have developed near the towns of Bullas, Yecla, and Jumilla, as well as olive oil near Moratalla.
Murcia is mainly a warm region which has made it very suitable for agriculture. However the precipitation level is low and water supply is a hot subject today since, in addition to the traditional water demand for crops, there is now also a demand of water for the booming tourist developments which take advantage of the mild weather and beaches. Water is supplied by the Segura River or Río Segura and, ever since the 70's, by the Tajo transvasement, a major civil engineering which, under some environmental and sustaintibility restraints, brings water from the Tajo into the Segura.
Murcia is mainly a warm region which has made it very suitable for agriculture. However the precipitation level is low and water supply is a hot subject today since, in addition to the traditional water demand for crops, there is now also a demand of water for the booming tourist developments which take advantage of the mild weather and beaches. Water is supplied by the Segura River or Río Segura and, ever since the 70's, by the Tajo transvasement, a major civil engineering which, under some environmental and sustaintibility restraints, brings water from the Tajo into the Segura.
Región de Murcia
— Autonomous Community —
Flag of the Region of Murcia
Flag Coat-of-arms of Región de Murcia
Coat of arms
Map of the Region of Murcia
Coordinates: 38°00′N 1°00′W / 38°N 1°W / 38; -1Coordinates: 38°00′N 1°00′W / 38°N 1°W / 38; -1
Capital Murcia
Government
- President Ramón Luis Valcárcel Siso (PP)
Area(2.2% of Spain; Ranked 9th)
- Total 11,313 km2 (4,368 sq mi)
Population (2008)
- Total 1,424,063
- Density 125.9/km2 (326/sq mi)
- Pop. rank 10th
- Percent 3.0% of Spain
Official languages Spanish;
Statute of Autonomy June 9, 1982
Parliament Cortes Generales
Congress seats 10 (of 350)
Senate seats 4 (of 264)
The Autonomous Community of the Region of Murcia (Spanish: Comunidad Autónoma de la Región de Murcia, IPA: [ˈmurθja]) is one of Spain's seventeen autonomous communities. It is located in the southeast of the country, between Andalusia and Valencian Community, on the Mediterranean coast.
The autonomous community consists of a single province (region), unlike most autonomous communities, which have several provinces within the same region. Because of this, the autonomous community and the province are operated as one unit of government. The city of Murcia is the capital of the Region, and seat of government organs, except for the parliament (Regional Assembly), which is in Cartagena. The autonomous community and province is subdivided in municipalities.
The Region of Murcia is bordered by Andalucía (the provinces of Almería and Granada); Castilla-La Mancha (the province of Albacete), which was historically connected to Murcia until 1833; the Valencian Community (province of Alicante); and the Mediterranean Sea. The highest mountain is Revolcadores (2015 m).
The community measures 11,313 km² and has a population of 1.4 million, of whom one-third live in the capital.
Flag of the Region of Murcia
Flag Coat-of-arms of Región de Murcia
Coat of arms
Map of the Region of Murcia
Coordinates: 38°00′N 1°00′W / 38°N 1°W / 38; -1Coordinates: 38°00′N 1°00′W / 38°N 1°W / 38; -1
Capital Murcia
Government
- President Ramón Luis Valcárcel Siso (PP)
Area(2.2% of Spain; Ranked 9th)
- Total 11,313 km2 (4,368 sq mi)
Population (2008)
- Total 1,424,063
- Density 125.9/km2 (326/sq mi)
- Pop. rank 10th
- Percent 3.0% of Spain
Official languages Spanish;
Statute of Autonomy June 9, 1982
Parliament Cortes Generales
Congress seats 10 (of 350)
Senate seats 4 (of 264)
The Autonomous Community of the Region of Murcia (Spanish: Comunidad Autónoma de la Región de Murcia, IPA: [ˈmurθja]) is one of Spain's seventeen autonomous communities. It is located in the southeast of the country, between Andalusia and Valencian Community, on the Mediterranean coast.
The autonomous community consists of a single province (region), unlike most autonomous communities, which have several provinces within the same region. Because of this, the autonomous community and the province are operated as one unit of government. The city of Murcia is the capital of the Region, and seat of government organs, except for the parliament (Regional Assembly), which is in Cartagena. The autonomous community and province is subdivided in municipalities.
The Region of Murcia is bordered by Andalucía (the provinces of Almería and Granada); Castilla-La Mancha (the province of Albacete), which was historically connected to Murcia until 1833; the Valencian Community (province of Alicante); and the Mediterranean Sea. The highest mountain is Revolcadores (2015 m).
The community measures 11,313 km² and has a population of 1.4 million, of whom one-third live in the capital.
murcia average temperature
The average annual temperature here is 17ºC and the average during the summer is above 21ºC. The winters are very mild, very rarely falling below 10ºC. Rain is also rare here. With over 3000 hours of sunshine a year and the mild climate, the water here can reach 30º in August.
The coast of the Mar Menor is flanked by small towns, in the past homes to fishermen and today, tourist enclaves. San Pedro del Pinatar in the north covers 21.7sq.km and has 15,200 inhabitants. This can swell to 60,000 in the summer months. Below this is San Javier with over 20,000 residents.
The coast of the Mar Menor is flanked by small towns, in the past homes to fishermen and today, tourist enclaves. San Pedro del Pinatar in the north covers 21.7sq.km and has 15,200 inhabitants. This can swell to 60,000 in the summer months. Below this is San Javier with over 20,000 residents.
other places of interest
Murcia
The regional capital and University City on the river Segura is around 40 minutes away by car. This vibrant city was founded by the Moors in 825AD and boasts a beautiful Cathedral and University, as well as Botanic Gardens, Museums and other historic buildings around its narrow, but characterful streets. The municipal Casino on Calle Traperia might look like a gentleman’s club from the outside, but it’s open to the general public - just ask the commissionaire for a look around and he will gladly oblige.
Shops include El Corte Ingles, (the Spanish equivalent of Selfridges or Fenwicks etc) and numerous designer label shops on the Calles Traperia and Plateria, dozens of great restaurants and a lively nightlife, especially during fiestas and carnivals.
In recent EEC research, the region of Murcia was singled out as the most economically dynamic in Spain and this is being reflected in the rapid development of Murcia as a tourist and cultural destination.
For lovers of nature, the Sierra Espuna National Park is 25-30 minutes drive away. Also nearby on a hillside about 5 miles from Murcia is the ancient Santuario de la Fuensanta, the home of Murcia’s patron saint.
Cartagena
Head south for about 25kms and you will come to Spain’s oldest port. Cartagena is one of Spain’s oldest cities, and still of major maritime importance to Spain, both commercially and militarily. A multitude of civilisations have left their mark on the city as numerous archaeological sites and museums will testify. In the heart of the city is a modern shopping area, which spills down past the tapas bars to the recently revitalised harbour. Here you will find the World’s oldest submarine on display, built in 1884 by a local man Isaac Peral.
Santiago de la Ribera & Lo Pagan
Two traditional Spanish seaside towns at the Northern end of the Mar Menor. The beach of Santiago de la Ribera is lined by tall palm trees along the promenade and there are numerous shops, bars and cafes to explore. There is also a new out of town shopping centre called Dos Mares on the outskirts of Santiago de la Ribera, whilst Lo Pagan has a lively fish market on the Esplanade every morning except Sunday.
La Manga Club
Just a 20 minute drive from Los Alcazares is the world famous resort of La Manga, which boasts 3 championship golf courses, 28 tennis courts and a football academy set in a 1400 acre corner of the Costa Calida. It also contains the 5 star Regency Hyatt Hotel where the rich and famous spend their vacations. Look carefully and you might some premier league footballers or a TV star. La Manga is where the BBC series ‘Superstars’ was filmed.
Cabo de Palos
Immediately recognisable by its famous lighthouse, Cabo de Palos is situated at the mainland end of the La Manga strip around a quaint harbour. It has plenty of bars and seafood restaurants and a great view of La Manga. On Sundays there is a market, where you can find plenty of fresh local produce and other bargains. For diving enthusiasts, the Hormigas Islands near Cabo de Palos have been declared a Marine Reserve due to their exceptional beauty and the conservation of the sea floor, but they are also acknowledged by scuba divers as being one of Spain’s premier dive sites, due to the large number of unfortunate ships that have come to grief in the rocky waters around the area.
Orihuela & Orihuela Coast
About 45 minutes North East of Los Alcazares is the city of Orihuela. In centuries past, Orihuela was the Political and administrative capital of the region and still displays many remnants of its proud cultural and religious heritage. Inland from the coast, Orihuela is one of those cities that doesn’t look much from the outskirts, but which blossoms on closer inspection, with a medieval centre stuffed full of historic treasures. Every week in July they stage a mock battle in remembrance of the battles between the Moors and Christians. There are still lots of traditional narrow streets, plus bars and a busy market for you to browse. The Orihuela Costa boasts the beaches at La Zenia and Cabo Roig, plus the marinas at Campoamor and Pilar de la Horredada as well as 3 of the Costa Blanca’s most popular golf courses at Campoamor, Villamartin and Las Ramblas.
Lorca
About 1 hour West of Los Alcazares, Lorca, Spain’s largest town, is a lively and busy place all year round and it Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations are the most lavish in Murcia. Huddled around the ruins of its castle, Lorca retains many beautiful buildings such as the Collegiate Church of San Patricio and impressive town houses and mansions that remind us of it’s opulent past. Lorca also plays host to an annual Rock Festival, Lorca Rock, featuring bands such as Iron Maiden, the Scorpions, Slayer, Lacuna Coil and Dream Theatre etc.
The regional capital and University City on the river Segura is around 40 minutes away by car. This vibrant city was founded by the Moors in 825AD and boasts a beautiful Cathedral and University, as well as Botanic Gardens, Museums and other historic buildings around its narrow, but characterful streets. The municipal Casino on Calle Traperia might look like a gentleman’s club from the outside, but it’s open to the general public - just ask the commissionaire for a look around and he will gladly oblige.
Shops include El Corte Ingles, (the Spanish equivalent of Selfridges or Fenwicks etc) and numerous designer label shops on the Calles Traperia and Plateria, dozens of great restaurants and a lively nightlife, especially during fiestas and carnivals.
In recent EEC research, the region of Murcia was singled out as the most economically dynamic in Spain and this is being reflected in the rapid development of Murcia as a tourist and cultural destination.
For lovers of nature, the Sierra Espuna National Park is 25-30 minutes drive away. Also nearby on a hillside about 5 miles from Murcia is the ancient Santuario de la Fuensanta, the home of Murcia’s patron saint.
Cartagena
Head south for about 25kms and you will come to Spain’s oldest port. Cartagena is one of Spain’s oldest cities, and still of major maritime importance to Spain, both commercially and militarily. A multitude of civilisations have left their mark on the city as numerous archaeological sites and museums will testify. In the heart of the city is a modern shopping area, which spills down past the tapas bars to the recently revitalised harbour. Here you will find the World’s oldest submarine on display, built in 1884 by a local man Isaac Peral.
Santiago de la Ribera & Lo Pagan
Two traditional Spanish seaside towns at the Northern end of the Mar Menor. The beach of Santiago de la Ribera is lined by tall palm trees along the promenade and there are numerous shops, bars and cafes to explore. There is also a new out of town shopping centre called Dos Mares on the outskirts of Santiago de la Ribera, whilst Lo Pagan has a lively fish market on the Esplanade every morning except Sunday.
La Manga Club
Just a 20 minute drive from Los Alcazares is the world famous resort of La Manga, which boasts 3 championship golf courses, 28 tennis courts and a football academy set in a 1400 acre corner of the Costa Calida. It also contains the 5 star Regency Hyatt Hotel where the rich and famous spend their vacations. Look carefully and you might some premier league footballers or a TV star. La Manga is where the BBC series ‘Superstars’ was filmed.
Cabo de Palos
Immediately recognisable by its famous lighthouse, Cabo de Palos is situated at the mainland end of the La Manga strip around a quaint harbour. It has plenty of bars and seafood restaurants and a great view of La Manga. On Sundays there is a market, where you can find plenty of fresh local produce and other bargains. For diving enthusiasts, the Hormigas Islands near Cabo de Palos have been declared a Marine Reserve due to their exceptional beauty and the conservation of the sea floor, but they are also acknowledged by scuba divers as being one of Spain’s premier dive sites, due to the large number of unfortunate ships that have come to grief in the rocky waters around the area.
Orihuela & Orihuela Coast
About 45 minutes North East of Los Alcazares is the city of Orihuela. In centuries past, Orihuela was the Political and administrative capital of the region and still displays many remnants of its proud cultural and religious heritage. Inland from the coast, Orihuela is one of those cities that doesn’t look much from the outskirts, but which blossoms on closer inspection, with a medieval centre stuffed full of historic treasures. Every week in July they stage a mock battle in remembrance of the battles between the Moors and Christians. There are still lots of traditional narrow streets, plus bars and a busy market for you to browse. The Orihuela Costa boasts the beaches at La Zenia and Cabo Roig, plus the marinas at Campoamor and Pilar de la Horredada as well as 3 of the Costa Blanca’s most popular golf courses at Campoamor, Villamartin and Las Ramblas.
Lorca
About 1 hour West of Los Alcazares, Lorca, Spain’s largest town, is a lively and busy place all year round and it Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations are the most lavish in Murcia. Huddled around the ruins of its castle, Lorca retains many beautiful buildings such as the Collegiate Church of San Patricio and impressive town houses and mansions that remind us of it’s opulent past. Lorca also plays host to an annual Rock Festival, Lorca Rock, featuring bands such as Iron Maiden, the Scorpions, Slayer, Lacuna Coil and Dream Theatre etc.
Fiestas and Carnivals
The Spanish don't need much of a reason to have a party and/or set off some fireworks and there's hardly a month goes by during the year when there isn't a celebration of some kind or another going on.
Here are some of the main public holidays and celebrations, although there are others.
January 5th – Festividad de Los Reyes Magos (The Festival of the 3 Kings arrival in Bethlehem ) Celebrated in most towns and cities across the whole of Spain .
February – Los Alcazares, along with most of the towns on the Mar Menor has it's Annual Carnival. The most historically spectacular Carnival in the Murcia Region take place an hour down the coast in the town of Aguilas , where the whole town comes out to celebrate and to choose their Carnival Queen.
March 24 th – 27 th. The Tamborada Festival in the Murcian towns of Moratalla and Mula celebrates the Passion of the Christ with the pounding of a thousand drums over three crazy days in March.
Easter – Semana Santa (Saints week or Holy Week)
Celebrated across the whole of Spain , but easily the biggest Semana Santa celebrations in the region are in the Capital Murcia. Smaller, but no less colourful festivities take place in nearby Cartagena and San Pedro del Pinatar.
April - The Burial of the Sardine , the climax of the Spring festivities, is Murcia 's wackiest night of the year. On the first Saturday in April, and looking like a cross between Rio's famous carnival and ‘It's a Knockout' a crazy cavalcade of giants and big-heads, torch-bearers and entertainers, demons and Brazilian samba groups escort a fleet of some twenty floats, which will throw hundreds of thousands of euros worth of toys and gifts into the crowd in the space of just a few hours.
Over the previous days, there are marches through the streets with brass bands and on the night of the eve of the Burial, the Testament of Doña Sardina (Ms Sardine) is read from the balcony of the Town Hall. The fiesta ends in the early hours of the morning, when, a papier-mâché effigy of the Lenten sardine is burnt in the Plano de San Francisco amid public rejoicing.
May – La Manga Fiesta incorporating the La Manga Ladies Windsurfing Championships.
1st – 5th May. The Festival of the Holy Cross in Caravaca de la Cruz includes the famous ‘ Race of the Wine Horses' where the horses used in the Vineyards are raced through the streets to the Castle at the top of the town.
July – The San Javier Music Festival runs throughout the whole of July featuring leading Jazz & Blues artists, but there are some rock, pop & folk acts appearing as well from time to time.
The Festividad de la Virgin del Carmen (The Festival of the Virgin Madonna of the Sea) includes street processions, fireworks and the symbolic burning of an artificial castle as well as a procession of boats which scatter flowers on the sea. Celebrations of this festival take place on the 16 th in Los Alcazares, Santiago de la Ribera, Lo Pagan, Cabo de Palos and Cartagena and again on the 25 th in Santiago de la Ribera and Cartagena .
August – A month-long International Festival of Theatre, Music & Dance takes place in San Javier.
A Flamenco Festival takes place in the former mining town of La Union .
There is a folklore festival in Cartagena and there is week long Festival of La Huerta (The Market Garden) in Los Alcazares.
September – In Cartagena you can watch colourful mock battles in the street re-enacting the struggle between the Carthaginians and the Romans .
October – From 8 th to 13 th October, Los Alcazares has a week long celebration of the town's municipal autonomy, during which there are fireworks displays, processions, the Mar Menor Surfari Windsurfing competition and the ‘Caldero' Festival where the local fisherman light fires on the beach and cook their catch in hanging cauldrons for the consumption of the public.
November – Cartagena Jazz Festival takes place.
December – on the 3 rd December there is the Fiesta de San Francisco de San Javier (Saint Francis of San Javier) during which there are sports, games, exhibitions and concerts.
Here are some of the main public holidays and celebrations, although there are others.
January 5th – Festividad de Los Reyes Magos (The Festival of the 3 Kings arrival in Bethlehem ) Celebrated in most towns and cities across the whole of Spain .
February – Los Alcazares, along with most of the towns on the Mar Menor has it's Annual Carnival. The most historically spectacular Carnival in the Murcia Region take place an hour down the coast in the town of Aguilas , where the whole town comes out to celebrate and to choose their Carnival Queen.
March 24 th – 27 th. The Tamborada Festival in the Murcian towns of Moratalla and Mula celebrates the Passion of the Christ with the pounding of a thousand drums over three crazy days in March.
Easter – Semana Santa (Saints week or Holy Week)
Celebrated across the whole of Spain , but easily the biggest Semana Santa celebrations in the region are in the Capital Murcia. Smaller, but no less colourful festivities take place in nearby Cartagena and San Pedro del Pinatar.
April - The Burial of the Sardine , the climax of the Spring festivities, is Murcia 's wackiest night of the year. On the first Saturday in April, and looking like a cross between Rio's famous carnival and ‘It's a Knockout' a crazy cavalcade of giants and big-heads, torch-bearers and entertainers, demons and Brazilian samba groups escort a fleet of some twenty floats, which will throw hundreds of thousands of euros worth of toys and gifts into the crowd in the space of just a few hours.
Over the previous days, there are marches through the streets with brass bands and on the night of the eve of the Burial, the Testament of Doña Sardina (Ms Sardine) is read from the balcony of the Town Hall. The fiesta ends in the early hours of the morning, when, a papier-mâché effigy of the Lenten sardine is burnt in the Plano de San Francisco amid public rejoicing.
May – La Manga Fiesta incorporating the La Manga Ladies Windsurfing Championships.
1st – 5th May. The Festival of the Holy Cross in Caravaca de la Cruz includes the famous ‘ Race of the Wine Horses' where the horses used in the Vineyards are raced through the streets to the Castle at the top of the town.
July – The San Javier Music Festival runs throughout the whole of July featuring leading Jazz & Blues artists, but there are some rock, pop & folk acts appearing as well from time to time.
The Festividad de la Virgin del Carmen (The Festival of the Virgin Madonna of the Sea) includes street processions, fireworks and the symbolic burning of an artificial castle as well as a procession of boats which scatter flowers on the sea. Celebrations of this festival take place on the 16 th in Los Alcazares, Santiago de la Ribera, Lo Pagan, Cabo de Palos and Cartagena and again on the 25 th in Santiago de la Ribera and Cartagena .
August – A month-long International Festival of Theatre, Music & Dance takes place in San Javier.
A Flamenco Festival takes place in the former mining town of La Union .
There is a folklore festival in Cartagena and there is week long Festival of La Huerta (The Market Garden) in Los Alcazares.
September – In Cartagena you can watch colourful mock battles in the street re-enacting the struggle between the Carthaginians and the Romans .
October – From 8 th to 13 th October, Los Alcazares has a week long celebration of the town's municipal autonomy, during which there are fireworks displays, processions, the Mar Menor Surfari Windsurfing competition and the ‘Caldero' Festival where the local fisherman light fires on the beach and cook their catch in hanging cauldrons for the consumption of the public.
November – Cartagena Jazz Festival takes place.
December – on the 3 rd December there is the Fiesta de San Francisco de San Javier (Saint Francis of San Javier) during which there are sports, games, exhibitions and concerts.
Museums
Los Alcazares
Aeronautics Museaum, Avda de la Linertad, 37 Tel: 968 582 107
Cartegana
Cartegena Archaeological Museum, Ramon y Cajal Tel: 968 539 027
Cartegena Naval Museum, Menendez Pelayo Tel: 968 127 138
Sea Archeology Museum - Submarine Research National Centre, Dique Navidad Tel: 968 127 166
La Union
Mine Museum, Pza Liceo, Edif, del Liceo do Obreros Tel: 968 541 463
Minesongs Festical Museum, Noria Tel: 968 541 614
San Pedro Del Pinatar
Sea Collection Museum, Casa de la Cultura Tel: 968 181 920
Aeronautics Museaum, Avda de la Linertad, 37 Tel: 968 582 107
Cartegana
Cartegena Archaeological Museum, Ramon y Cajal Tel: 968 539 027
Cartegena Naval Museum, Menendez Pelayo Tel: 968 127 138
Sea Archeology Museum - Submarine Research National Centre, Dique Navidad Tel: 968 127 166
La Union
Mine Museum, Pza Liceo, Edif, del Liceo do Obreros Tel: 968 541 463
Minesongs Festical Museum, Noria Tel: 968 541 614
San Pedro Del Pinatar
Sea Collection Museum, Casa de la Cultura Tel: 968 181 920
other activities
Other activities
Scuba diving - For diving enthusiasts, the Hormigas Islands near Cabo de Palos have been declared a Marine Reserve due to their exceptional beauty and the conservation of the sea floor, but they are also acknowledged by scuba divers as being one of Spain’s premier dive sites. There are dive centres along the Costa Calida and Costa Blanca Coasts at Mazzaron, Aguilas, due to the large number of unfortunate ships that have come to grief in the rocky waters around the area.
Other Water sports - The shallow waters and warm winds of the Mar Menor make it ideal for both Windsurfing and Kite boarding, both of which can be hired from various shops and schools along the Mar Menor shoreline. Jet skiing is also very popular and these can also be hired from ABC La Manga sports centre. Pedallos can be hired from the centre of Los Alcazares.
Water Park - Aquapolis Fun Park near Torrevieja, open from 15th June to 15th September, is an excellent fun day out for all the family, providing a welcome opportunity to do some serious cooling off during the height of the summer when the mercury hits the top of the glass in the thermometer. 30 minute drive.
Mar Menor Ferry - Between 15th June-15th September, the Mar Menor Ferry picks up from the pier in the centre of town and visits other towns and the islands of the Mar Menor, at which you can stop off and enjoy a delicious lunch of freshly caught and barbecued sardines.
Horse Riding - Horse riding stables on the airport road past Avenida Justo Quesada, located on the right hand side past the final row of white houses.
Go-karting - Located on the airport road. 5 minutes drive
Scuba diving - For diving enthusiasts, the Hormigas Islands near Cabo de Palos have been declared a Marine Reserve due to their exceptional beauty and the conservation of the sea floor, but they are also acknowledged by scuba divers as being one of Spain’s premier dive sites. There are dive centres along the Costa Calida and Costa Blanca Coasts at Mazzaron, Aguilas, due to the large number of unfortunate ships that have come to grief in the rocky waters around the area.
Other Water sports - The shallow waters and warm winds of the Mar Menor make it ideal for both Windsurfing and Kite boarding, both of which can be hired from various shops and schools along the Mar Menor shoreline. Jet skiing is also very popular and these can also be hired from ABC La Manga sports centre. Pedallos can be hired from the centre of Los Alcazares.
Water Park - Aquapolis Fun Park near Torrevieja, open from 15th June to 15th September, is an excellent fun day out for all the family, providing a welcome opportunity to do some serious cooling off during the height of the summer when the mercury hits the top of the glass in the thermometer. 30 minute drive.
Mar Menor Ferry - Between 15th June-15th September, the Mar Menor Ferry picks up from the pier in the centre of town and visits other towns and the islands of the Mar Menor, at which you can stop off and enjoy a delicious lunch of freshly caught and barbecued sardines.
Horse Riding - Horse riding stables on the airport road past Avenida Justo Quesada, located on the right hand side past the final row of white houses.
Go-karting - Located on the airport road. 5 minutes drive
Popular Bars and Nightlife
Popular Bars
Fitzers -Los Narajos, 5 mins walk
The Celtic - Mercadona precinct, Avenda rio nalon (opposite the indian) 968574882. 10 mins walk
Gringos - Mexican bar / dinner, Oasis centre. 5 mins walk
Bygons - Oasis centre Tel: 968171541. 5 mins walk
Nightlife
El Buho -Club for the young at heart. Follow the main road through the Los Alcazares high street and look for a neon sign EL BUHO, open 8 till late. 10 mins walk
Cocktail bar Los Alcazares.Just of the high street. 15 mins walk
Karaoke - The international Oasis centre, Amys Oasis centre. 5 mins walk
La Manga Club -The Piano bar, Spikes bar both in the Hyatt Hotel. A good night out but can be expensive. Also it is 25 km away so taxi needed.
Most bars have karaoke in the summer.
Fitzers -Los Narajos, 5 mins walk
The Celtic - Mercadona precinct, Avenda rio nalon (opposite the indian) 968574882. 10 mins walk
Gringos - Mexican bar / dinner, Oasis centre. 5 mins walk
Bygons - Oasis centre Tel: 968171541. 5 mins walk
Nightlife
El Buho -Club for the young at heart. Follow the main road through the Los Alcazares high street and look for a neon sign EL BUHO, open 8 till late. 10 mins walk
Cocktail bar Los Alcazares.Just of the high street. 15 mins walk
Karaoke - The international Oasis centre, Amys Oasis centre. 5 mins walk
La Manga Club -The Piano bar, Spikes bar both in the Hyatt Hotel. A good night out but can be expensive. Also it is 25 km away so taxi needed.
Most bars have karaoke in the summer.
Restaurants
Within walking distance there are a plethora of restaurants to suit all tastes. Generally food and drink are very good value - even in some of the swankiest restaurants.
Beach bars - there are a host of beach bars running along the coast which provide everything from snacks to traditional Spanish tapas. All the establishments mentioned are local, popular and friendly places.
Most have entertainment, serve food and have TV for all sports. 10 mins walk +
Cocina Asiatica - An exceptional asian restaurant providing Thai and Japanese dishes. London style but at local prices. 5-10 mins walk
Hindustani Roti, - Stylish Indian restaurant. Mercadona precinct Avendia Rio Nalon. Tel: 968583156. 5-10mins walk
Angela pizzeria and restaurant - Pizzeria, Mercadona precinct, Calle Rio Piguena. Tel: 968574288 5-10 mins walk
Chino Mediterraneo - Chinese restaurant, Oasis centre LA Tel: 968582132. 5 mins Walk
Roblemar - A spanish restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. A must visit. < 5 mins walk
El Patio - Spanish Restaurant with a huge furnace for cooking steaks etc. Has a real interesting atmosphere. Recommend you try cooking the Ox on the hot granite plate. You can cook your own meat just to the way you like it. A mini BBQ! Located opposite the Mercadona Precinct. 10 mins walk
Beach bars - there are a host of beach bars running along the coast which provide everything from snacks to traditional Spanish tapas. All the establishments mentioned are local, popular and friendly places.
Most have entertainment, serve food and have TV for all sports. 10 mins walk +
Cocina Asiatica - An exceptional asian restaurant providing Thai and Japanese dishes. London style but at local prices. 5-10 mins walk
Hindustani Roti, - Stylish Indian restaurant. Mercadona precinct Avendia Rio Nalon. Tel: 968583156. 5-10mins walk
Angela pizzeria and restaurant - Pizzeria, Mercadona precinct, Calle Rio Piguena. Tel: 968574288 5-10 mins walk
Chino Mediterraneo - Chinese restaurant, Oasis centre LA Tel: 968582132. 5 mins Walk
Roblemar - A spanish restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. A must visit. < 5 mins walk
El Patio - Spanish Restaurant with a huge furnace for cooking steaks etc. Has a real interesting atmosphere. Recommend you try cooking the Ox on the hot granite plate. You can cook your own meat just to the way you like it. A mini BBQ! Located opposite the Mercadona Precinct. 10 mins walk
Walking / Cycling
There are many hidden treasures for those that like to explore.
Sierra Minera - (The mining Hills) - La Union hills are now a forgotten chunk of melancholy dressed in ochres, greens and yellows under the silhouette of the old wheelhouse. With the 19th Century in full swing and mining living it's euphoric boom, this area experienced a real gold rush. The trip on foot / bike is around 24 kilometres long with a maximum ascent of 240 metres.
Calblaque to Cala Reona - Calblanque is one of the few areas along the Murcian coast that still conserves its natural state to a great extent. This area is made up of an untouched coastline with arid mountains, fossil dunes, long golden beaches and a beautiful blue sea and was declared a Regional Nature Reserve in 1987.
The Greenhouse Route - Los Alcazares - San Javier - Los Alcazares - A bike ride on the flat inland, crossing fruit and vegetable crops and immense fields of greenhouses. Length 22 kilometres.
Ascent to Cabezo de la Fuente (Fuente Hillock) - This is an exceptional vantage point at a height of 342 metres, offering the best views of the Mar Menor. From this summit you can view the complete morphology of this unique area.
Sierra Minera - (The mining Hills) - La Union hills are now a forgotten chunk of melancholy dressed in ochres, greens and yellows under the silhouette of the old wheelhouse. With the 19th Century in full swing and mining living it's euphoric boom, this area experienced a real gold rush. The trip on foot / bike is around 24 kilometres long with a maximum ascent of 240 metres.
Calblaque to Cala Reona - Calblanque is one of the few areas along the Murcian coast that still conserves its natural state to a great extent. This area is made up of an untouched coastline with arid mountains, fossil dunes, long golden beaches and a beautiful blue sea and was declared a Regional Nature Reserve in 1987.
The Greenhouse Route - Los Alcazares - San Javier - Los Alcazares - A bike ride on the flat inland, crossing fruit and vegetable crops and immense fields of greenhouses. Length 22 kilometres.
Ascent to Cabezo de la Fuente (Fuente Hillock) - This is an exceptional vantage point at a height of 342 metres, offering the best views of the Mar Menor. From this summit you can view the complete morphology of this unique area.
Murcia theme park?? maybe!
With 73 kilometers of coastline, beautiful sandy beaches, cosmopolitan cities, scenic mountain landscapes and an abundance of luxury golf resorts, including La Manga and the Polaris World developments, all offering an abundance of luxury villas with pools and golf apartments; Murcia's Costa Calida in Spain is becoming a firm favourite with British holidaymakers and starting to compete with its coastal cousins, the Costa Blanca, Costa Almeria and Costa del Sol.
Paramount Theme ParkOffering 300 days of sunshine a year, shallow waters and the Mar Menor's sandy beaches, British families flock to Murcia to enjoy its fabulous year-round climate and sultry summer temperatures, as well as the Spanish region's affordable luxuries such as the superb family villas with pools available at over 16 newly developed golf resorts in the area.
Although many of us would be happy relaxing with a glass of wine and enjoying evening BBQs or reading a book beside a villa's pool; recently there has been much speculation that Paramount Pictures, the producers of Hollywood movie hits like Titanic, Gladiator, Iron Man 1 & 2, Shrek, Tomb Raider and the Indiana Jones films is looking at the region of Murcia in Spain as a potential European location for a giant theme park that could compete directly with Disneyland Paris in France.
Even though these plans are not yet set in stone, the interest is clearly there as Spain's Minister of Culture, Pedro Cruz and Ramon Luis Valcarcel, the President of Murcia, have been in talks with Michael Bartok, the Executive Vice President of the licensing division of Paramount Pictures.
With talk of feasibility studies underway to consider a vast theme park project in this southern Spanish region, many existing villa and holiday home owners have been delighted by the prospect of a major theme park development in the region, which would, of course, secure their future property investments, as well as guarantee a steady influx of holidaymakers for the current 'seasonal' summer holiday rentals industry in Murcia.
Aside from an obvious environmental impact that would have to be considered very carefully, Murcia could become, as many homeowners already believe, a truly year-round holiday destination that has the potential to provide the perfect recipe for all-round family fun and entertainment. With many apparent 'Florida-type' similarities already in existence including splendid golf courses, luxury apartments and villas with pools, 5 star hotel complexes, pampering spas, child-safe beaches, good transportation links and brilliant weather and beaches...many holidaymakers already think there is a distinct need for more family orientated entertainment and holiday home owners are simply asking, why would theme park developers not want to come?
With the new International Corvera Airport, due to open 2011, as well as the new high-speed AVE rail lines currently under construction, many property agents and villa owners in Murcia are speculating that something will happen in the region. On the other hand however, could talk of Paramount Pictures coming to Murcia; a region that has been severely hit by the worldwide recession and property crash, simply be rumour and designed to give villa homeowners and investors a false sense of security?
One thing's for sure, provided the environmental impact on the region can be vigilantly monitored, such an extensive investment project in Murcia will provide a much-welcomed boost for the local economy, in terms for provided jobs and steady growth, as well as re-assure property owners at Polaris World Golf Resorts who have purchased golf holiday apartments or villas with pools in Murcia.
Paramount Theme ParkOffering 300 days of sunshine a year, shallow waters and the Mar Menor's sandy beaches, British families flock to Murcia to enjoy its fabulous year-round climate and sultry summer temperatures, as well as the Spanish region's affordable luxuries such as the superb family villas with pools available at over 16 newly developed golf resorts in the area.
Although many of us would be happy relaxing with a glass of wine and enjoying evening BBQs or reading a book beside a villa's pool; recently there has been much speculation that Paramount Pictures, the producers of Hollywood movie hits like Titanic, Gladiator, Iron Man 1 & 2, Shrek, Tomb Raider and the Indiana Jones films is looking at the region of Murcia in Spain as a potential European location for a giant theme park that could compete directly with Disneyland Paris in France.
Even though these plans are not yet set in stone, the interest is clearly there as Spain's Minister of Culture, Pedro Cruz and Ramon Luis Valcarcel, the President of Murcia, have been in talks with Michael Bartok, the Executive Vice President of the licensing division of Paramount Pictures.
With talk of feasibility studies underway to consider a vast theme park project in this southern Spanish region, many existing villa and holiday home owners have been delighted by the prospect of a major theme park development in the region, which would, of course, secure their future property investments, as well as guarantee a steady influx of holidaymakers for the current 'seasonal' summer holiday rentals industry in Murcia.
Aside from an obvious environmental impact that would have to be considered very carefully, Murcia could become, as many homeowners already believe, a truly year-round holiday destination that has the potential to provide the perfect recipe for all-round family fun and entertainment. With many apparent 'Florida-type' similarities already in existence including splendid golf courses, luxury apartments and villas with pools, 5 star hotel complexes, pampering spas, child-safe beaches, good transportation links and brilliant weather and beaches...many holidaymakers already think there is a distinct need for more family orientated entertainment and holiday home owners are simply asking, why would theme park developers not want to come?
With the new International Corvera Airport, due to open 2011, as well as the new high-speed AVE rail lines currently under construction, many property agents and villa owners in Murcia are speculating that something will happen in the region. On the other hand however, could talk of Paramount Pictures coming to Murcia; a region that has been severely hit by the worldwide recession and property crash, simply be rumour and designed to give villa homeowners and investors a false sense of security?
One thing's for sure, provided the environmental impact on the region can be vigilantly monitored, such an extensive investment project in Murcia will provide a much-welcomed boost for the local economy, in terms for provided jobs and steady growth, as well as re-assure property owners at Polaris World Golf Resorts who have purchased golf holiday apartments or villas with pools in Murcia.
Roxanne Cafe
Description:
Offering food and drink from around the world this cafe is open seven days a week from 12:00 till late. Child friendly and playing a wide variety of music. Situated on Avenida del Puerto No.2 Cabo de Palos, Cartagena 30370, Murcia.
Contact Details:
· Send an e-mail to Roxanne Cafe
e-mail: (visit http://costacalida.angloinfo.com/afdetail.asp?Rec=6976 to send a mail)
Tel: 968 145 513 / 620 250 376
cartagena 33
Description:
Restaurant offering breakfast, lunch and dinner with international cuisine. Open Monday to Saturday 08:00-23:00. Free courtesy coach home for 4 or more people within a 40km radius of Cartagena. Calle Carlos 111, 22 Cartagena, Murcia.
Contact Details:
Tel: 968 080 849
Restaurant offering breakfast, lunch and dinner with international cuisine. Open Monday to Saturday 08:00-23:00. Free courtesy coach home for 4 or more people within a 40km radius of Cartagena. Calle Carlos 111, 22 Cartagena, Murcia.
Contact Details:
Tel: 968 080 849
Cornish Pride
Description:
Take away bakers offering traditional cornish pasties and savoury slices, homemade fruit pies and crumbles and a large selection of cakes and scones all baked daily. Open Monday to Friday 10:00-17:30 and Saturday 10:00-15:00. Main street, El Pareton.
Contact Details:
Tel: 696 724 123
International: +34 696 724 123
Take away bakers offering traditional cornish pasties and savoury slices, homemade fruit pies and crumbles and a large selection of cakes and scones all baked daily. Open Monday to Friday 10:00-17:30 and Saturday 10:00-15:00. Main street, El Pareton.
Contact Details:
Tel: 696 724 123
International: +34 696 724 123
Big Breakfast Butchers
Description:
Traditional English butchers with mobile barbecue and catering services. Joints, steaks, barbeque meats and British sausages. Based in El Oasis, Los Alcazares, Murcia.
Contact Details:
Tel: 968 170 553
International: +34 968 170 553
Traditional English butchers with mobile barbecue and catering services. Joints, steaks, barbeque meats and British sausages. Based in El Oasis, Los Alcazares, Murcia.
Contact Details:
Tel: 968 170 553
International: +34 968 170 553
Costa Cálida Event: Hotel Bahia - Live Music
Location: Mazarrón
Every Wed, Fri
The hotel is situated by the waters edge between the port of Mazarron and Bolnuevo offering tapas and a la carte menus also menu del dia and a menu de la noche. Live music every Wednesday and Friday nights. Open daily 09:00 to 21:00. Closed Sundays. Further information contact Diane Tel: 968 594 000.
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DAYS NUMBERED FOR CRIME IN SPAIN
Criminal organizations in Spain “know their days are numbered,” said Interior Minister Alfredo Pérez Rubalcaba as he unveiled new figures relating to the fight against organized crime on Wednesday.
Last year the police and Civil Guard arrested 5,881 people and dismantled 561 criminal gangs, 354 of which were broken up completely. Assets and goods totalling over 270 million euros were seized, as were 16,540 kilos of cocaine, 93,038 of hashish, 165 of heroin and 193,331 ecstasy tablets.
Of the dismantled groups, 462 were involved in drug trafficking, 340 in robbery and 117 in crimes against individuals and freedom. Most of those arrested — 2,881 — were Spanish, 868 were from other EU nations and 2,126 came from countries further afield.
Rubalcaba attributed the results to greater specialization and training within the National Police and Civil Guard and the number of agents devoted to fighting criminal networks, which has increased from 3,555 in 2004 to 6,708 in 2009.
“It's good that it is known that we are efficient, that criminals are not going to have a good time here and that the Penal Code is very severe,” he said.
GOLF AUCTION
Monday 30 August – Golf Auction Night at Café Golf San Javier – 8pm start
Do you want to clear out any unused golf gear? Looking for a cheap set of clubs or a bargain? There will be new and second hand clubs, trolleys, balls etc available. If you want to auction any golf item or for further information contact Nike or Neil know by 9 August on 968566448/666766600 or email info@cafegolf.es
Do you want to clear out any unused golf gear? Looking for a cheap set of clubs or a bargain? There will be new and second hand clubs, trolleys, balls etc available. If you want to auction any golf item or for further information contact Nike or Neil know by 9 August on 968566448/666766600 or email info@cafegolf.es
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Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Paquebote restaurant in La Manga
Welcome to Paquebote, his restaurant in La Manga del Mar Menor.
If you want to enjoy good food and amazed with wonderful sunsets, this is his corner.
Have an outdoor terrace with views of the Mar Menor better, air-conditioned dining area for smokers.
We are open all year and our kitchen is at your service all day.
We have in our first floor function room with a capacity for 75 people (communions, christenings, business lunches ...)
Enjoy the finest cuisine with the best environment.
WEBPAGE
If you want to enjoy good food and amazed with wonderful sunsets, this is his corner.
Have an outdoor terrace with views of the Mar Menor better, air-conditioned dining area for smokers.
We are open all year and our kitchen is at your service all day.
We have in our first floor function room with a capacity for 75 people (communions, christenings, business lunches ...)
Enjoy the finest cuisine with the best environment.
WEBPAGE
GUIDE TO MURCIA HOSTELS
A really cheap alternative to staying in a Murcia hotel is to book into a Murcia hostel. Be advised that these hostels are very basic accommodation traditionally sought out by student travelers and backpackers on a budget.
Some hostels in Murcia will require you to sleep in a room with other guests and share bathrooms. In some cases there will be a strict time that you have to be in by which is no good if you want to sample the Murcia nightlife. Needless to say - staying in a Murcia hostel is the cheapest form of accommodation you can find in Murcia.
Three star hotels in Murcia
Three stars are the most popular choice of Murcia hotels as they offer clean, safe accommodation while being affordable to most people. Facilities in your hotel room will include basics such as telephone, hairdryer etc. The three star Murcia hotel may have a swimming pool for your use, a gym and internet access but do check if these hotel facilities are essential to you.
Examples of three star hotels in the city of Murcia:
Hispano 2
Situated right in the city's old quarter, the hotel is just metres from some of Murcia's most symbolic monuments as well as the business area of the city.
The hotel offers good value, well-appointed accommodation with Wi-Fi internet access and a small fridge. There is a recently refurbished restaurant that serves typical Murcian cuisine and a bar great for tapas.
Close by you will find the cathedral, the town hall, the casino and the Romea theatre. It is also conveniently located meaning you can forget about the car and really discover this city.
Hotel Rooms: 35.
Hotel La Cumbre
Hotel located in the highest point of puerto de Mazazarron, on a
hill, where is possible enjoy the most beautiful views in the city. We have comfortable rooms with balcony looking to the sea or to the village, with complete bath T.v, air conditioned, direct phone, safe, etc. restaurant, cafe-bar, leisure saloons, swimming pool for adults an children with large garden areas, parking and garage.
Hotel Rooms: 120.
HOTEL BOOKINGS
Examples of three star hotels in the city of Murcia:
Hispano 2
Situated right in the city's old quarter, the hotel is just metres from some of Murcia's most symbolic monuments as well as the business area of the city.
The hotel offers good value, well-appointed accommodation with Wi-Fi internet access and a small fridge. There is a recently refurbished restaurant that serves typical Murcian cuisine and a bar great for tapas.
Close by you will find the cathedral, the town hall, the casino and the Romea theatre. It is also conveniently located meaning you can forget about the car and really discover this city.
Hotel Rooms: 35.
Hotel La Cumbre
Hotel located in the highest point of puerto de Mazazarron, on a
hill, where is possible enjoy the most beautiful views in the city. We have comfortable rooms with balcony looking to the sea or to the village, with complete bath T.v, air conditioned, direct phone, safe, etc. restaurant, cafe-bar, leisure saloons, swimming pool for adults an children with large garden areas, parking and garage.
Hotel Rooms: 120.
HOTEL BOOKINGS
GUIDE TO MURCIA HOTELS
The city of Murcia is situated on the Costa Calida coast of Spain and is a very popular tourist destination. Finding a hotel in Murcia is not a problem as Murcia has five star hotels to hostels and camping sites. Murcia is known as the Baroque capital of Spain - it has many fine old buildings such as the cathedral and monastery. There are lots of beautiful squares with pedestrianised streets leading off with many designer shops. Try book a hotel in the centre of Murcia so you can enjoy all this on your hotel's doorstep.
Despite Murcia's size you still won't find many international brand-name hotels in Murcia so do take care to read our guide on the hotel star rating system for hotels in Murcia. Having said that Murcia is becoming more and more discovered by tourists so it is growing rapidly and adding more and more hotel accommodation and rooms all the time.
If you are looking for hotel accommodation in Murcia in the peak summer months you may have a problem finding a hotel room so do make your reservation as early as possible. In the off-season you will have a huge choice of hotels and rooms in Murcia so you should get be able to get a cheap hotel deal or bargain.
Consider whether your Murcia hotel has a swimming pool. This is vital in the summer months when temperatures in Murcia can rise above 40 degrees Celsius.
Some Murcia hotels will offer a half board or full board option. These can often be very economical options although Murcia does have a great variety of good restaurants.
When reserving a Murcia hotel do check the cost carefully. Some Murcia hotels include breakfast and other Murcia hotels don't - so do check what is included in your hotel cost and what isn't. Make sure all local Murcia tourist taxes are included so you don't get a shock when you check out of the hotel at the end of your holiday or visit to Murcia.
At the entrance to every Murcia hotel will be a plaque showing the hotel rating according to the Spanish tourist board. This is in the form of stars with a one star Murcia hotel being the most basic hotel standard in Murcia to a five star Murcia hotel being of the highest possible standard.
One star hotels in Murcia are of a very basic standard. This will be the cheapest hotel accommodation in Murcia. Expect a dated decor and possible uncomfortable bed although the hotel room should be clean. Expect your Murcia hotel room to not have on-suite bathroom but a bathroom in the hallway which will be shared by other Murcia hotel guests. A one star Murcia hotel will have no facilities such as telephone or internet access. Our advice is to check the room first before you commit to staying.
Two star hotels in Murcia are still of a basic standard and again will offer few facilities (if any). Again, if possible we recommend checking out the room before you make your hotel booking. However two star hotels in Murcia will be of a clean standard and safe so depending on your budget they are good value for money.
Despite Murcia's size you still won't find many international brand-name hotels in Murcia so do take care to read our guide on the hotel star rating system for hotels in Murcia. Having said that Murcia is becoming more and more discovered by tourists so it is growing rapidly and adding more and more hotel accommodation and rooms all the time.
If you are looking for hotel accommodation in Murcia in the peak summer months you may have a problem finding a hotel room so do make your reservation as early as possible. In the off-season you will have a huge choice of hotels and rooms in Murcia so you should get be able to get a cheap hotel deal or bargain.
Consider whether your Murcia hotel has a swimming pool. This is vital in the summer months when temperatures in Murcia can rise above 40 degrees Celsius.
Some Murcia hotels will offer a half board or full board option. These can often be very economical options although Murcia does have a great variety of good restaurants.
When reserving a Murcia hotel do check the cost carefully. Some Murcia hotels include breakfast and other Murcia hotels don't - so do check what is included in your hotel cost and what isn't. Make sure all local Murcia tourist taxes are included so you don't get a shock when you check out of the hotel at the end of your holiday or visit to Murcia.
At the entrance to every Murcia hotel will be a plaque showing the hotel rating according to the Spanish tourist board. This is in the form of stars with a one star Murcia hotel being the most basic hotel standard in Murcia to a five star Murcia hotel being of the highest possible standard.
One star hotels in Murcia are of a very basic standard. This will be the cheapest hotel accommodation in Murcia. Expect a dated decor and possible uncomfortable bed although the hotel room should be clean. Expect your Murcia hotel room to not have on-suite bathroom but a bathroom in the hallway which will be shared by other Murcia hotel guests. A one star Murcia hotel will have no facilities such as telephone or internet access. Our advice is to check the room first before you commit to staying.
Two star hotels in Murcia are still of a basic standard and again will offer few facilities (if any). Again, if possible we recommend checking out the room before you make your hotel booking. However two star hotels in Murcia will be of a clean standard and safe so depending on your budget they are good value for money.
cartagena naval museum
Cartagena is a Mediterranean city and naval station located in the Region of Murcia, southeastern Spain. As of 2009[update], it has a population of 211,996, making it the second largest city in the Region, the 6th among the non-province capitals of Spain, and the 24th overall.
Cartagena has been the capital of the Spanish Navy's Maritime Department of the Mediterranean since the arrival of the Spanish Bourbons in the eighteenth century. As far back as the sixteenth century it was one of the most important naval ports in Spain, together with Ferrol in the North. It is still an important naval seaport, the main military haven of Spain, and there is a big naval shipyard.
Cartagena was known as Qart Hadasht during the Phoenician conquest, Carthago Nova (the New Cartago) and Carthago Spartaria during the Roman era and Qartayannat al-Halfa during Islamic Spain. It was the first of a number of cities which eventually were called Cartagena.
Cartagena has been the capital of the Spanish Navy's Maritime Department of the Mediterranean since the arrival of the Spanish Bourbons in the eighteenth century. As far back as the sixteenth century it was one of the most important naval ports in Spain, together with Ferrol in the North. It is still an important naval seaport, the main military haven of Spain, and there is a big naval shipyard.
Cartagena was known as Qart Hadasht during the Phoenician conquest, Carthago Nova (the New Cartago) and Carthago Spartaria during the Roman era and Qartayannat al-Halfa during Islamic Spain. It was the first of a number of cities which eventually were called Cartagena.
Artillery museum
Military Museum of Cartagena
Given the fact that Cartagena was fought over for much of 2,200 year history it is not surprising that the city has a great deal of military history. Cartagena is still an important military and naval base today.
The Military Museum of Cartagena has an extensive collection of items that makes it a great place to visit. In fact, it has the largest collection of artillery in Spain. The museum is housed in the old Artillery Headquarters, at Plaza General López Pinto and it is open from Monday to Friday from 10am to 1.30pm. Entry is free. The entrance is at the side of the building, in Calle San Juan. Telephone 968 501 300.
The building itself is of considerable interest. It was built as a part of the big programme of military and defensive works that spanned much of the 18th century in Cartagena. The headquarters was completed in August 1786. The full complex filled the area behind the surviving building and traces of the original arches can still be seen. However, a shot fired from centralist forces besieging the city in 1873-74 landed amidst the explosives and an enormous explosion caused extensive damage.
The building housing the military museum has been extensively renovated in recent years and it also houses important archives relating to military history and related subjects.
The museum leaflet describes the building:
The austere and functional architecture is typical of the military style of the XVII Century found extensively in the City of Cartagena. Typically representative of this style of architecture is the vaulted brick roof supported directly on pillars in the spherical simple Byzantine method or the alternative Gothic style with intersecting ribs. Overall the impression is of neo-Classical Gothic.
The building was made up of the arms storage area, courtyard and a blacksmith’s shop. A total of 24 arches allowed plenty of light and ventilation for the craftsmen who worked in hot, noisy and dirty conditions. The building originally had only a ground floor at the north, south and east, but the west side had a first floor. The rear of the courtyard was extensively damaged during the siege and a projectile can still be seen embedded in the west wall of the courtyard.
The museum has a huge collection, ranging from very large pieces of coastal artillery down to small arms. As well as weapons there is an extensive and unusual collection of equipment, such as powder mills, ammunition and equipment.
The model room contains exhibits made with great skill and care over the centuries, many by apprentices in military workshops. There are items relating to the Mechanised XXXII Brigade which made up the garrison in Cartagena from 1966 to its disbandment in 1996. There is also a model of the 74-gun warship, the San Ildefonso, which was built in the local dockyard in 1775. There is also a model of the lookout tower at La Azohia, Puerto de Mazarrón, which was one of a series of towers that kept watch along the coastline, mainly against corsairs from North Africa. There are also models of Cartagena forts, including San Julian, Galeras, Atalaya, La Conception and Moros. The latter, which can be seen behind the train station and bus station, is unique in that it features a twin tower constructed in Moroccan style.
A large model illustrates the siege of the city by the Central Government in 1873-74. The resulting bombardment destroyed not just the artillery headquarters but virtually every other building in the city. Only 17 buildings were left standing. The complicated conflict was between forces favouring a central model for the Spanish state and those, such as at Cartagena, that wanted to see a high degree of regional independence. As well as models, there are documents on display in the model room, including one dated 1508 which refers to the existence of the first armed corps in the city.
A visit to the museum continues through the old building and there is much fine carved woodwork of classic Castilian style. Many important events in Spanish history were played out here. On March 5, 1939, Colonel Annentia, of the Republican forces that had held Cartagena throughout the Civil War, was shot dead on the staircase by a Member of the Nationalist 206 Brigade that had taken over the city.
The principal gallery contains many portraits of military officers and there are examples of precision instruments used by the artillery, such as range finders and compasses. Many are of great detail and beauty. Regimental flags are also on display. One very interesting item on display is a 24.5 pound powder-prover known as El Jilguero, or The Golfinch. This was made in 1739 from copper brought from America and made in the foundry of the fencing master José Bamaola. The Goldfinch weighs 150 pounds. Several smaller rooms house the collection of 20th century uniforms.
One room is the office of the officer who directed operations for the Republican garrison during the Civil War. There are also examples of telecommunications and engineering equipment and photographs of the coast defence artillery. The artificial hand of Captain Ripoll, who was killed fighting in North Africa, is also on display.
The ground floor of the museum houses the artillery collection, which includes a huge variety of pieces, including coastal defence guns, anti-aircraft guns, anti-tank guns and mortars.
One of the most notable pieces is the six-inch Vickers gun from the harbour battery of La Parajola. On March 5, 1939, a Nationalist troop ship, the Castillo de Olite, was sailing in to with troops to garrison the city. Due to a mix-up over surrender dates, the Republican gunners fired on the ship and it sunk with great loss of life.
There is also a big German 88/56 Anti-Aircraft Cannon which was used all over Europe during the Second World War, including with Rommel’s Africa Corkps. There is a Cooper eight-centimeter cannon used in the 1898 war with the United States and which was originally sited in the Fort del Morro de Santiago in Cuba.
The oldest pieces are three cannon recovered from the wreck of a pirate ship sunk in combat off Farallon Island and a copper cannon originally made in Seville in 1777 but converted to a breech loader in 1877.
There are three linked rooms.
The Munitions Room contains a large collection of projectiles, including some from the 17th century. There is a huge, 885 kilogram, round for one of the big 38 centimeter guns that are still in place at Cabo Tiñoso, near Puerto de Mazarrón and at Cenizas at La Manga.
The Engine Room features the mechanisms used for loading, optically aiming and traversing the huge guns and many other items of technical equipment.
The Target Room contains equipment such as rangefinders and telemeters that were used to aim at targets that could be up to 35 kilometres away.
Finally, there is the chapel with a fine carving of Saint Barbara, who is the patron saints of gunners everywhere. This was carved by Roque López, who was a pupil of Murcia’s great master sculptor Salzilo.
The Military Museum is home to an enthusiastic group of English-speaking volunteers who are working to restore items of equipment. More volunteers are always welcome and the man to ask for is Allan Edgar, on 637 062 056.
Given the fact that Cartagena was fought over for much of 2,200 year history it is not surprising that the city has a great deal of military history. Cartagena is still an important military and naval base today.
The Military Museum of Cartagena has an extensive collection of items that makes it a great place to visit. In fact, it has the largest collection of artillery in Spain. The museum is housed in the old Artillery Headquarters, at Plaza General López Pinto and it is open from Monday to Friday from 10am to 1.30pm. Entry is free. The entrance is at the side of the building, in Calle San Juan. Telephone 968 501 300.
The building itself is of considerable interest. It was built as a part of the big programme of military and defensive works that spanned much of the 18th century in Cartagena. The headquarters was completed in August 1786. The full complex filled the area behind the surviving building and traces of the original arches can still be seen. However, a shot fired from centralist forces besieging the city in 1873-74 landed amidst the explosives and an enormous explosion caused extensive damage.
The building housing the military museum has been extensively renovated in recent years and it also houses important archives relating to military history and related subjects.
The museum leaflet describes the building:
The austere and functional architecture is typical of the military style of the XVII Century found extensively in the City of Cartagena. Typically representative of this style of architecture is the vaulted brick roof supported directly on pillars in the spherical simple Byzantine method or the alternative Gothic style with intersecting ribs. Overall the impression is of neo-Classical Gothic.
The building was made up of the arms storage area, courtyard and a blacksmith’s shop. A total of 24 arches allowed plenty of light and ventilation for the craftsmen who worked in hot, noisy and dirty conditions. The building originally had only a ground floor at the north, south and east, but the west side had a first floor. The rear of the courtyard was extensively damaged during the siege and a projectile can still be seen embedded in the west wall of the courtyard.
The museum has a huge collection, ranging from very large pieces of coastal artillery down to small arms. As well as weapons there is an extensive and unusual collection of equipment, such as powder mills, ammunition and equipment.
The model room contains exhibits made with great skill and care over the centuries, many by apprentices in military workshops. There are items relating to the Mechanised XXXII Brigade which made up the garrison in Cartagena from 1966 to its disbandment in 1996. There is also a model of the 74-gun warship, the San Ildefonso, which was built in the local dockyard in 1775. There is also a model of the lookout tower at La Azohia, Puerto de Mazarrón, which was one of a series of towers that kept watch along the coastline, mainly against corsairs from North Africa. There are also models of Cartagena forts, including San Julian, Galeras, Atalaya, La Conception and Moros. The latter, which can be seen behind the train station and bus station, is unique in that it features a twin tower constructed in Moroccan style.
A large model illustrates the siege of the city by the Central Government in 1873-74. The resulting bombardment destroyed not just the artillery headquarters but virtually every other building in the city. Only 17 buildings were left standing. The complicated conflict was between forces favouring a central model for the Spanish state and those, such as at Cartagena, that wanted to see a high degree of regional independence. As well as models, there are documents on display in the model room, including one dated 1508 which refers to the existence of the first armed corps in the city.
A visit to the museum continues through the old building and there is much fine carved woodwork of classic Castilian style. Many important events in Spanish history were played out here. On March 5, 1939, Colonel Annentia, of the Republican forces that had held Cartagena throughout the Civil War, was shot dead on the staircase by a Member of the Nationalist 206 Brigade that had taken over the city.
The principal gallery contains many portraits of military officers and there are examples of precision instruments used by the artillery, such as range finders and compasses. Many are of great detail and beauty. Regimental flags are also on display. One very interesting item on display is a 24.5 pound powder-prover known as El Jilguero, or The Golfinch. This was made in 1739 from copper brought from America and made in the foundry of the fencing master José Bamaola. The Goldfinch weighs 150 pounds. Several smaller rooms house the collection of 20th century uniforms.
One room is the office of the officer who directed operations for the Republican garrison during the Civil War. There are also examples of telecommunications and engineering equipment and photographs of the coast defence artillery. The artificial hand of Captain Ripoll, who was killed fighting in North Africa, is also on display.
The ground floor of the museum houses the artillery collection, which includes a huge variety of pieces, including coastal defence guns, anti-aircraft guns, anti-tank guns and mortars.
One of the most notable pieces is the six-inch Vickers gun from the harbour battery of La Parajola. On March 5, 1939, a Nationalist troop ship, the Castillo de Olite, was sailing in to with troops to garrison the city. Due to a mix-up over surrender dates, the Republican gunners fired on the ship and it sunk with great loss of life.
There is also a big German 88/56 Anti-Aircraft Cannon which was used all over Europe during the Second World War, including with Rommel’s Africa Corkps. There is a Cooper eight-centimeter cannon used in the 1898 war with the United States and which was originally sited in the Fort del Morro de Santiago in Cuba.
The oldest pieces are three cannon recovered from the wreck of a pirate ship sunk in combat off Farallon Island and a copper cannon originally made in Seville in 1777 but converted to a breech loader in 1877.
There are three linked rooms.
The Munitions Room contains a large collection of projectiles, including some from the 17th century. There is a huge, 885 kilogram, round for one of the big 38 centimeter guns that are still in place at Cabo Tiñoso, near Puerto de Mazarrón and at Cenizas at La Manga.
The Engine Room features the mechanisms used for loading, optically aiming and traversing the huge guns and many other items of technical equipment.
The Target Room contains equipment such as rangefinders and telemeters that were used to aim at targets that could be up to 35 kilometres away.
Finally, there is the chapel with a fine carving of Saint Barbara, who is the patron saints of gunners everywhere. This was carved by Roque López, who was a pupil of Murcia’s great master sculptor Salzilo.
The Military Museum is home to an enthusiastic group of English-speaking volunteers who are working to restore items of equipment. More volunteers are always welcome and the man to ask for is Allan Edgar, on 637 062 056.
The History of a Discovery
From the beginning, the discovery and excavation of the Roman Theatre of Cartagena has become in one of the most amazing finds the town's archaeology, demonstrating the important role that the town of Cartagena played in the history of Old Spain (Hispania Antigua).
The reason why a monument of this category and dimension might have remained hidden for centuries is that it is one of the few areas of the city that has remained continuously occupied until now, with the result that its appearance was hidden with the passing of time. An example of this occupation is the partial superimposing of the Old Cathedral over the upper part of the Roman Theatre, one of the single greatest examples of the town's archaeological remains.
Despite starting off as being a simple archaeological project, the complete restoration of the roman ruins has become the driving force behind the regeneration of one of the most depressed areas of the city. Furthermore, its location alongside some of the town's most significant buildings, such as the Cathedral, Town Hall, the Mediaeval Castle and port facilities, makes it one of the most attractive and monumental places in Cartagena.
The reason why a monument of this category and dimension might have remained hidden for centuries is that it is one of the few areas of the city that has remained continuously occupied until now, with the result that its appearance was hidden with the passing of time. An example of this occupation is the partial superimposing of the Old Cathedral over the upper part of the Roman Theatre, one of the single greatest examples of the town's archaeological remains.
Despite starting off as being a simple archaeological project, the complete restoration of the roman ruins has become the driving force behind the regeneration of one of the most depressed areas of the city. Furthermore, its location alongside some of the town's most significant buildings, such as the Cathedral, Town Hall, the Mediaeval Castle and port facilities, makes it one of the most attractive and monumental places in Cartagena.
Museums
Municipal Archaeological Museum Cartagena
Municipal Archaeological Museum - Opened in 1982, the Municipal Archaeological Museum is the main centre of archaeological activity in Cartagena.
The museum stands on the site of the original Roman necropolis of San Antón, built at the end of the 4th century AD. The museum now contains some of the most important ancient inscriptions in Spain.
Opening Times:- Tuesday-Friday, 10am-2pm and 5-8pm. Saturdays and Sundays, 11am-2pm. Closed: Mondays and public holidays.
Address:- Calle Ramón y Cajal, 45 - 30204, Cartagena Tel. (0034) 968 539 027
Admission:- Free (2006)
Municipal Archaeological Museum - Opened in 1982, the Municipal Archaeological Museum is the main centre of archaeological activity in Cartagena.
The museum stands on the site of the original Roman necropolis of San Antón, built at the end of the 4th century AD. The museum now contains some of the most important ancient inscriptions in Spain.
Opening Times:- Tuesday-Friday, 10am-2pm and 5-8pm. Saturdays and Sundays, 11am-2pm. Closed: Mondays and public holidays.
Address:- Calle Ramón y Cajal, 45 - 30204, Cartagena Tel. (0034) 968 539 027
Admission:- Free (2006)
costa calida blogger
costa calida blogger, great info about the costa calida in Murcia.
Events, bars and restaurants, history, sports.
Join me! search google for "costa calida blogger"
Events, bars and restaurants, history, sports.
Join me! search google for "costa calida blogger"
Jumilla.
For anybody interested in going further inland, I have written a blog describing life and events in Jumilla.
August is a good time to visit my local town as we have the renowned Fiesta de la Vendimia (fancy having red wine thrown over you?) the National Folklore Festival, Fiesta de Moros y Cristianos and finally the Fiesta de la Virgen de la Asunción, the patroness of Jumilla.
La Diva Restaurante - International Cuisine in Los Alcazares
Features
Air-Conditioned, Free Parking, Non-Smoking
Greek Food, English Food
Indian Food, Italian Food
Mexican Food, Oriental
Pizzeria, Seafood
Steak House, Vegetarian Food
Sample the delights of our sumptuous international menu, cooked to the very highest standard and served in elegant surroundings.
We cater for all the family, offering a choice of mouthwatering dishes from all over the world.
can you translate español: Directions
can you translate español: Directions: "to the right a la derecha to the left a la izquierda straight ahead ..."
can you translate español: Colors & shapes
can you translate español: Colors & shapes: "red rojo / roja circle el círculo pink rosado / rosada ..."
can you translate español: Weather
can you translate español: Weather: "¿Qué tiempo hace? What's the weather like? Hace buen tiempo. The weather's nice. ..."
can you translate español: Possessive Adjectives
can you translate español: Possessive Adjectives: "Initial Forms Terminal Forms singular plural ..."
can you translate español: To Know People & Facts
can you translate español: To Know People & Facts: "conocer - to know people saber - to know facts conozco ..."
can you translate español: Prepositions
can you translate español: Prepositions: "a at, to al lado de beside, alongside of con with ..."
can you translate español: Family & Animals
can you translate español: Family & Animals: "family la familia grandfather el abuelo baby el beb..."
Beaches
The Costa Cálida for its beaches stretch along 250 kilometres of coastline. There are facilities for all sorts of watersports including jet skiing, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, water skiing and fly surfing. The nautical resorts on Mar Menor and around Mazarrón and Águilas in particular have equipment for hire and provide sailing courses.
La Manga del Mar Menor in particular is recognised for its beaches, hotels and water sports facilities. Mar Menor generally has calm waters and is good for wind surfing and kayaking.
The Villa Nanitos beach near San Pedro del Pinatar is used for kayaking, beach volleyball, waterskiing and surfing.
The Punta del Fraile beach near Águilas has clear water, making it good for snorkelling. It is only accessible by foot.
Blue Flag beaches
The Blue Flag is an internationally recognised award given to beaches and marinas that fulfil certain criteria concerning facilities, water quality, environmental issues and public access and safety. The Blue Flag website provides details for Blue Flag beaches, including type of sand, whether there is wheelchair access, wind and water sports available, and whether cafes and bars are available.
Main Tourist Attractions
Murcia
The capital city of the Murcia region offers many museums and sites of tourist interest. The Museo Salizillo, which houses the works of 18th century Murcian artist and wood sculptor Francisco Salzillo, is one of the city's most important museums. The Catedral de Santa María, an example of 14th to 18th century baroque architecture, and the Casino are also recommended visits.
Cartagena
Built around a natural harbour, the city of Cartagena has several forts and castles of important historical and naval interest. There are also architecturally interesting buildings and museums such as the Museo Nacional de Arqueología Marítima and the Museo Arqueológico Municipal.
Fortuna
To the north east of Murcia, Fortuna is most well known as a spa town. Its thermal hot springs, the Balneario, were used by both Romans and Arabs. The spa retains a late 19th century layout and the water is believed to be beneficial for sufferer's of rheumatic and respiratory complaints. Hydrotherapy and beauty treatments are also available.
Sierra Espuña
One of the Costa Cálida's regional parks, the Sierra Espuña is a popular destination for outdoor sports in the province of Murcia with places to walk, hike and climb as well as fish, canoe and bridge jump.
Other areas of note are San Javier, Los Alcázares and Cartagena.
Activities on the Costa Calida
A Holiday in the Costa Calida can include a wide variety of activities from Watersports and Golf to Mountain Climbing, then again why not just take a relaxing break lazing on the beach, it's up to you. The Region of Murcia and the Costa Calida have many activities and attractions to offer.
Costa Calida Activities - diving trips at Cabo de Palos - pleasure trips from Tomas Maestre Marina La Manga Strip - Karting La Manga - Mountains and lakes near Calasparra - Trekking Calblanque - Mar Menor beaches - jetski Mar Menor - Tomas Maestre Marina
Water Sports
Jet skies, kite surfing, power boats, wind surfacing, can all be found on the La Manga Strip and in the Marinas around the Mar Menor.
Ferry
There is a ferry which runs daily from Sandiago de la Ribera to Tomas Maestre Marina, La Manga, on the hour and only costs a few euros. This is a very pleasant half hour trip.
Boat Trips
There is are pleasure boats which operate from Los Alcazares and Tomas Maestre Marina which travel around the Mar Menor and out into the Mediterranean.
Scuba Diving
Lessons for the complete beginner or for the more advanced trips are organised from Cabo de Palos and from the Tomas Maestre Marina.
Pony Trekking
You will find a stables on the edge of the Calablanque Nature Reserve near the entrance to the La Manga Club.
Go Karts
Great for all the family, you will find the Go Karts near to Cabo de Palos.
Walking
There are many designated walking routes around the Calablanque Nature Reserve and in the Sierra Espuna.
Costa Calida Activities - diving trips at Cabo de Palos - pleasure trips from Tomas Maestre Marina La Manga Strip - Karting La Manga - Mountains and lakes near Calasparra - Trekking Calblanque - Mar Menor beaches - jetski Mar Menor - Tomas Maestre Marina
Water Sports
Jet skies, kite surfing, power boats, wind surfacing, can all be found on the La Manga Strip and in the Marinas around the Mar Menor.
Ferry
There is a ferry which runs daily from Sandiago de la Ribera to Tomas Maestre Marina, La Manga, on the hour and only costs a few euros. This is a very pleasant half hour trip.
Boat Trips
There is are pleasure boats which operate from Los Alcazares and Tomas Maestre Marina which travel around the Mar Menor and out into the Mediterranean.
Scuba Diving
Lessons for the complete beginner or for the more advanced trips are organised from Cabo de Palos and from the Tomas Maestre Marina.
Pony Trekking
You will find a stables on the edge of the Calablanque Nature Reserve near the entrance to the La Manga Club.
Go Karts
Great for all the family, you will find the Go Karts near to Cabo de Palos.
Walking
There are many designated walking routes around the Calablanque Nature Reserve and in the Sierra Espuna.
los alcazares
News
LOS ALCAZARES ANNOUNCES ANNUAL FIESTA
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Sally Bengtsson / 2010-08-01 18:24:58
The festivities will begin on August 13th
The Mayoress of Los Alcazares, Encarnación Gil Castejón, announced the dates for the 39th Annual International Week of the Sea and Farmland.
The festivities will begin on August 13th in the auditorium which is situated at the end of the long park.
Over nine days international dance groups from as far afield as Peru, the Ivory Coast and Serbia will take to the stage to entertain the crowds. Dances will include la zarzuela, traditional dances, classical ballet and trovos.
The main day of the event will be August 16th, when many of the local residents dress in traditional costume and eat and drink all day at the fairground.
Los Alcazares
Los Alcazares - Costa Calida - Murcia - Spain
The lovely Costa Calida town of Los Alcazares is located just off the N332 coastal road between Cartagena and San Javier, lapped by the tranquil, warm waters of the Mar Menor, its fine beaches attract holidaymakers from all over the world. The Spanish people themselves love this part of the coast and head here from cities like Murcia during the hot summer months.
Las Palmeras Beach Los AlcazaresPart of the Murcia region of south-eastern Spain, Los Alcazares has a permanent population of around 15,000 though this increases to something like 150,000 during the busy summer season. The municipal district of Los Alcazares includes about 7 km of the Mar Menor (Lesser Sea) coastline and includes some fine sandy beaches, the Mar Menor itself has a depth of no more than 7 metres and is renowned for having a temperature some 5° warmer than the surrounding Mediterranean sea. The Mar Menor also has a very high salt content and has been well known over the centuries for its healing powers - even the Romans knew of this, and built Spas at various places along the coast. Los Alcazares became an independent town in 1983 and every year enjoys a week-long celebration to remember this important event for the town.
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The known history of Los Alcazares goes back to the Arab occupation of the region (8th to 13th Centuries), and the name meaning 'The Palaces' comes from the Arabic 'Al-Kazar' meaning palace or stately house.
Although the Romans had formerly built Spas in the area to make use of the healing waters, the Arabs improved and consolidated these Spas and the area became important as a resting place, for relaxation and the enjoyment of life. The Arabs also brought with them, their complex irrigation systems, developed in the middle-east and north Africa, enabling formerly arid land to be planted and used, thus agriculture became very important for Los Alcazares as it still is today. The Arabs also brought with them their unique fishing methods, particularly useful in the tranquil, shallow waters of the Mar Menor - some of these fishing methods (including one called "la encañizada") are still used to great effect today.
After the Arabs were expelled during the 13th Century, Los Alcazares became somewhat depopulated although it continued to be a fishing town. During the 16th and 17th Centuries Los Alcazares was no more than a tower with a fortified enclosure, and was used as a watering area for the cattle which grazed on the grasslands around the town.
Los Alcazares Old ChurchAfter the construction of a hermitage in 1898 Los Alcazares began to become known as a tourist resort for the people of Murcia and it became something of a 'camping site' as many tents, awnings and temporary cabins were constructed along the seafront for the purpose of a peculiar custom which became known as 'novenario' and involved the taking of at least 9 baths in the waters from the time of the festival of the Virgen del Carmen (July 16th) throughout the remainder of July and August, this custom continued until around the middle of the 20th Century.
Los Alcazares today is a busy tourist resort with a good selection of shops, bars and restaurants, and some fine beaches. It is a popular spot for water sports and the Mar Menor is a haven for all types of such sports including windsurfing, sailing, jet-skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming. For golfers there are a good range of courses nearby, the closest being La Serena Golf, and new complexes currently under construction, also the famous sports resort of La Manga is just a short drive away.
Los Alcazares has its share of fiestas and celebrations including 'La Huerta' an international festival of market gardening held in August, the Festividad de la Virgin del Carmen (16th July), and its annual Carnival held in February.
Los Alcazares can be easily accessed from the N332 coast road and from the AP-7 motorway, it is just a 10 minute drive from the nearest airport at San Javier (Murcia), other places worth visiting around Los Alcazares include Lo Pagan with its famous healing mud baths, the La Manga sports resort, San Pedro del Pinatar, the ancient city of Cartagena and the unspoilt beaches of Calblanque.
walking in murcia
Spain is said to be Europe's second most mountainous country, after Switzerland, which becomes immediately apparent as you fly in over its seemingly endless green ridges. Spain is more commonly known as a package holiday destination. However head in land with Walking Holidays in Spain, away from the busy Costa’s and you'll discover a fantastic landscape that is ideal for a walking holiday.
Walking Holidays in Spain helps you experience the best that the Costa Blanca has to offer, with an endless variety of trails for all levels of walkers. (Our walks can be tailored to your personal requirements).
MUD BATHS LO PAGAN MURCIA
Pictures and information for Lo Pagan, a beach resort and healing mud baths on the Mar Menor, Costa Calida, Spain.
Windmill Lo Pagan Beach
Lo Pagan - Mar Menor - Costa Calida - Spain
Lo Pagan on the Mar Menor (lesser sea) is best known for its therapeutic mud baths, the mud has been renowned from early times for its healing powers.
Due to the long hours of sunlight and the very high salt level in the waters a unique mud has been created in a section of the lake known as La Puntica - the mud contains high levels of potassium, calcium, magnesium, fluoride, sulfur and chlorine. The mud is recommended for many skin conditions including acne, abscesses, sores and ulcers, it also has a stimulating effect on wound healing.
THe Mud Baths at Lo Pagan Beach Salt Lakes
The mud is also recommended for its anti-inflammatory effect on rheumatism, arthritis, gout and for rehabilitation after a bone fracture. The mud is applied over the infected areas and allowed to dry in the sun before being washed off in the salt waters.
The salt water itself is also known for its healing effects. Lo Pagan is in the Costa Calida region of the province of Murcia, south-eastern Spain.
costa calida blogger: Welcome to Cartagena.The official chamber of trade...
costa calida blogger: Welcome to Cartagena.The official chamber of trade...: "Welcome to Cartagena. The official chamber of trade, industry and navigation, Cartagena welcomes you. In our visit we will find the most up ..."
costa calida blogger: MAR MENOR SEA RESORTConsists of a series of sailin...
costa calida blogger: MAR MENOR SEA RESORTConsists of a series of sailin...: "MAR MENOR SEA RESORT Consists of a series of sailing, water sports and a tourist infrastructures grouped around the shores of the mar menor..."
Opening Times and Ticket Prices
- Take Public Buses 21 or 22 from Benidorm right to the entrance of Terra Mitica.
- Complementary buses leave from XXXX on the hour to the park.
- By car just get on the CV70 out of town and you'll see it well signposted. Parking is 5 Eur. for the day.
- A taxi carrying upto 4 people will take you to the entrance for around 15 Eur. each way.
Tickets are available for one or two days and afternoon tickets only can be purchased. For this season's latest official prices please see the Terra Mitica Website.
* In 2006 the park opened from 25th March to 5th November (closed Nov-Mar)
* From 17th July to 3rd Sept. from 10am to 10pm (other days 10am to 8pm)
* Check Terra Mitica Website to confirm opening dates and hours.
Ticket Information
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Children from 0-4 are free.
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A Junior Ticket is for children from 5-10.
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A Senior Ticket is for those over 60.
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2 Day Ticket is only valid for two consecutive days.
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Afternoon Tickets are valid from 3pm to 10pm (17/7 to 3/9 from 4pm to 1am).
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Keep your eyes open for discounted tickets in Benidorm. The Terra Mitica kiosk (Avda. Atmella de Mar) opposite Burger King at the northern end of Playa Levante will give you €6 ticket discount vouchers & will show you where the free bus leaves from.
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Check if there are any offers at McDonalds. They sometimes give two entrances for the price of one to Terra Mitica with every 'happy meal'.
New Attractions
Every year new attractions appear at Terra Mitica including the Warrior of the Dawn, a Greek simulator experience where you enter a digital world of adventure. For speed demons the Mitikarts race track is for you. There's a special area just for young children to have a spin. If the haunted house is more your taste then head for the Pyramid of Terror where mummies and pharaohs will attempt to scare you to death! These are just a few of the newer arrivals.
Benidorm Terra Mitica Benidorm Terra Natura
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Terra mitica
Terra Mitica is one one of Europe's most exciting theme parks and is Benidorm's main tourist attraction. It has something for all age groups and for all 'fear thresholds'.
Don't worry about going if you're not a fan of the adrenaline rush as there are always plenty gentler options including some great water rides. To make sure that younger children never feel left out the park has cleverly constructed 15 kiddie rides which are replicas of the scarier adult version. All in all there is something for everyone at Terra Mitica.
You can go on rides as many times as you wish but bear in mind that there are so many rides that you won't be able to go on them all in a day. In fact, time permitting, we'd recommend that you purchase the two day pass as there's more than enough at Terra Mitica to keep the whole family amused.
Terra Mitica is split into five different sectors according to a particular theme. Each of these areas have rides related to its particular theme and the restaurants of the area are also based on that same theme. If you're too busy to sit down for a full scale meal then there's no end of fast food outlets throughout the park.
The main sectors are as follows:
http://www.terramiticapark.com/?idioma=_ing
main sectors
Egypt
Once you've entered Terra Mitica you'll immediately find yourself in Ancient Egypt with its fabulous pyramids and the river Nile. You can take a gentle cruise from the port of Alessandria down the river towards Iberia with great views of all the rides or if you're desperate to get straight to the action then the Nile Waterfall awaits you. This ride takes place in a log flume with a 20 metre forward drop followed by scarier but shorter backward drop.
Terra Mitica Benidorm Egypt in Terra Mitica
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Greece
Synkope is one of the park's latest and scariest rides on which a giant red wheel holding 70 people spins and swings at the same time causing some serious screams from its occupants. The giant simulator in the temple of Kinetos is another main attraction in this area. Children can discover ancient Greece from horseback.
Rome
The Flight of the Phoenix is one of the highlight of this sector but isn't for the faint hearted. The ride takes you 70 metres in the air then drops you at 120 km per hour. Magnus Colossus is a massive roller coaster in this same zone. Many fun kiddie alternatives exist such as Tentaculus which is a children's ride based on the story of the Fire and the Phoenix. Live shows in this sector are held in an amphitheatre again complying with the Roman theme.
Iberia
The river boat from Egypt docks at El Moll where you disembark and head for another selection of rides including the Crazy Cars where traditional theme park cars have been replaced by bulls, cows and sheep. Take a train ride on El Tren Bravo, Iberia's nastiest locomotive.
Mediterranean Islands
A good area for water rides especially the Rapids of Argos where you'll be glad you came wearing your swimming gear as you fight the changing sea currents. Your main job on the Islands is to rescue Ulysses, another top attraction.
These are short summaries of just a few of the main attractions in the different areas. For a map of Terra Mitica and a description of all the rides take a look at the Terra Mitica website.
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