History of Murcia, Spain

The City of Murcia was founded in 825 AD by Abd ar-Rahman II, who gave it the name Medinat Mursiya, meaning Market of Murcia. The heritage of Murcia was strongly influenced by the Moors, who took advantage of the Rio Segura and created a complex network of irrigation channels that made the town’s agricultural existence prosperous.

During the 11th century Abd ar-Rahman was overthrown during a civil conflict, which made way for an independent kingdom.

The area was particularly peaceful until 1243 when Murcia and its surrounding areas were conquered by Alfonso X of Castilla and Leon. Under this new government, the city grew and flourished in the 18th century due to the boom in the silk industry and agriculture prosperity. Many of the modern city’s landmarks churches and monuments date from the period of mercantilism.

At Murcia’s peak, disaster struck with the looting of the city by Napoleonic troops in 1810, and the outbreak of the plague and cholera.

These days, however, Murcia is sustained by citrus fruit farming and associated industries. Murcia is also a popular university city with both national and foreign students, which adds a vibrant, modern atmosphere to the area.

For more information about this area, please visit www.PalatinumResort.com.