Check out the Historical City of Murcia, Spain

History of the City of Murcia

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.

Popular Art and Monuments

Museum Ramon Gaya - One of Murcia’s most important museums. The museum is housed in a 19th century mansion, Casa Palarea, and was dedicated to the artist Ramon Gaya in 1990. The museum houses the work of Ramon Gaya, among many other famous artists, including Vazuquez and Rembrandt.

The Castle of Monteagudo - A place where local peasants once took refuge. Later, when the city became the true capital of the territory, it became a fort and defensive watchtower of the Murcian ruler who resided in the city. In times of instability, the permanent garrison of the castle was ready to alert the defenders of Murcia to the arrival of the enemy, by way of smoke signals at day or fire at night.

Catedral de Murcia - It features a 302 foot tower whose construction was started in 1519 and took more than two hundred years to build with the involvement of many different architects. For those interested in the history of Murcia, Spain, Catedral de Murcia is the best attraction because this extraordinary building reflects the memory, time, art, and history of Murcia.