Considered a Holy City and an important Catholic pilgrimage site, Caravaca de la Cruz lies near the meandering River Argos in the Spanish region of Murcia. It is famed for its fortress basilica containing a piece of the True Cross and its lively festival that has been designated by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Things to do in Caravaca de la Cruz
Rising north of Caravaca is the Basilica Shrine of Vera Cruz, which was built within the walled enclosure of the Real Alcazar. Originally established by the Moors, this fortress is dominated by 14 towers of varying shapes and sizes. Admire the basilica’s Baroque facade crafted from local marble and step inside to see the Caravaca Cross, which is said to have been carried to Caravaca de la Cruz by two angels.
Occupying one of Caravaca de la Cruz’s earliest churches is the Museo Arqueologico Municipal de la Soledad, which exhibits archaeological findings from across the region. In addition to Neolithic artefacts and objects from the Iberian sanctuary of La Encarnacion, there are archaeological treasures from Villaricos and Los Villares on display.
On the western outskirts of Caravaca de la Cruz is the Fuentes Del Marques, a picturesque reserve with natural springs, fountains and a nature centre. Admire the Fuente del Sapo with its spout carved in the shape of a toad and enjoy a dip in the crystal clear waters fed by cascades. Walking trails wind through the surrounding woodlands and there’s a small play area for children.
Getting around Caravaca de la Cruz
Caravaca de la Cruz is around 45 minutes’ drive from Murcia and an hour from Murcia International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular buses connect to Caravaca de la Cruz and the city centre is compact enough to explore on foot.