| |
Cartagena
This city is very special because of its historical interest. It was founded almost 2,300 years ago under the name of Quart Hadast. Its name, as we know it today, is derived from its Latin Title Cartago Nova. It was for more than two thousand years a strategic Mediterranean port, surrounded by fortifications and it encloses numerous fine archaeological remains and naval archives. It is a maritime legend and was hugely important in the War of Spanish Succession and the War of Independence. The Sea Wall marks the boundaries of its historic quarter. Next to this walled historic quarter is the Military Arsenal, Its walls house the only entrance gate to the city still standing. Visitors can enjoy pondering over the prototype submarine designed by the inventor from Cartagena Isaac Peral and the National Museum of Maritime Archaeology which houses the National Centre of Underwater Archaeological Investigation.
The entrance to the town centre is dominated by the Palacio Consistorial or City Hall, a gem of modernist architecture. Amongst the various places of interest that are essential to visit are the Old Cathedral of Santa Maria. Its remains stand on the steps of a Roman Theatre discovered in 1987. This structure dates from the 1st century BC and is one of the most important in Spain.
Many of the pieces found on this site can be seen in the Municipal Archaeological Museum, In Torres Park the medieval Castillo de la Concepcion; whose ruins are surrounded by fine gardens, commands a splendid view of the city and harbor, the Byzantine Wall; which, despite its name, is also Roman, and it is the remainder of the Roman road, and the Castle of la Concepcion; a fortress of Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, Arabs and Castilians.
|
|
| |
 Murcia
The city of Murcia is described as one of the most beautiful and historic in the country. The city stands on the banks if the river and enjoys all year round sunshine. It has the highest temperatures in the region. There is a great deal of Moorish influence in the city, not least of all the impressive city walls. After the reconquest, the 20 mosques in the city were turned into churches. The Cathedral is the most highly prized building in the city. The first foundation stone was laid in 1388 by Bishop Pedrosa. It took four centuries to complete. There are so many different styles and cultures within, including 23 different chapels.
As you wander through the city, there is a monumental building on every corner. Many are in pristine condition and those that aren't are being restored to their former glory. One building worthy of a mention is the casino with its amazing palatial interior.
Among the other splendid buildings to see is the Bishop's Palace located near the Cathedral. Dated 1748 it has two wonderful facades. The Convent Church of Santa Ana is 18th century and is the third church to be built on this site, the original being1490. Here you can try the freshly baked cakes, made by the nuns and served through a revolving hatch. The Church of San Miguel stands on the site of an earlier church. The 18th century church has wonderful coloured altarpieces. The Almudi dates from 1602 and was formerly the storage place for public corn collected as tithes. It was reconditioned in 1985 and now houses the art centre and city archives.
|
|
| |
Alicante
The city, also known as The White Fortress, is dominated by two castles. The main one overlooking the town and called Santa Barbara, is clearly visible from the pleasant port and the terraces around it. It can be visited and we surely recommend it. The other one, San Fernando, is more hidden away in the city and hard to find. Alicante is an very pleasant city, capital of the province with the same name and situated on the southern coast of the region of Valencia. Here you will also encounter the regional language "Valenciano". The city boasts its own beach, busy promenade and lively bulevard with happy holiday atmosphere throughout the year. Although many tourist make their stop in Alicante it is still largely a town of the Spaniards compared to other places like Benidorm and Torrvieja. It is certainly a refreshing alternative to most of Spain's mainland coastal resorts, and it has a vibrant nightlife and plenty to see and do.
 Just North of Alicante at San Juan you will find its main beach, most popular with people from Madrid and those from Alicante themselves but just South of the city, almost below the airport there some more great beaches with dunes to be found. Both areas but especially at San Juan become centre for parties day and night with people of all ages drinking and dancing on the fine white sand.
From the marina of Alicante you can take a boat trip to Tabarca, the small island in front of Santa Pola which is a great place for scubadiving. Many people go there for the day to enjoy the cristal water and a long lunch in one of the local restaurants. In wintertime it is all closed and only a few inhabitants remain.
The city, dominated by two castles, is just an hour drive away from places like San Javier in Murcia. It is difficult to go to the city and encounter some rain. It is very lively throughout the year and most of the time you can spend a good deal of time on a terrace, especially along the harbour with its restaurants and bars.
|
|
