Free walking tours in Caravaca de la Cruz and what to see

Must-sees

Caravaca de la Cruz is one of Catholicism's holy cities, with its own jubilee year. Everything revolves around the Sanctuary of the Vera Cruz, built inside the castle that crowns the city. It keeps the relic of the double-armed cross, and the complex includes a sacred art museum. From the walls you can see the town and the sierra around it.

The old town drops from the castle in steep streets, with churches such as El Salvador and small squares. In early May the Caballos del Vino festival is held, declared of international tourist interest, and the Festival Museum helps you understand it if you do not coincide with it. On the outskirts is the Fuentes del Marqués beauty spot, with springs, groves and a tower.

Free tours and guided visits

Pay-what-you-like free walking tours are hard to find in Caravaca. The usual options are guided visits to the sanctuary and the castle, explaining the history of the relic, the Templar tradition and the origin of the jubilee. There are also guided routes around the historic centre, especially in high season and during jubilee years.

For an excursion, it is worth exploring north-west Murcia. Cehegín, a few kilometres away, has a well-preserved old town. Moratalla and its sierra are good for hiking and nature routes. Many visitors also arrive on foot along the Camino de la Cruz, a pilgrimage route you can walk in part.

How long to spend

Half a day is enough for the sanctuary, the castle and a stroll around the centre. If you want to add the Fuentes del Marqués and a relaxed lunch, give it a full day. With two days you can round off the visit with Cehegín, Moratalla or a route in the sierras of the region's north-west.

Where to stay

The best choice is to stay in or around the old town, at the foot of the castle. That way you walk up to the sanctuary first thing or at dusk, when there are fewer people, and have bars and restaurants to hand. The Gran Vía area is flatter and more convenient if you have a car. In jubilee years book ahead, because the city fills with pilgrims and groups.