Free walking tours in Yecla and what to see

Must-sees

Yecla is at the northern tip of the Murcia region, bordering Albacete and Alicante, and is known for its monastrell wines and furniture industry. Its old town revolves around the Plaza Mayor. The parish church of La Asunción, known as the Iglesia Vieja, houses the Holy Week Museum in its Gothic naves. Close by rises the Basilica of La Purísima, whose great dome can be seen from almost anywhere in town.

On Castle Hill is the Sanctuary of the Virgin, with the Marian Museum beside it and wide views over the plain. You climb up via the La Molineta walkways, which start behind the Iglesia Vieja. The Cayetano de Mergelina archaeological museum holds finds from local sites. Outside town, Monte Arabí is a Natural Monument with rock art listed as a World Heritage Site.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free walking tours in Yecla. What works is the town council's guided visits programme, with tours of the old town, the Iglesia Vieja or Castle Hill; check the schedule at the tourist office. The Yecla Wine Route also offers winery visits with tastings, and Monte Arabí can be explored on guided outings.

How long to spend

A morning is enough for the old town, the churches and the climb to the castle. With a full day you can add the archaeological museum and a winery. If you want to see Monte Arabí, set aside another half day. The Fiestas de la Virgen, in early December, fill the streets with arquebusiers and gunpowder.

Where to stay

The most convenient option is to stay in the centre, between the Plaza Mayor and the Parque de la Constitución, with bars and restaurants on foot. Yecla's hotel supply is small and partly geared to business travel, so during fiestas book ahead. If you can't find a room, Jumilla and Villena are a short drive away.