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Caravaca revitalises Castle esplanade with traditional stone paving
The project is using local natural stone and manual techniques to honor Caravaca de la Cruz’s heritage
The expansive job to restore the paving at the Castle esplanade in Caravaca de la Cruz is moving along right on track, and the work has already made a noticeable difference. Scheduled for completion by the end of the summer, the goal is to improve accessibility and the overall appearance of this important corner of the town.
Using exclusively local, natural materials and traditional building techniques, the project should also address the longstanding humidity issues that have affected this National Historic-Artistic Monument.
The radial design of the paving emphasises the grandeur of the Royal Basilica of the Vera Cruz’s Baroque façade, blending historical preservation with modern usability.
Mayor José Francisco García recently visited the construction site alongside Luis Melgarejo, senior member of the Vera Cruz Brotherhood, and councillors José Villa (Tourism), Mónica Sánchez (Urban Planning and Public Services) and José Antonio García (Works).
"This strategic project on our town's main landmark represents a new step forward in the conservation and enhancement of our heritage, with an action that is as necessary as it is in demand. The work is being carried out in a manner that is absolutely respectful of the environment, using local materials and with a radial design that enhances the majesty and exceptional nature of the Basilica's Baroque façade," explained José Francisco García.
The paving covers an area of 3,000 square metres and incorporates three types of natural stone sourced from nearby quarries: Caramiel limestone from Cañada de la Cruz, beige Levante stone paving stones and cobblestone paving from nearby localities. All surfaces will receive a protective water-repellent treatment to enhance durability.
Complementing the paving, a new stormwater drainage system is underway, with an investment of €188,000. It is designed to resolve moisture problems in the monument’s walls and improve sanitation in the Medieval Quarter.
In addition, new ornamental lighting will soon illuminate the Castle and Basilica thanks to a €200,000 investment from the Iberdrola Foundation. The lighting system will employ cutting-edge warm-light LED projectors to highlight architectural details through chiaroscuro effects, emphasising the volume and relief of the main façade in a sustainable and respectful manner.
The paving project is part of the broader ‘Camino a Caravaca’ Tourism Sustainability Plan and represents an investment of €470,762, funded by European Next Generation funds from the National Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan.For more local news, events and visiting information go to the home page of Caravaca Today
Images: Ayuntamiento de Caravaca de la Cruz
