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Discover Murcia's latest historical attraction: An underground car park with views of the medieval city wall
A new glass enclosure reveals Murcia’s 12th‑century La Muralla del Sol while protecting it for future generations
Visitors parking in the Glorieta de España in Murcia might soon find themselves face‑to‑face with a stunning piece of history. The city’s famous Muralla del Sol (Sun Wall), one of the last surviving fragments of its medieval fortifications, is about to complete a major restoration that blends archaeology with modern design.The project, led by the Ayuntamiento de Murcia, is entering its final phase after several months of work focused on cleaning, strengthening and protecting the wall. Built in the late 12th century, the Islamic‑era structure once guarded one of the main entrances to the old city and includes a defensive tower with arrow slits and adjoining sections of wall.
Deputy Mayor and Councillor for Heritage, Rebeca Pérez, said the restoration reflects the council’s wider vision to reconnect residents with their past.
“One of the key elements of our city model, promoted by Mayor Ballesta, is the recovery, protection and enhancement of our historical heritage,” she explained, as she showed off the car park addition.
Perhaps the most eye‑catching feature of the project is a new glass screen that lets visitors admire the ancient wall from different levels of the underground car park.
“This design allows people to enjoy the view while also guaranteeing the monument’s protection through a ventilation system that prevents condensation,” Pérez added.
Costing nearly 120,000 euros, the project aims to shield the centuries‑old structure from the humidity and pollution typical of an underground environment, ensuring its preservation well into the future.
La Muralla del Sol is officially recognised as a Cultural Heritage Site (BIC) and included in Murcia’s Special Plan for Historical‑Artistic Protection (PECHA), which ensures that all works respect the original materials and character of the site.
Local heritage group Huermur, which first proposed a transparent protective barrier back in 2018, has welcomed the development while noting it came later than hoped.
President Sergio Pacheco said, “We are pleased that they have finally acknowledged and addressed the need to protect this medieval wall, but it is a shame it has taken eight years to get here.”
Once complete, Murcia’s Muralla del Sol will stand as both a museum‑quality landmark and an everyday surprise for those who simply come to park their cars in the heart of the city.
Images: Ayuntamiento de Murcia
