February 1 Guided tour of the sanctuary of the Virgen de las Huertas and the old caliphal palace in Lorca

The stories behind the two buildings date back to the conquest of Lorca by Christian forces in the 13^th century

The Santuario de la Virgen de las Huertas in Lorca is an extraordinary site where visitors can in effect see two historical buildings in one, with the church and Franciscan monastery of the patron of the city having built above the remains of the Caliphs’ Palace which dates from the time of Moorish rule in the Region of Murcia, prior to 1243.

The church is home to the figure of the Virgen de las Huertas, who is said to have inspired King Alfonso X in his conquest of Lorca from Moors, and contains an impressive collection of religious art, housed in buildings which have needed extensive restoration since the earthquakes which hit Lorca in May 2011.

But for many the most impressive part of the visit is the descent to the remains of the Moorish palace, most of which have come to light as a result of the restoration project.

The tour, which takes place in Spanish on the first Saturday of the month, begins at 12.00 at the side door of the Convento de la Virgen de las Huertas and lasts approximately an hour and 15 minutes. Bookings can be made online here at 10 euros for adults and 9 euros for children aged 13 to 16 and other discounted groups. Admission is free for children aged under 13.

Please note the visit will not be held unless a minimum group size of 10 people is reached.

For further information contact the Lorca visitors centre (telephone 968 479003 / 968 959646, email info@lorcatallerdeltiempo.com; recepcion.fortaleza@lorca.net).

For more local events, news and visiting information go to the home page of Lorca Today.