September 27 Historical recreation at Jumilla castle

The castle has stood on the hill overlooking Jumilla for 550 years

In celebration of World Tourism Day, which falls every year on 27^th September, the tourist office of Jumilla in northern Murcia is holding this day of historical recreation at the castle, which has been faithfully restored to a condition very similar to how it must have looked when it was built in the 15^th century.

Jumilla castle is located on the hill behind the town, where it is known that there were previous fortifications in the Bronze Age as well as in Roman and Moorish times. However, this tour focuses on life in the castle after the current structure was built by the Marquis de Villena: it was he who ordered that it be rebuilt in almost exactly the form we can see today. Fortunately for the Marquis, the fortifications were soon redundant as the threat of Moorish uprisings receded, and it was not until later centuries that the building was put to any meaningful military use.

During the Wars of the Spanish Succession it was at the castle of Jumilla that Cardinal Belluga gathered his troops to fight for the cause of the House of Borbón in the Battle of Almansa (1707), and when Felipe de Borbón eventually triumphed it was this loyalty to his cause which led to Jumilla receiving royal favour over the following years.

During the War of Independence the castle was used as a barracks by the French troops, who adapted it somewhat, and in the first half of the 19th century it became a prison. Following this, though, its condition declined and eventually the castle was abandoned.

The historical recreation scenes tour on Sunday 27^th September can be seen between 10.00 and 18.00, giving you plenty of time to explore the charming old town centre, take a tour of the local countryside and of course enjoy the local cuisine and wines!

For more local news, events and visiting information please contact the tourist office or go to the home page of Jumilla Today.