July 24 Tour of the historic coats of arms on important buildings in Caravaca

History through heraldry in Caravaca de la Cruz!

As one of the major religious pilgrimage destinations in Spain the city of Caravaca de la Cruz in north-western Murcia was also home in the Middle Ages and Early Modern period to some of the most important noble families in the south-east of the Iberian Peninsula, and this is reflected in the number of imposing official and religious buildings and impressive former noble palace-homes in the old centre.

When these families built their residences in Caravaca (or indeed elsewhere) it was of great importance to them to show off their noble heritage and lineage, and there was no better way than to display the family coat of arms for all to see on the façade. As a result, these symbols of ancient power, nobility and perhaps vanity can be seen in a number of streets, opening a window onto the past and the history of the city during the period when baroque architecture was in vogue.

Much the same, of course, applied to the military religious Orders which were so important in Caravaca in the more distant past, safeguarding the holy relic of the True Cross and the city, which at the time was protected by a wall.

(Click here for a history of Caravaca de la Cruz.)

This free guided visit on 24th July, which is held in Spanish (although guides mostly have enough English to help!), is open to a maximum of 25 participants, with registration available online here through the regional tourist board website. Of course, those joining in are advised to wear comfortable clothing and footwear for a walk through the old town, as well as protective cream and headgear. And don’t forget to bring drinking water!

For more local news, events and visiting information contact the local tourist office (telephone 968 702424) or go to the home page of Caravaca Today.