Restoration work ready to start at the old church of San Juan in Lorca

The church is one of the oldest in Lorca and dates from the 15^th century

Following the awarding of the works contract, all is now ready for the restoration of the church of San Juan in Lorca to begin, this being one of the last monuments in the city to still be awaiting repairs following the catastrophic earthquakes of May 2011.

In the upper quarter of Lorca this is the last old church still awaiting restoration, and after the contract was awarded on 22^nd July for around 1.8 million euros it is anticipated that the start of work is now imminent. This had become a matter of urgency following the damage done by the torrential storms of February and March 2025, exacerbating damage done by the 2011 earthquakes and many decades of neglect.

Despite the sorry state of the building, it is still believed possible to save the dome and the bell tower and replace the central vaulted ceiling before restoring some of the magnificent decoration of the interior. When this is complete it is anticipated that the building will be used for cultural purposes, making the most of its panoramic views over the city below.

The church dates from as long ago as the 15^th century although it underwent considerable rebuilding in the 17^th, after another major earthquake hit Lorca in 1647. In its early days it housed city council meetings and also served as a watchtower until the late 18^th century, when the tower was adapted to house a bell.

For more local events, news and visiting information contact the tourist office in the Plaza de España (telephone 968 441914) go to the home page of Lorca Today.