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This summer Lorca is one of many locations which seem to be competing for the unofficial title of Astronomy Capital of the Region of Murcia, one of the highlights in a busy programme of events taking place of course in the early evening of 12th August, when a 98.3 per cent eclipse of the sun will be visible in this part of Spain.
A special evening at Lorca castle, on a hilltop looking out over the city and the Guadalentín valley from its historic location, where the menu for the evening consists of far more than a few minutes with your eyes (and protective glasses) turned towards the sky. Qualified astronomers Will be leading the experience while the secondary events begin with a historical “story-telling” in which guides explain some of the secrets hidden within the walls of the castle.
And after the sun returns, a special cocktail and tapas snack is on offer in the main courtyard before a DJ set brings the evening to a relaxing close after midnight.
The prices for witnessing this almost unique event in this historic setting vary according to the exact viewing location you select from the following:
The TORRE ALFONSINA is the highest keep of the castle and access is priced at 49 euros for over-16s and 35 euros for younger visitors.
The TORRE ESPOLÓN is closest to the western horizon, which the sun will be approaching when it is obscured by the moon, and access here is priced at 46 euros for over-16s and 32 euros for younger visitors.
The ROOFTOP OF LAS CABALLERIZAS gives a view out over the gun emplacements in the castle, and access is priced at 43 euros for over-16s and 29 euros for younger visitors.
Booking is essential and is available online here.
The evening begins at 18.30 and the astronomical explanations begin at 19.00, after which visitors move on to their viewing points at 19.30, just before the eclipse begins at 19.37. After it ends the cocktail is served in the main courtyard at 21.30.
A special kit containing eclipse glasses is included.
For more local information about Lorca, including news and what’s on, enquire at the tourist office (Palacio de Guevara, telephone 968 441914, email lorcaturismo@lorca.es, or visit the home page of Lorca Today.
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The rich and extensive history of Lorca has left a legacy of archaeological sites and historic buildings around which the modern city has built its tourism industry. Amongst these are Lorca Castle, Plaza de España, the former Collegiate church of San Patricio, the municipal archaeological museum, the Casa Huerto Ruano, the Palacio de Guevara and the churches and convents of San Francisco, San Mateo, the Virgen de las Huertas, La Merced, El Carmen and many others.
Unfortunately, Lorca has been prone to natural disaster, suffering a severe flood in 1973 which killed 50 people, and a Gota Fría on September 28th 2012, as well as a series of earthquakes, the most recent of which was 5.3 on the Richter scale on 11th May 2011 and claimed 9 lives.
Lorca also has an area of unspoilt coastline incorporating the Parque Regional de Cabo Cope - Puntas de Calnegre, which includes the beaches of Puntas de Calnegre, Cala Calnegre and various others. Although only one is accessible by road others can be reached along dirt tracks!
In terms of fiestas, Lorca is synonymous with Easter (Semana Santa), its biblical parades of International Tourist Interest status being famous throughout Spain. The week includes a series of parades in which the whites (Paso Blanco) and blues (Paso Azul) try to outdo each other with the magnificence of their embroideries and the skill and daring of their horsemen.
In the Autumn Lorca also celebrates the Fiestas of San Clemente and a Feria and there are a series of important events throughout the year in the Recinto Ferial, as well as a busy cultural and sporting programme.
The tourist office relocated for 14 years to Calle San Patricio, near the church, but has now returned to its former premises alongside the Palacio de Guevara in the Plaza Concha Sandoval, or Plaza de la Bordadora (click for map).
Lorca also has an area of inspoilt coastline incorporating the Parque Regional de Cabo Cope - Puntas de Calnegre, in the Sierra de Almenara, which includes the beaches of Puntas de Calnegre, Baño de las Mujeres, San Pedro, El Siscal, Cala Honda, Cuartel del Ciscar, Junquera, Cala de la Gruta, Cala Leña, Los Hierros, Cala Blanca and Playa Larga, although many are accessible only along difficult tracks or by boat!
However, in spite of its many attractions, the name of Lorca is synonymous with Easter, (Semana Santa) its biblical parades of International Tourist Interest status and famous throughout Spain. The week includes a series of processions in which the Whites (Paso Blanco) and Blues (Paso Azúl) try to outdo each other with the magnificence of their embroideries and the skill and daring of their horsemen.
Lorca also has a Parador hotel, located within the historic castle.
Every day of the year apart from 1st and 6th January and 25th December, 10.00 to 14.00 and 16.30 to 18.30 (except Sunday afternoons).
These opening times are often extended and other information points created during the Semana Santa celebrations.
For more local news, events and visiting information go to the home page of Lorca Today
