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Lorca's magnificent Excolegiata de San Patricio gets essential façade restoration
One of the Region of Murcia's finest baroque masterpieces has been carefully treated to prevent damage to its historic stonework
Of all the historic and monumental buildings that grace the city of Lorca, perhaps none is more important than the majestic Excolegiata de San Patricio. This extraordinary building, originally constructed to commemorate a legendary 15th-century victory over Moorish forces, now stands as one of the finest examples of Murcian baroque architecture in the entire Region.
The church was built to honour the triumph achieved by Alonso Fajardo "El Bravo" against Moorish raiders from Granada at the Battle of Los Alporchones in 1452. Centuries later, it remains a breathtaking sight, its ornate façade a testament to the skill and artistry of its creators.
Recently, the stunning façade of the old church has been the subject of careful rehabilitation and maintenance work. Vegetation had begun to proliferate on one of its cornices, threatening the integrity of the historic stonework, and specialists were called in to address the problem before any lasting damage could occur.
The intervention was carried out in response to a request made by the Lorca Association and its Cultural Heritage committee, and in line with the municipal commitment to protecting the city's remarkable heritage, according to the mayor.
Once the issue was identified, the Urban Intervention Service issued an Execution Order to the Bishopric. As the building's owner, the Bishopric was instructed to remove the bushes that had appeared on the upper part of the façade, along with any other vegetation that could potentially affect or damage the structure.Municipal technicians also submitted a report to the General Directorate of Heritage, a requirement given San Patricio's status as an Asset of Cultural Interest.
Following approval, the delicate work was carried out by professionals using specialised equipment. The aim was to prevent the mortar that binds the ashlars, the carefully cut stone blocks that form the façade, from weakening over time and putting other materials on the cornice at risk.
When visiting Lorca one of your first ports of call should be the tourist office in Plaza de España (telephone 968 441914, email lorcaturismo@lorca.es).
For more local events, news and visiting information go to the home page of Lorca Today
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