An edited version of the text below should be appearing in the Catholic newspaper the Universe , 5th July 2009 edition.
You may have read about Caravaca de la Cruz, Murcia, Spain in previous editions of The Universe. In these articles I have described the significance of Caravaca de la Cruz being one of only 5 cities in the world to hold the prestigious Vatican proclaimed title of Holy City. The other cities are Jerusalem, Rome, Santiago Compostella and Potes (Cantabria, Spain).
Caravaca de la Cruz in English means Caravaca of the Cross and the reason that the late Pope John Paul II gave the title Holy City to Caravaca is because of a legend that surrounds a doubled armed patriarchal cross that is kept in a Basicilla, perched high above the town within the walls of a castle that was once protected by the Knights Templar. This cross contains 3 relics of the true cross of Christ and the local people believe strongly that the cross is very powerful and attribute many miracles to it. The cross of Caravaca is very famous in Spain and each year thousands of people/pilgrims from every corner of the country come to venerate it and its sacred relics.
The majority of people who live in Caravaca and surrounding areas are very pious and within short driving distances there are many other shrines and holy places, for example Our Lady of Hope Sanctuary in Calasparra a beautiful sanctuary built into a rock surrounded by breath taking grounds. The House of Christ in Moratalla, where it is believed an apparition of Christ appeared to a shepherd and cured his withered arm. The monastery/sanctuary dedicated to a 3rd century Spanish saint Santa Eulalia in Totana and the Cathedral city of Murcia to name but a few.
The 5 day fiestas in May (1 -5) are a spectacular event and attract visitors from far and wide. The highlight of the fiestas is the unique race of the wine horses an event that relives a Knights Templar legend. Semana Santa (Holy Week) is another time that the town sways to the beat of the drums of the Nazereno brotherhoods. These hooded brotherhoods carry huge ornate floats that depict scenes from the passion of Christ. Caravaca also celebrates with gusto the feast of the Exaltation of the cross on September 14th. This is a huge civil and religious ceremony surrounded with much pomp but also reverence.
Next year, 2010, Caravaca de la Cruz celebrates its Jubilee Holy Year. During this year, which only happens once every 7 years, there are many events and activities planned. Pilgrims who visit Caravaca during this year can, in accordance with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, receive remission of sins and universal pardon. These pardons are called indulgences which are full or partial remission of temporal punishment due for sins which have already been forgiven. The indulgence is granted by the church after the sinner has confessed and received absolution.
However this part of Spain is not all about holy shrines there are many other things to do whilst visiting here. For example there are some excellent opportunities for outdoor pursuits and sports, excellent walking and mountain biking trails, white water rafting, horse riding and paint balling.
For those looking for a more tranquil time, this part of Murcia is a hidden gem when it comes to wine and gastronomy. Close by to Caravaca is the town of Bullas, this town produces some fantastic wines the most famous being the Las Reñas range. Other towns are also famous for their wine primarily Jumilla and Yecla. It is possible to undertake the Murcian wine route by guided tour, visiting the many local wineries. These tours are an excellent way to sample the wine and food of this vibrant wine region, many of the wines have won many prizes and Murcia is quickly becoming known as one of the best wine producing regions of Europe.
For people who are studying the Spanish language inland Murcia is a great place to come and learn or practice. This area is unlike the Spanish Costas and you may go for days without hearing any English spoken at all. Serious students can undertake intensive Spanish courses to help them master the sometimes complicated verbs and grammar of the Spanish language. Beginners however can also come to study the basics in authentic Spanish surroundings where they will be fully immersed in Spanish culture.
The British and Irish people who I know that have visited Caravaca are always amazed at what this region has to offer and often don’t understand how they hadn’t heard of Caravaca before. You can visit Caravaca from the Spanish coast but to really get the flavour of what this area has to offer you really need to stay over for at least a few days. Whilst not offering many hotels, Caravaca does have the excellently run Discalced Carmelite Friary. The friary is still operational; five friars live there, and it has recently been refurbished incorporating all mod cons whilst still retaining its historical and spiritual charm. The friary was inaugurated by St. John of the Cross in 1587 and he visited Caravaca on seven occasions. The friary is a great place for pilgrimages, retreats or for those who just want to relax in a peaceful location. My family and I are privileged to live in Caravaca de la Cruz and if you would like more information please do not hesitate to contact me on 08701 417 167 or email cruztours@yahoo.co.uk
Tony Higgins (June 2009)
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