FAQS

What is there to see and do in Caravaca?

Visit the Real Basílica, which houses the famous Cross of Caravaca, complete the Jubilee pilgrimage, admire the impressive array of churches, enjoy the beauty spot of Las Fuentes del Marqués, explore the network of fascinating museums, sample the tasty local gastronomy, revel in the annual fiestas, snap up a bargain at the themed pilgrims¿ market and the medieval market, attend the wide range of concerts and exhibitions¿ the list goes on and on! And to make the most of the attractions of the municipality there is a wide and varied range of accommodation. .

How do I get to the Real Basílica of the True Cross?

The Basilica is in the heart of the historic old centre of Caravaca, at the top of the medieval district, and access is via the walled area around the Castle. https://maps.app.goo.gl/9mHsMTRFk8M646A48

What is the legend of the Vera Cruz?

According to tradition, the Caravaca Cross miraculously appears in the 13th century to a priest who is a prisoner, celebrating mass before the curious Muslim lord of the fortress, who, after the miracle, converts to Christianity.

When are the Basilica and the museums open?

The opening hours of the Basilica are as follows:
- Monday to Saturday 8.00 to 14.00 and 16.00 to 19.00.
- Sundays and public holidays: 10.00 to 14.00 and 16.00 to 19.00.
The museums are open at the following times:
- Monday to Saturday 10.00 to 14.30 and 16.30 to 19.30.
- Saturdays 10.30 to 14.00 and 16.30 to 19.30.
- Sundays and public holidays: 10.30 to 14.00.

When is the Pilgrims' Mass held?

Every day of the year at 12.00 in the Real Basílica de la Vera Cruz.

Where can we eat?

Caravaca boasts and rich and varied gastronomic tradition which is certain to satisfy all tastes and dietary needs. Links: https://www.turismocaravaca.com/en/where-to-eat

Are there guided tours available?

Both the Town Hall Department of Tourism and a range of private guided tour companies offer services of this kind.
https://www.turismoregiondemurcia.es/es/visitas_guiadas/
Guíasmur (Servicios Turísticos de la Región de Murcia): Tfno.: 616717 888 - info@guiasmur.com

What is Las Fuentes del Marqués and how do I get there?

Las Fuentes del Marqués is a natural beauty spot not far from the city centre, dominated by water, which in turn means that it is full of green, leafy vegetation. This is a perfect place to take a relaxed stroll and enjoy nature, and it is regulated by a Sustainable Usage Plan to ensure its preservation. For the rules and other interesting information consult this website: .
https://lasfuentesdelmarques.com/

Where is the Museum of the Wine Horses?

The Wine Horses (Caballos del Vino) of Caravaca are the protagonists of a unique annual race which has been recognized by UNESCO as an event of Intangible World Cultural Heritage. The Running of the Wine Horses takes place during the Fiestas of the True Cross, which are held at the beginning of May.
When participating in the fiestas the horses are adorned with exquisitely embroidered shawls featuring various colours of silk as well as gems and silver and gold beading. The animals participate in a competition for the best harnessing and decoration, the race to the castle and the "Caballos a Pelo", and to understand their significance and the history and development of the fiestas you can visit the museum in the heart of the old city centre.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TWAhDXX9gBQoFYru7

How to I get my Jubilee and Pilgrimage Credentials?

The papal Plenary Indulgence is awarded at a religious ceremony in the Real Basílica de la Vera Cruz.
There are two kinds of Credentials. One way of achieving them is to download the relevant app directly on your mobile phone, while the other is to acquire them at any of the parish churches along the Caminos de la Cruz pilgrimage routes.
Your credential can be stamped at any church or tourist office along the recognized "Caminos", and there are also other affiliated establishments which are allowed to provide stamps.
If your accumulated stamps demonstrate a distance covered of at least 50 kilometres, you can collect your "Caravacensis" upon arrival at the Real Basílica de la Vera Cruz. If you haven't covered the required distance, you can request a special diploma stating that you have visited the Basilica. More Information Are there public toilets in Caravaca?

Yes, in and around the Paseo Santa Clara: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CQzmgUv3XF7JQCTQ8
Also at the Centro de Acogida al Peregrino (the pilgrims' welcoming centre): https://maps.app.goo.gl/PeziMuqwuLJu1VMu8
and the municipal sports complex: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xbP9gm5zoaVzcSuX7

Where can I park in Caravaca?

Zona Paseo Santa Clara: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CQzmgUv3XF7JQCTQ8
Calle Mayrena: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NHmPNWNmcRhwrBH3A
At the Apeadero: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JL2XX5uhRaaFdQso8
Sports complex: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xbP9gm5zoaVzcSuX7
Closeto the railway station: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7iNboNgTNDC55pTWA

Where can we stay in Caravaca?

Caravaca de la Cruz has a wide range of visitor accommodation to meet a variety of preferences and requirements. https://www.turismocaravaca.com/en/where-to-sleep

Walking, hiking and cycling route information.

Nature has been especially kind to this part of the Region of Murcia, providing beautiful landscapes and scenery. Exploring the countryside on foot, on two wheels or on horseback provides relaxation and comfort for both body and soul. Vía Verde del Noroeste: https://www.turismoregiondemurcia.es/en/vias_verdes/

Is there a parking area for caravans, motor homes and camper vans?