Caravaca de la Cruz, a city nestled in the northwest of the Murcia region, is steeped in history and religious tradition. It is one of the five holy cities in the Catholic world, renowned for its veneration of the Holy and True Cross (also known as the Cross of Caravaca), a relic believed to contain a fragment of the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified.
The city's historical significance is evident in its architectural heritage. The old town boasts architectural elements from various periods, including the parish church of El Salvador and the Carmen convent. The Castle of the Encomienda, a former Templar fortress, houses the Basilica of the True Cross, the focal point of local devotion.
Caravaca's religious heritage is celebrated through the annual “Caballos del Vino” festival, a UNESCO-recognized Intangible Cultural Heritage event. This spectacular horse race dates back to the Middle Ages and involves elaborately adorned horses galloping up to the castle. The event attracts thousands of visitors every year.
The city's religious significance is further highlighted by the Camino de la Cruz de Caravaca, a pilgrimage route connecting Caravaca with various locations across Spain. Similar to the Camino de Santiago, this route allows pilgrims to experience the beauty of the Murcian landscape while following a centuries-old tradition.
Caravaca's rich cultural heritage extends beyond its religious traditions. The city boasts a medieval market that has become one of the best in Spain, transporting visitors back in time with its artisan stalls, traditional cuisine, and street performances.
The recent visit of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia to Caravaca de la Cruz during the Jubilee Year further underscores the city's importance as a religious and cultural destination in Spain.