Mazarron Murcia
Guide to Mazarron Murcia, a historic town on the Costa Calida, Spain.
Guide to Mazarron Murcia
Mazarron is located in the south-west of the province Murcia in south-eastern Spain, and has been home to Moors, Phoenicians, Iberians and Romans, all of whom no doubt succumbed to the charms and influences of the bay and surrounding area. Situated along the Costa Calida coastline Mazarron is a beautiful and magical place.
Mazarron’s coastal area (Puerto Mazarron) is lapped by the Mediterranean Sea and is known for its history of mining and its mariner's traditions. It was in a significant strategic position, with possibilities to defend a sizeable land area, with an impressive castle and defensive fortified towers. Mazarron's geographical location led to the erection of 3 towers, all of which were built during the Arab occupation of the town. These towers being known as the ‘Caballos’ or horses tower; ‘Cumber’ or summit tower and the ‘Molinete’ or windmill tower.
Mazarron is also renowned for its archaeological and architectural heritage, there are ancient references to the current area of Mazarron, from the Paleolithic Era. In the times of the Phoenicians the area’s superb geographic conditions were utilized as a harbour and port, when the Romans arrived they were attracted by the lucrative mining deposits and of course with its nearness to Cartagena (Cartago Novo). The town's seafaring activity continued throughout the Roman period, exporting large quantities of metal from the various mining reserves that were located in the area. It is also thought that Mazarron was one of the earliest to be mined and the Arabic 'al mezer' (red or ochre) refers to the colours, which can be seen in the surrounding landscape.
In the old part of Mazarron you can find a variety of monuments of historical and artistic interest, with every metre of Mazarron hiding some interesting piece of ancient history. Next to Veles Castle is the religious architecture of the San Andres and the San Antonio de Padua churches, which are both quite stunning. San Andres hides in its interior an impressive Mudejar coffered ceiling, which has been declared a national treasure. Another fine religious building is the La Purisma convent. The historical centre of Mazarron is the town hall (Ayuntamiento) and the wonderful casino, which is eclectic in design with a distinctive spiral staircase. Mazarron’s stunning Sacred Heart of Jesus is situated on the Santa Catalina Mountain and was originall built and blessed in 1924. It was later destroyed during the Spanish Civil War and was subsequently re-built in 1952, using funds donated by the citizens of Mazarron itself.
Mazarron has over 30 beaches and lies below sea level. The bay conceals numerous treasures, with an underwater garden of significant sea fauna, where whales, dolphins and octopi can be spotted in their natural habitat. In fact Mazarron Murcia is one of the primary underwater centres in the Mediterranean Sea. In front of the Palya de la Isla, there are 2 impressive marine treasures dating from the Seventh Century B.C., known as Mazarron I and Mazarron II. These 2 boats from the times of the Phoenicians act as a reminder that Mazarron was formerly an important location for the Phoenicians and these 2 boats are the only ones of their type in existence.
The erosions of Bolnuevo displays a powerful landscape, almost magical. The water and wind erosion of the area have created ever-changing rock formations. Mazarron’s unique landscape is well worth visiting and is a place where you can let your imagination run free. A little further south you will find the lovely town of Aguilas with its fine 18th Century castle.
Mazarron Links: Mazarron Information - Mazarron Map - Mazarron Weather - Mazarron Castle - Mazarron Spain
Other Places: Lorca - Totana - Mula - Sierra de Espuña - Aguilas
Golf Courses: Almanzora Golf Resort - Desert Springs Golf - Spain Golf Courses
Related: Murcia - Cartagena - Los Alcazares - Mar Menor - San Javier - La Manga - Murcia Airport Transfers - Builders
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