Typical Christmas traditions and some of the 2023-24 events in the Region of Murcia!

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Nativity scenes, Christmas markets, the start of the Caravaca Jubilee Year and of course your favourite festive foodstuffs in the Costa Cálida!

It goes without saying that December is one of the most eagerly-awaited months in the Region of Murcia, where people everywhere enjoy all kinds of aspects of the festive season.

Apart from the typical reunions with friends and family and the inevitable “aperitivos”, of particular importance in this part of Spain are the traditional Christmas carols and the dedication to “belenes” or nativity scenes, and the regional tourist board recommend that you make the most of the holidays to revisit some of these traditions of the Costa Cálida.

1. The nativity scenes of the Region of Murcia: true works of art

In terms of nativity scenes, Murcia is the region of Spain which leads the way in terms of both quality and quantity, and there are even various officially certified “belenistas” (those who create the scenes) recognized by the national AENOR body.

At the top of the tree (figuratively speaking) is the nativity scene of sculptor Francisco Salzillo, acknowledged to be among the finest of Spain. This tableau contains over 500 figures and can be seen every year in the Museo Salzillo in the city of Murcia.

But there are a myriad of scenes all over the Region, and wherever you are and wherever you go there are plenty on display! Below is just a small selection of some of the most representative:

● The “Belén de la peña La Pava” in the church of San Juan de Dios in the city of Murcia. This tableau recreates daily life in Murcia around the emblematic Cathedral tower, featuring traditional “huerta” farm dwellings and even the figure of Francisco Salzillo hard at work in his workshop!

Other belenes in and around the city of Murcia can be found (in Spanish) here.

● The Monumental Biblical Belén of Lorca in the patio of the Palacio de Guevara, set up every year by the Asociación Belenista de Lorca, reflects the arts and crafts traditions of the Ciudad del Sol.

● The Municipal Belén of Cartagena in the Plaza de San Francisco recreates landscapes and traditional trades in the Campo de Cartagena – the figures are shown among some of the most recognizable elements of the rich archaeological and cultural heritage of the city, including the Roman Theatre.

● The Living Belén in El Raal is open on Christmas Day, December 26 and 30 and January 1 and 6 (for opening hours click here). Taking part are around 120 residents of El Raa, re-enacting the mysteries of Christmas the Adoration of the Magi (the Three Kings), the Flight to Egypt and the palace of Herod.

2. See the Magna Urbe exhibition in Caravaca

As a prelude to the program for the Holy Jubilee Year in Caravaca de la Cruz in 2024 the “Magna Urbe” exhibition is already open, delighting lovers of both art and history as it focuses on the rich heritage of the city through works of art and archaeological pieces (dating from pre-history and the Middle Ages).

Particularly in the spotlight, of course, is the Apparition of the True Cross, and the story brings visitors up to the 16^th century, in which Caravaca was strongly influenced by Santa Teresa de la Cruz and San Juan de la Cruz, an aspect which contributed to its being named as one of only 5 Roman Catholic Holy Cities in the World.

The exhibition can be seen at the old church of the Compañía de Jesús in Caravaca.

3. Enjoy tucking into Murciano Christmas sweets!

Along with Christmas December sees the “1,001 Flavours of Murcia” showing off their sweeter side, with delightful recipes which have been handed down through the generations. Some of those you simply have to try are listed here:

- Cordiales, known by their fans as “cabello de ángel” (angels’ hair), a festive tradition in the “huerta” farmland around Murcia.

- Marzipan, a speciality in which the Region of Murcia deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as the famous Toledo treat! Here is Murcia the most popular marzipan is made in Moratalla, and is made by beating almond pastry and sugar with egg whites and a little lemon rind. The filling is a smooth cream based on egg yolk, milk and syrup.

- Alfajor, one of the most representative festive sweets of the Region, mainly made in the north-west and the high plateaux of northern Lorca but always a welcome addition to the household all over Murcia!

- Murciatone, a creation made in homage to “huerta” of Murcia and the Italian original “panettone”, which came from Milan. What distinguishes it is the ingredients taken from the typical fruits of the Region, including lemons, raisins from Bullas, Jumilla and Yecla and peaches from Cieza… delicious!

- Torta de pascua, an ever-present in Murcia homes. The most original ingredients include aniseed and orange juice, giving it its characteristic flavour!

4. Christmas markets: a must!

You really should see the “Muestra de Artesanía de la Región de Murcia,” the festive market which is held every year in the Paseo de Alfonso X El Sabio in the regional capital, and let yourself be tempted by the creations of over 90 craftsmen and women.

Among them are potters, crib-makers, jewellers, painters, embroiderers and of course producers of various kinds of food and drink, all of them returning year after year to one of the really essential elements of a true Murcia city Christmas.

Alternatively, if you want to combine your market with a day out on the coast, take a look at the Mercadillo Navideño in Santiago de la Ribera, on the inland shore of the Mar Menor, with entertainment, shows, sweets, gifts, arts and crafts, accessories, clothes and loads more.

5. Special plans for Christmas and New Year 2023-24

Looking for inspiration to enrich your family Christmas this year? How about these ideas?

- Augusteum Cartagena Mágica. Join in these guided visits to find out more about the magical world of Harry Potter and Cartagena, with over 150 exhibits which can be touched by all visitors – adults and children – and all in the special setting of the Roman Augusteum.

- Navilandia. For the third successive year Navilandia is installed at the La Fica venue alongside the river in Murcia, with fun and fairground attractions as well as an ice rink and foodtrucks for all ages.

- Un castillo de Cuento. Have you ever wondered what Christmas was really like in the Middle Ages? Find out by taking part in the festive story-telling and other activities being held over the holidays at Lorca castle and have a Happy Medieval Christmas!

More Christmas plans and suggestions can be found at the regional tourist board website!

Source: ITREM

For more upcoming events in the Region of Murcia visit the What’s on section of Murcia Today.