Things to do in Murcia, Region of Murcia: The Best Churches & Cathedrals

Reviewed By Kelleygirl2 - Sarasota, United States

Surprisingly beautiful inside at the 17th century religious Santuario de La Fuensanta, Our Lady of the Holy Fountain. This Baroque-style sanctuary honoring the Virgin Mary is perched high with lovely views of a natural park overlooking the city of Murcia and the Segura valley. The church’s construction began in 1694 and the final touches of the facade, designed by Toribio Martinez de la Vega, were completed in 1705. The facade reliefs and sculptures were designed by Jaime Bort and completed by Joes Balaguer. The inside, although not enormous as other religious structures, gives a warm and intimate feel, as though you were immediately welcomed upon entering. Passing the pews, at the far end, the altar has a spectacular gold statue of the Madonna that rises above and behind the figure of Christ. The dome ceiling that hovers over the altar is white, blue and silver, a beautiful contrast setting off all that darker gold below. When we were there, fresh bouquets of white flowers decorated the altar. Adjacent to the church is the convent and a Benedictine Monastery nearby where Jesuit priests were quietly praying in these early morning hours.