The Romans settlers in the Murcia city area named it after the myrtle bushes (Murtia) that grew there in abundance. The Moorish inhabitants fertilised the plain with several channels and water elevation devices, and planted mulberries for their silk industry.

Cultural Attractions

• Cathedral
• River and the Old City
• Casino (19th Century gentlemen’s club)
• Salzillo Museum
• Romea Theatre
• Virgen de la Fuensanta Sanctuary

Interesting Fact
It has been calculated that in 1614 there were at least 400,000 mulberry trees in Murcia, producing more than 95 tons of silk a year.