Basilica of the Most Holy True Cross, Caravaca de la Cruz, Spain
Caravaca de la Cruz, often called Caravaca, is a historic town in southeastern Spain. It is located in the Region of Murcia, near the River Argos, a tributary of the Segura. The town also serves as the capital of the region’s northwest area. In 2010, Caravaca had 26,449 residents, showing clear growth from 15,846 in 1900.
In 1998, Pope John Paul II officially declared Caravaca a Holy City of Catholic Christianity. As a result, it joined Rome, Jerusalem, Santiago de Compostela, and Camaleño in that distinction. Since that time, Caravaca has hosted a jubilee every seven years. The first was in 2003 and included a visit from Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, who later became Pope Benedict XVI. By 2010, the second jubilee had welcomed over one million visitors. Consequently, the city’s religious festivals gained recognition as events of International Tourist Interest.
At the heart of the town, the Santuario de la Vera Cruz stands as its most iconic religious site. This medieval complex contains convents and a parish church. It preserves relics believed to be fragments of the True Cross. Each year, a major festival is held from May 1 to 5. Typically, it includes religious processions, Moors and Christians parades, and the unique Horses of Wine event. Currently, that celebration is under review for UNESCO cultural heritage status.
In addition, Caravaca has a strong industrial and archaeological legacy. The nearby hills provide iron and marble. These supported local industries, including ironworks, tanneries, and food production. In 2009, archaeologists uncovered 1,300 ancient graves. Altogether, these elements reflect Caravaca’s layered cultural identity.
Basilica of the Most Holy True Cross, Caravaca de la Cruz, Spain
Airways
The nearest major airport to Caravaca de la Cruz is Alicante-Elche Airport, located around 150 km away. Another option is Murcia-San Javier Airport, which is approximately 95 km from the town. Both airports offer regular flights from major European cities.
Railways
The closest railway station to Caravaca de la Cruz is Caravaca de la Cruz Railway Station, located about 2.5 km from the Basilica. You can travel by train from major Spanish cities like Madrid and Valencia to Lorca or Murcia, and then take a bus or taxi for the remaining journey.
Roadways
Caravaca de la Cruz is accessible by road from several nearby cities. The town is located about 115 km from Murcia, 190 km from Alicante, and 350 km from Madrid. Buses regularly depart from these cities, with services connecting the town to the wider region.
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