Caravaca de la Cruz: The Holy City with a Fiery Festival

Caravaca de la Cruz (pronounced kah-rah-VAH-kah day lah krooth) is a small city in northwest Murcia that punches above its weight. It's one of only five Holy Cities in the Catholic world, thanks to a famous relic – the Vera Cruz (True Cross).

But it's not just about religion. The place comes alive in May with the Caballos del Vino (Horses of Wine) festival, a UNESCO-listed event that's equal parts chaotic and beautiful. Think horses, wine, and medieval costumes.

It's a proper Spanish town with narrow streets, baroque churches, and locals who still do the evening paseo (stroll). If you want history without the tourist crowds of bigger cities, this is your spot.

The Holy Cross and castle

The star attraction is the Santuario de la Vera Cruz, a fortress-like basilica on a hill. Inside is the Vera Cruz relic – a piece of the cross Jesus was crucified on, according to tradition. The story goes that angels brought it here in the 13th century.

You can visit the basilica and the attached museum. The views from the castle walls over the town and surrounding mountains are worth the climb alone.

The Horses of Wine festival

If you're here in early May, you'll see the Caballos del Vino. It's a four-day festival with parades, medieval tournaments, and the main event: horses racing up the hill to the castle while people throw wine at them. Yes, really.

The wine throwing is symbolic – it dates back to when knights supposedly used wine to heal their horses' wounds. Now it's a full-on competition with decorated horses and riders in historic costumes.

Old town wander

The historic centre around Calle Mayor is perfect for a slow stroll. Look for:

• Iglesia del Salvador: A 16th-century church with a stunning plateresque facade (that's Spanish for "silversmith-style" carving).
• Museo de la Fiesta: Small museum explaining the Horses of Wine festival. Good if you miss the real thing.
• Plaza del Arco: The main square with cafes perfect for people-watching.

Eat like a local

Caravaca has its own food scene. Try:

• Migas: Fried breadcrumbs with garlic, peppers, and often sausage or grapes. A shepherd's dish that's now a comfort food.
• Yemas: Sweet egg yolk candies shaped like little cones. They're very sweet – have with coffee.
• Local wines: The Bullas wine region is nearby. Try the monastrell reds.

Practical information

• Getting there: By car from Murcia city takes about 1 hour. There are buses but they're infrequent. Driving is easier.
• Parking: There's free parking near the football stadium at the town entrance, then walk up to the centre.
• When to go: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are best. Summer is hot – like 35°C+ hot. Winter can be chilly in the mountains.
• Time needed: A day trip is enough for the main sights. Stay overnight if you want to experience the evening atmosphere or visit during the festival.