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Anecoop's main partner in organically grown fruits and citrus
added a potential 1,000 tons of organic stone fruit after signing a commercial agreement with Calasparra's Bio Lobrot S
the largest producer of organic stone fruit in Murcia
The company is increasing its portfolio of organic stone fruit through Bio Lobrot S
and platterines it produces from the end of April to July in 20,000 trees on its estates between Cieza and Calasparra
as well as its solar-powered sustainable packaging warehouse
Toñifruit strengthens its position as a reference within the organic fruit segment
adding another 1,000 tons of organic stone fruit to its offer to continue betting on organic fruit and its development in Europe
The two warehouses will remain operational and will specialise in product lines
strengthening the company's structure and saving costs by avoiding duplication of processes
It creates a stronger company by pooling capacities
and making more efficient use of resources
with access to a larger volume of business and using the same marketing channel
cost savings are generated by implementing economies of scale that avoid duplication of processes
it forms an association of farmers committed to environmental
This strategic step responds to the new features of Toñifruit's fruit center in Librilla
in which it has invested 4 million euros in high-tech and improving the packaging warehouse
This technological investment is in line with the possibility of being able to select stone fruit by color and quality
thanks to the fruit selection equipment installed two seasons ago
and currently incorporating Artificial Intelligence
Since the estates in Calasparra are more than 350 meters above sea level
Toñifruit will have a stone fruit supply until July
and cool nights during spring and summer will allow the company to offer consistent fruit with high sugar content to address European markets
"It is one of the highest altitude orchards for organic stone fruit in Spain," stated Juan Antonio Martínez
The management of both companies has expressed satisfaction with this important step
which is the result of mutual trust and a shared strategic vision
"This alliance strengthens Toñifruit's position as a benchmark in this segment," stated Juan Antonio Martínez
stressed that this action "is the commitment of a family to strengthen and promote an agricultural model that the European Union has been working to promote for years and that is part of its strategic plans for the future."
"We are boosting the availability of organic stone fruit in international markets
the least available fruits of the organic range in the whole European market," Martínez stated
The agreement comes in a context in which the consumption of organic stone fruit in Europe is quite limited
with France and Germany as the markets with the highest demand
but very far from the levels of other categories
German demand for organic stone fruit closed below 12,000 tons in peaches and nectarines
"Our goal is that our customers can offer higher volumes of sustainable organic fruit so that there is greater availability in all European markets," the director of Toñifruit stated
The operation with Bio Lobrot is not the first in this sense
Toñifruit closed a social integration agreement with the Almeria-based company Albentillas S.C.A
in November 2023 to gain structure in the organic segment
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By Maura Maxwell2025-04-24T14:41:00+01:00
Murcian cooperative Toñifruit has formed a strategic alliance with another regional grower
packing and sales of its range of organic stonefruit
The deal adds another 1,000 tonnes of organic stonefruit to Toñifruit’s organics portfolio
Calasparra-based Bio Lobrot produces a wide range of apricot
flat peach and plantain varieties between late April and July on its farms between Cieza and Calasparra and operates a sustainable packhouse powered by solar energy
Toñifruit said the alliance will boost efficiency and save costs by combining capabilities
consolidating production volume and making more efficient use of resources
The cooperative’s two packhouses will remain operational
Toñifruit recently invested €4mn in state-of-the-art sorting and packing technology that uses AI to sort fruit by colour and quality at its packhouse in Librilla
maintaining stonefruit supplies until July
Bio Lobrot’s farms are located at more than 350m above sea level
making it one of the highest-altitude stonefruit farms in Spain
the sunny days and cool nights in spring and summer allow it to grow fruit with high sugar content and uniform quality to meet European demand
would “improve the company’s position as a leader in this segment”
said it emphasised his family’s commitment “to strengthening and promoting an agricultural model that the European Union has been working to promote for years and which is part of its future strategic plans”
The agreement comes at a time when consumption of organic stonefruit in Europe is quite limited
with France and Germany being the markets with the highest demand
but far below the levels seen in other produce categories
Around 12,000 tonnes of organic peaches and nectarines were sold in Germany in 2023
“our intention is for our customers to be able to offer a larger volume of sustainable
organic fruit so that the product enjoys greater availability in all European markets”
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with air temperatures 8 to 12 degrees above seasonal norms throughout the week
The western and southern coasts of the Mediterranean country are already experiencing extreme heat
The heat wave is expected to plague the Aegean sea the hardest
and some fear that rising temperatures could cause wildfires
A holiday village in the Olympos resort in Antalya's Kumluca — where the temperature is expected to reach 39C by Friday — has already succumbed to the flames
Most of the wooden houses burned down within a few hours
A large fire broke out in the Paphos district of Cyprus
According to Fire Service Spokesperson Andreas Kettis
the fire has threatened homes in the nearby village of Psathi
Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides has requested assistance from Jordan to put out the fire
He was in the neighbouring country for a scheduled state visit with the King Abdullah II of Jordan
the Jordanian head of state has ordered additional aircraft to help Cyprus with the firefighting efforts
Two aircraft from Greece are also expected to arrive to assist in the operation
a yellow warning for rain was put in place
more than 50 litres per square metre accumulated in one hour in areas of the northwest
Calasparra and the Altiplano were the worst affected areas
Between 60 and 65 litres per square metre fell in an hour in the Murcian town of Calasparra on Monday afternoon
Farmers confirmed that considerable damage has been done to trees
Late-ripening fruit has been most affected
as well as the vegetables that were planted there
It has destroyed everything," said one farmer
more than 15,000 hectares affected between the towns of Cieza and Calasparra."
Heavy rains caused severe flooding in many parts of the Spanish island of Mallorca
The adverse weather caused flooding at the island's airport in Palma de Mallorca
Footage showed puddles inside the building while roads were flooded outside the airport
and no major casualties have been reported
The heavy rains in the Balearic Islands have broken records
with up to 53 litres per square metre falling at Palma Airport
incorporated in England and Wales (company number 15236213)
having its registered office at 4 Bouverie Street
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rains and hail in the Spanish region of Murcia have caused losses worth 48 million euros
according to a report drawn up by technicians of the Regional Council of Water
A total of 7,583 hectares have been affected
Cieza and Calasparra are the most affected municipalities
and livestock farms," says regional Councilor Sara Rubira
"This represents a new setback for our agricultural producers and livestock farmers."
The Councilor pointed out that "unfortunately
the long-awaited rains have also been accompanied by hail and torrential rainfall
which have had a severe impact on the course of the horticultural campaign
"Once we have completed the final damage assessment
the Government of the Region of Murcia will start the procedures for the Government of Spain to declare the affected areas a disaster area
This will allow agricultural producers and livestock farmers to receive aid that should alleviate the situation they are going through," says Rubira
the rains have hit 470 hectares of apricots
There are damages on 421 hectares of chards
the most affected municipalities have been Albudeite
with losses worth a total of 4,038,869 euros
the municipalities of Calasparra and Cieza have been affected
specifically 4,860 hectares devoted to apricots
Source: www.carm.es
Frontpage photo: © Mike Ricci | Dreamstime
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The Hôtel Métropole opened the new venue in place of Joël Robuchon’s establishment
Christophe Cussac’s brigade is ready
the new gastronomic restaurant ‘Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac’ offers its customers a unique experience in elegant
designed by the interior architect and decorator Jacques Garcia
all the waiting staff are as pleasant and helpful as they are professional
and the camaraderie between the different members of the team adds a fresh
without detracting from the impeccable and original service
with no fewer than 19 different types of bread
all prepared locally by the restaurant’s baker
because each of the A la Carte dishes is tastier than the next
there are small ‘bites’ for the indecisive
There is a substantial list of smaller dishes
so you can have a taste of whatever you would like
Note that the tasting menu contains eight dishes to share for the whole table
Michelin Guide 2023: how did Monaco’s and the Côte d’Azur’s restaurants fare?
Another wooden trolley tempts you with 15 indulgent desserts
or strawberry and raspberry tarts for red fruit fans
You can also enjoy tasty sweet treats such as macarons in the colours of the Monegasque flag
Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac promises an absolutely unique experience
a former disciple of the twice-starred Joël Robuchon
Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac is definitely an excellent address
paying tribute to the previous Les Ambassadeurs
a restaurant that the hotel opened in the 1920s
where the biggest names in the aristocracy and diplomats from around the world would love to meet up … and feast
The September celebrations in Calasparra are in fact three events rolled into one
a traditional autumn fair and a "Romería" all taking place within the same week as the heat of summer dies down
The Fiestas of the Santos Mártires San Abdón and San Senén
The main religious celebrations of the patron saints take place in July and originally the events which accompanied them
the two parts were separated in the 19th century and held at different times of the year
The autumn "feria" centres around the age-old traditions of livestock fairs dating back to medieval times
cattle farmers would bring their livestock down to the fairs for sale
and the events grew into sociable occasions with entertainment
music and plenty of other goods and services on offer for the duration
Murcia has a number of livestock fairs in September
and this one in Calasparra focuses on the two great obsessions of the area: rice and bullfighting
when the council were trying to revitalise the economy following economic recession
merging the religious celebrations of the two patrons with the livestock sales
Nowadays there is no livestock fair and bull-related events have become the core element of the week
with the "encierros" or bull runs attracting more spectators than any other
These take place at 10.00 every morning for the duration of the six days of the bullfights
At 10.00 the bulls which will be participating in the evening events run a 1-km course through town
with the young bloods running in front of them
It's over in about 5 minutes and is televised for those who would rather enjoy the safety of home than risk being in the streets: people do get injured
normally because they trip or become over-confident
While many expats are offended by any coverage relating to bullfighting
its very difficult to separate the Feria from the bulls as there is such a strong following in the north-west of the Region of Murcia
Nearby Caravaca and Cehegín both have busy bullrings and the bullfights during this week are invariably sold out
Alongside the bullfights is the "Recinto ferial" at the end of Gran Vía
and the inevitable stalls which accompany the Ferias
as well as fairground and musical entertainments
Romería of the Virgen de la Esperanza
The Virgen de la Esperanza has been venerated in Calasparra since the early 17th century
and although she was brought down into the town sporadically over a period of several hundred years
this Romería in her honour didn´t begin until the early 20th century. She was named Patron of the town in 1840
The Romería de la Esperanza is always celebrated on the evening of 7th September with the main religious events on the following day.
The Murcia region kicks off the Spanish organic stone fruit season
"a few weeks earlier than in previous years
The campaign kicked off at the beginning of May
with the Calasparra production zone in the Murcia region
where our grower Antonio produces our full range of organic stone fruit: apricots
nectarines and flat peaches," explains Iris Gil Mena
This production zone promises good stone fruit production
thanks to a mild winter and good temperatures at the start of the year
The season will continue with the Seville region
which is showing more precocity due to the hot weather and warmer winter experienced in the Andalusia region
we need to be vigilant in choosing the early varieties we offer to our clients
and do not have all the selection criteria (sugar content
we will be able to offer fine products fairly early in the season
the areas with the latest production dates
This region is more sensitive to climatic hazards such as frost
rain and other phenomena that can affect stone fruit production
The area experiences micro-climates that can vary from one kilometer to the next
Our growers can count on a wide geographical presence in the Catalonia region to cope with bad weather and be more resistant to climatic hazards
The production forecasts are very good so far
predicting a fine harvest with more volumes than last year."
A promising and high-quality seasonProduction promises to be rich and good
"We are off to a fine start to the campaign
This means that the trees are bearing well
producing a lot of fruit of fairly large size
northern Spain has not yet experienced the frosts that generally occur in March/April
Our growers' orchards and flowering have not been affected
so we are satisfied with the start of the season so far
and relatively confident for the coming months."
Thanks to its network of growers throughout Spain
Frutas Goostar is extending its stone fruit campaign as much as possible
in order to be able to supply its customers over a wide period (from early May to mid-September)
Demand is still timidIn terms of consumption
although the first apricots were available at the end of April
the company preferred to wait until the beginning of May before launching the season
due to a lack of sunshine not really encouraging consumers to turn to these summer fruits
we feel that the demand is there and that consumers want summer products
They have been eating winter produce for a long time now
and are keen to switch from citrus to stone fruit
But since consumption depends on the weather
the rain in France and northern Europe have caused the demand to remain relatively timid
We hope for better weather to start setting in
a premium and exclusive brand strategyThrough its Labella Bio brand
Frutas Goostar is positioning itself in the organic fruit and vegetable distribution market as a supplier of a premium
"Faced with a sector where competition is strong and choices abound
we had to offer our clients something other than a simple generic parcel and an organic product that is not highlighted and promoted
The Labella Bio brand stands out for its exclusivity
This network of producers is selected according to strict specifications
"This top-of-the-range selection enables our producers to make the most of their produce and market it at a better price
high-quality work carried out by our producers
and this means enhancing the value of their products in terms of price
The brand is marketed throughout France via wholesale markets
as well as independent wholesalers and distributors
Our aim is to export to European markets (Belgium
Good launch to the watermelon seasonBesides organic stone fruit
the company has launched the organic watermelon season
"We offer organic striped mini watermelons from Andalusia (Nijar-Almeria)
The first ones arrived at the end of April
and the campaign will last until the beginning of September
even if crops are currently suffering the repercussions of last month's rains in Andalusia
but the consumption of watermelons will depend highly on the temperatures and sunshine in France in the coming months."
For more information:Iris Gil MenaFrutas Goostar SL[email protected]https://www.frutasgoostar.com/
For many people summer in the Costa Cálida is limited to soaking up the rays on the beach and enjoying sundowners in a seafront restaurant or chiringuito
but a great alternative is to try a different kind of soaking by rafting down the River Segura as it winds its way through the countryside of Calasparra
Some excellent rafting experiences are offered in this area
and among those that stand out is the one promoted by the regional tourist board
which combines a descent of the river with a hearty lunch featuring the famous Calasparra rice – this is highly prized among top restaurants and is considered one of the optimum varieties for making specialities such as paella
The experience was awarded Certificates of Excellence in 2018
2019 and 2020 and has also won a Traveller's Choice prize on TripAdvisor: the organizers boast a 5-star rating on all of the most important tourism portals
Part of the attraction can be attributed to the stunning setting in one of the most beautiful areas of the Region of Murcia
the protected area of the Almadenes Canyon
where guides explain the history and pre-history of the riverbanks and the surrounding area
The trip even includes a visit to the Cueva de los Monigotes
where the pre-historic rock art on the walls of the cave are included as part of one of UNESCO’s World heritage Sites
Aside from this evidence of early human settlement in the area
visitors also enjoy the wildlife along the river
where at least 150 species of flora and fauna thrive at the foot of the canyon walls
The trip downstream to the Alfonso XIII reservoir takes approximately three and a half hours (all morning or all afternoon) and can be adapted to suit all ages
All necessary material is included in the price
including the services of qualified guides
And after working up a healthy appetite, participants repair to a nearby restaurant to enjoy what is described by the locals as “the best rice in the world” – and while in their neighbourhood
but the orientative figure is 45 euros for adults and 39 euros for children under 12
CLICK HERE FOR ONLINE BOOKINGS or call 609 559939
specifying that English-speaking guides are needed if this is the case
PLEASE NOTE: A minimum group size of 8 is required in order to ensure the visit can take place
Sources include the Region of Murcia tourist board (www.turismoregiondemurcia.es)
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The Plaza de la Corredera is the most important square in the town of Calasparra and is centrally located in the heart of the old quarter
It has been re-modelled several times and today contains modern sunshades and paving
although it still retains the historic fountain which was built in the year 1785 during the reign of Carlos III
The plaza is the venue for many of the cultural and festive events in the municipality and is a popular meeting point for routes and communal activities
restaurants and residential buildings and is a good point to pick up local bus services
Click for further information about the Calasparra municipality in the north-west of the Murcia Region
GRIFO ABIERTO EN MORATALLA. pic.twitter.com/Nl3mdyRrea
Imágenes cedidas por @defensaforeMUR de su intervención en las inundaciones de Las Torres de Cotillas. Cuatro brigadas con un total de 34 efectivos están desplegadas en la zona. pic.twitter.com/FgJ4zAlEMl
there was speculation about the possibility of a significant drop in cauliflower production
and while official figures certainly reveal a 12.4% drop compared to the previous year
the reduction is not as significant as that of other open-ground productions
according to data from the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture
we will have the same production as in previous years
we are more focused on quality than on quantity
we target smaller markets," said Miguel Ángel Sánchez Salmerón
"Our production is more focused on the winter when there is no local production in Europe due to the weather," he said
The readjustment of the supply after the end of the Central European productions translates into more attractive prices for imported products
cauliflower prices in the first week of October increased by 64% compared to the average of the last 5 seasons at origin and by almost 72% at the warehouse
Broccoli also recorded significant increases
with prices between 165 and 170% higher than average
driven by the hasty end of European productions
Regardless of the volumes available on the market
Miguel Ángel says that these prices "were necessary since costs have increased a lot
and we needed them to cover the production costs."
Distinet produces and markets a wide range of fruit and horticultural products in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula
"We have always bet on differentiating products
in kakis with our own production in the Region of Murcia
We think it is an interesting product to work with after the stone fruit campaign."
They also produce another very exclusive basic product: romanesco broccoli
the product has offered interesting price stability
which has motivated us to bet on its production
but always bearing in mind that we aim to produce top quality products and not large quantities."
The Cine Rosales in Calasparra is an outdoor cinema and auditorium within a walled enclosure
It is widely used during fiestas and celebrations
as well as for outdoor cultural events during the warmer months
It is also home to the municipal Belén (nativity scene) at Christmas period
There is parking in the surrounding residential streets
Tickets for events at the auditorium are generally sold in the Town Hall or by the organisations planning specific events
Join the Murcia What's On and Where to Go group on Facebook to keep up to date with all the latest events taking place near you: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MurciaWhatsOnAndWhereToGo/
Click here for further information in English about the municipality of Calasparra
Cañaverosa is the only one of the three nationally recognized nature reserves in the Region of Murcia to be located on land
with the other two both being marine (those of Cabo Tiñoso and Cabo de Palos-Islas Hormigas)
The reserve, which was created in 1992, occupies an area of approximately 225 hectares in the far north-west of the Region, straddling the municipal boundary between Moratalla and Calasparra and following the course of the River Segura
Very soon after it was declared official it was badly affected by the forest fire which broke out in 1994
but since then the riverbank flora and fauna have recovered well alongside the upper reaches of the River Segura
where the tributaries of the Río Mundo and the Río Alhárabe meet
green environment made all the more attractive by its sharp contrast with many other parts of the Region of Murcia
and the leafy canopy is provided by a variety of trees including willows
poplars and shelters plants such as oleanders
The vegetation also makes it the perfect home for numerous animal species
and although the area has also been home to human settlements over the millennia – prehistoric rock art has been found in the Abrigo de los Pozos – the reserve is practically untarnished by the hand of Man
visitors will appreciate the spectacular landscape
where over the millions of years the river has carved canyons up to 60 metres deep
A visit to the reserve begins for most people very close to the spectacular sanctuary of the Virgen de la Esperanza in the municipality of Calasparra
From here it is possible to look out over the rice fields on the plain which is watered by the river
and it is then only a short walk to the reserve of Cañaverosa
and after passing the spring of Las Juntas the path crosses the Alhárabe and a small fruit orchard before reaching the forest
with the woods interrupted only by streams before the route rises to another viewing point
How to get to the natural reserve of Cañaverosa
The Sotos y Bosques de Ribera de Cañaverosa reserve is only a short drive from the centre of Calasparra
heading out of town on Calle Ordóñez and crossing the main RM-714 road which leads from Jumilla to Caravaca (the exit from this road should be the point of reference for those approaching from out of town)
The sanctuary of the Virgen de la Esperanza is clearly signposted
The simple visitors centre provided in the reserve is open only at weekends from 10.00 to 15.00
Click for Spanish language pdf about the reserve
Police authorities from Lorca and Elche police stations in Spain raided six cannabis plantations and seized 2,181 plants
13 members of the group of Albanian and Spanish nationality
11 house checks were carried out in houses located in the Murcian cities of Calasparra
Albatera and Tibi in Alicante. The operation followed a months-long joint investigation between police units
as agents were aware of the possible existence of various cannabis plantations located inside country houses in the two provinces and allegedly run by the same group composed of mainly people of Albanian nationality
Italians and Spaniards. According to information within the criminal network
a division of functions was created among the members of the group
The first level dealt with the location of houses
while the second one rented them with false documentation provided by the Albanian members
a third group made up of members with the necessary technical knowledge was responsible for assembling the plantations
with a fourth in charge of cutting and drying the plants for subsequent transport outside Spain. Finally
the investigators managed to locate a total of 11 houses
distributed throughout the Alicante and Murcian area
while the rest were used as 'drug warehouses'
where the main people involved stayed and hid the money of the profits
Plenary Session Terminated after Tensions in Assembly Hall
Opposition MPs Climbed through Windows to Enter Assembly Offices
Tirana-Besiktas Match Suspended Due to Incidents
Strong Security Measures for Bill Clinton's Visit in Tirana
DP Accuses PM of Ignoring Albanians Living in Survival Conditions
Processions have been taking place in Calasparra in celebration of Semana Santa since the 15th century
an estimated 25% of the entire population of the town involved in the events in one way or another during the important celebrations of Easter week
There are five "Cofradías" or brotherhoods involved in the organization of the events
and most of the "pasos" (or sculpted figures) are new
This is due to the majority of the older ones having been destroyed during the Civil War betewen 1936 and 1939 and the Peninsular War in the early 19th century
Figures paraded by the Antiquísima Cofradía del Santísimo Cristo de la Sangre
Santísimo Cristo de la Sangre (1944
Santa Mujer Verónica (1943, José Díez
Figures paraded by the Cofradía de Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno
Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno (17th century
San Pedro (1944, José Díez, Valencia)
Sagrado Corazón Resucitado (1950, Talleres de Olot)
Figures paraded by the Real Cofradía de San Juan Evangelista y la Dolorosa
San Juan (1944, José Díez, Valencia)
La Dolorosa (1944, José Díez, Valencia)
Dulce Nombre de María (1998, Juan José Páez Álvarez
(1996, Juan José Álvarez Buendía
Figures paraded by the Cofradía de la Samaritana
La Samaritana (1944, José Díez, Valencia)
Santa María Magdalena (2004, Juan José Páez Álvarez, Calasparra)
Figures paraded by the Cofradía del Ecce-Homo
Ecce-Homo (1944, José Díez, Valencia)
Santa María Salomé (1996, Juan José Páez Álvarez
Semana Santa in Calasparra follows the standard pattern of processions in most towns
telling the story of the last week in the life of Christ
and includes an interesting representation of the capture of Jesus in the Gardens of Gethsemene
known here as "El prendimiento de Jesús en el Huerto de los Olivos."
A theatrical representation takes place in the street
a squadron of Roman Soldiers given the task of arresting Jesus
The same group also star in a unique event on the morning of the day of Resurrection: having been given the responsibility of guarding the tomb of Jesus
they flee upon seeing the image of Jesús Resuscitado
trying to hide as they are pursued and cornered by the Virgen de la Dolorosa
Viernes de Dolores (the Friday before Palm Sunday): Vía Crucis
The Paso of El Cristo de la Sangre parades in a Vía Crucis
9.00: Mass in the church of Los Santos Mártires
11.00: Blessing of the palms and olive branches in the church of Los Santos Mártires
followed by a procession to the church of La Merced
On the same day the figure of Ecce-Homo is transferred into the town from his sanctuary and during the procession there is an "encuentro" (meeting) with the figure of the Virgen de la Dolorosa
17.00: Mass in the church of Ecce-Homo
arrival at the Iglesia de San Pedro at around 20.00
20.30: Transfer of the image of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad
Constitución al Templo de San Pedro
Holy Wednesday: the taking of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemene
ending with the appearance of the figures of Jesus and Saint Peter
Pasos: San Pedro and Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno
21.30: a procession in which all the Cofradías participate
Route: Church of San Pedro Apóstol, Plaza de la Constitución
Constitución to the Templo de San Pedro
4. Santísima Virgen de la Soledad
10.00: Procession arade of the journey to Calvary
in which all the Cofradías participate
Constitución to the church of San Pedro
4. Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno
5. Santa Mujer Verónica
6. Santísimo Cristo de la Sangre
Constitución and back to the church of San Pedro
23.00: Midnight vigil in the church of Nuestra Señora de la Merced
In the Plaza de la Constitución the appearance of Jesus Arisen takes place
9.00: Mass in the church of Los Santos Mártires
10.30: Procession of the Resurrection
3. Ángel Alegórico
5. Santa María Salomé
Plaza de la Corredera (where the encuentro between the Resucitado and La Dolorosa takes place)
Constitución and back to the church of San Pedro.
11.00: Resurrection Mass in the church of Nuestra Señora de la Merced
10.30: Transfer of the image of Ecce Homo from San Pedro to its own church
Upon arrival a Misa Huertana (musical Mass)
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As the cold of winter begins to make its presence felt in the north Murcia town of Moratalla everything is now prepared for the Beer and Tapas Festival which opens at 12.00 midday on both the 16th and 17th November at the Recinto Ferial (click for map)
The tapas on offer are prepared by the catering wing of Dilka Eventos and the wide variety of beers to sample includes various brewed by both San Miguel and Mahou
there is also a delicious dessert prepared by Cremoso Postres
For more upcoming events in the Region of Murcia go to the What’s on section of Murcia Today
Boutique Hotelier
The Nitery by Gizzi Erskine will open from 13 February to 30 April
and will bring a ‘playful take’ on classic French
is to take up a three-month residency at St Martins Lane in London from February
>>> Join the Murcia Weather Watch Facebook group for more weather updates or see our Weather & Climate page <<<
Not all weekly markets are set in stone, and if they coincide with public holidays they may be cancelled or postponed. In addition, days can change, so if you're not sure a call to the relevant tourist office is advisable to avoid a wasted trip (click tourist offices in the region of Murcia for more information)
As a general rule the weekly markets are open from 9.00 to 14.00
and for those from abroad are especially attractive as they offer an opportunity to buy fresh products and bargain clothes
Many also feature a range of products from plants and flowers to frying pans
baby clothes and electronic equipment: the larger the market
full of colour and noise as shoppers jostle for space
stand and socialize and generally enjoy the experience of shopping at a relaxed pace
choose stalls that have prices clearly marked and always ask for the receipt so you can check you've not been overcharged
Traders are obliged by law to give a receipt with a purchase
so don't be shy of asking for one if you feel the bill may not be correct
It's always advisable to check the bill and make sure that the correct price per kilo has been charged and the number of items you have corresponds to the receipt.(tícket or tiquet)
otherwise you will end up with more than you want and you'll be given the bruised items - this is not a cynical remark
crowded areas such as markets tend to attract them all the world over
everyone does and thats half the fun of it all
In the north-west of the Region of Murcia the weekly markets are as follows (listed by municipality):
Every Friday morning: click for further information
Every Thursday morning: click for further information
Every Tuesday morning in and around Gran Vía Manuel López Carreño: click for more information
Friday is market day in Calasparra in the area around Avenida Primero de Mayo: click for more information
The weekly general market is held on Mondays in and around Calle Corredera: click for more information
The market with around 100 stalls is every Wednesday morning in and around Calle Ciudad de Mataró: click for more information
The Wednesday morning market is held in and around Avenida de Abarán: click for more information
with stalls in and around Calle Ramón y Cajal
Plaza Juan XXIII and Avenida Juan Carlos I
The main weekly market is held every Tuesday in and around Avenida de Levante: click for fruther information
The market is held twice weekly in and around Oltra Moltó
A Saturda morning market in and around Calle Lucas Egea: click for further information
The weekly market of Mula is held every Saturday: click for more information
Friday mornings in and around the Calle Mayor
Every Tuesday morning in and around Calle Manuel de Falla
On Wednesdays there is a general market outside the main Plaza de Abastos
footwear and all kinds of items as well as food
and on Sundays there is a huge out-of-town market event from 9.00 to 15.00 at “El Mercaico”
on the C-3223 road which leads to Pinoso in the province of Alicante
Click for more information about these events and the daily food markets in Yecla
Spain’s gastronomic food scene is world-class, defined by its unique approach to combining traditional recipes with impeccable contemporary style and the finest produce. The Region of Murcia is very much part of this culinary story. As the Gastronomic Capital of Spain 2021, the Region of Murcia invites visitors to discover the home to some of Spain’s finest produce and most captivating restaurants
Cuisine and sights of the region of Murcia
This autumn we headed to southeast Spain, to the Region of Murcia, home to the cities of Lorca, Cartagena and the capital, the city of Murcia. It is probably fair to say that this is a ‘hidden’ corner of Mediterranean Spain, sometimes overlooked in favour of its better known neighbours, Andalucia to the south and Valencia to the north, writes Andrew Forbes (The Luxury Editor)
In recent years the South and Mediterranean coast of Spain is increasingly being recognised for its wealth of culinary traditions
Spain’s food revolution started in the north
with award-winning Michelin star restaurants emerging in Catalonia and the Basque Country
These have historically been the gastronomic heavyweights of Spain – now it’s the turn of the south
As Spain’s Capital of Gastronomy for 2021, the region of Murcia is now enthusiastically tempting visitors with a ‘1001 flavours’
It’s a fascinating region ranging from the beautiful Mediterranean Costa Cálida coast
abundant orchards to vineyards leading up to pine forests and mountains
Here’s our guide to what to order and where to eat
Here’s our recommendations of where to eat in the region of Murcia:
2-star Michelin Chef Pablo González and his team have an extraordinary culinary research lab where they experiment and create new dishes. For guests at Cabaña Buenavista Restaurant
that means an extraordinary storytelling experience
where each dish takes you through the region of Murcia
from the aromas and flavours of its pine-clad mountains of the Sierra Espuña across the fertile plains of rice
to the Mar Menor and beyond to the Mediterranean
This spectacular new dining and entertainment complex, on the edge of Murcia’s capital city, will surprise, and amaze. Odiseo brings together the showmanship of Las Vegas
with the contemporary gastronomy of the region of Murcia
This is where your food desires are promised to be satisfied
This temple to fun and food includes a notable fine-dining restaurant with Michelin star fine-dining by Chef Nazario Cano
For a more informal and Mediterranean vibe
then head up to the stunning roof terrace for cocktails and gourmet sharing plates
maybe head to the glamours casino and try your hand at one of the gaming tables
What better way to get a taste for the region of Murcia, than through its wines? The boutique winery, Lavia Bodegas
in the Bullas wine area is the place to go for a personalised wine tasting with gourmet cured hams and cheeses – you won’t feel guilty as you’ll have enjoyed a walk through the vineyards
Cartagena on the Mediterranean coast is one of the most emblematic cities of the region of Murcia
It’s a favourite now with cruise itineraries as it offers an array of restaurants for foodies
as well as a wealth of history including spectacular Roman ruins
Universal Restaurant is where you can live the Mediterranean lifestyle
starting your culinary adventure with a local Colinas 5 gin & tonic
Exploring the region of Murcia is a pleasure. Authentic Spanish villages punctuate the diverse landscape. If you are tempted to head to the fascinating and picturesque holy city of Caravaca de la Cruz (north-west of Murcia capital), then stop off for lunch in the rural hamlet of Cehegín, where you’ll find La Almazara, a charming restaurant
Specialities include home-cooked rice dishes
Unmissable flavours – here’s what you must order when travelling in the Region of Murcia:
Tapas are an integral part of the food scene in Mediterranean Spain
Marineras Murcianas is a great example of a small bite that is truly traditional yet prepared with the best ingredients for a culinary treat
Essentially this is ‘Russian salad’ made from eggs
potato and tuna mixed with olive oil mayonnaise is a Murcia speciality
‘Cordero Segureño’ is a rare breed from the region of Murcia
Mediterranean Spain is the place for rice dishes
the local rice grown in Calasparra has been recognised as amongst the finest in the world
It is often prepared to a traditional fisherman’s recipe
using a flavoursome stock made from rock fish
The ‘ensalada murciana’ is a favourite side dish or tapa made with local peeled tomatoes
and cuquillo black olives from the region of Murcia
Look out for cured meats like lomo as well as tasty sausages
round ‘pastel del carne’ is the street-food of the region of Murcia
Spiced meat and chato chorizo are wrapped up in swirled
This soft and creamy Murcia artisan goat cheese has designation of origin protection (PDO)
giving the rind a distinctive colour and aroma
This is something I had not come across before in Spain
It seems to be very specific to the region of Murcia
Aromatic leaves from the region’s lemon trees are ‘wrapped’ in a batter of flour
It’s there to add essential oils to the crispy batter
Long before Andalucia dominated Europe’s growing of fruit and vegetables
Murcia was Spain’s kitchen garden and orchard
these lands have long produced some of the most priced
Unique coffee from the ancient port city of Cartagena
a café Asiático is coffee mixed with sweet
condensed milk and the regional Licor 43 liqueur
There is a myriad of small volume wineries across the region of Murcia’s three DO appellation regions of Yecla
One of the most popular red wine grapes is Monestrell
This is the emblematic beer of the region of Murcia; a refreshing
light Pilsner-type lager with a distinctive malt flavour that dates back to 1963
The Region of Murcia also offers a wealth of activities in nature
from sailing and diving to hiking and cycling
Andrew is a Marketing Communications consultant
His career in PR and marketing spans 30 years
He writes regularly on international wellness
and lifestyle themes with a particular passion for the Mediterranean and the Americas
Andrew Forbes has lived in the US and France but now calls southern Spain his home
where he is a specialist in hospitality marketing and content
as well as a Contributing Editor for magazines and newspapers
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A new Latin restaurant at the Valletta Waterfront
the key element of which is the authenticity of the ingredients
is proper Calasparra rice (a short-grain rice grown in the area around the towns of Calasparra
Murcia) and is shipped directly from Spain
The lounge element lies in the combination of the elegant and stylish design of the vault with a relaxed and informal ambience through the lighting
Caliente is at Vault 16 at the Valletta Waterfront
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