To the northwest of the province of Murcia is the town of Caravaca de la Cruz. Among the houses spread around the castle there are fine examples of Murcia’s Renaissance architecture.

One of the main features, its castle, which rises above the houses of Caravaca de la Cruz is of Muslim origin and was later extended in the 15th Century by the Knights Templars and later still passed into the hands of the Order of Santiago.

Fourteen towers guard the sanctuary of the Santisima y Vera Cruz, which was built inside the 17th Century. The façade which was added a century later, is in the baroque style.

The whole site has Historic-Artistic Heritage status and houses the Museum of Religious Art and History. Among its most outstanding pieces are the adornments of the Caballos de Vino (wine horses). These horses, lavishly harnessed, are the centre of attention during the Festivals of Santisima y Vera Cruz, declared to be of national tourist interest.

It is of no surprise that Caravaca de la Cruz is the fifth holiest city in the world after Santigo de Compostela, Santo Toribio de Liebana, Rome and Jerusalem.

This town therefore celebrates Annus Sanctus every seven years. This is a time of jubilee and when plenary, solemn and universal indulgence is granted to all those who make the pilgrimage.