2 Best Sights in Murcia, The Murcia Coast

Murcia's cathedral is a masterpiece of eclectic architecture. Begun in the 14th century, the cathedral received its magnificent facade—considered one of Spain's fullest expressions of the churrigueresque style—as late as 1737. The 19th-century English traveler Richard Ford described it as "rising in compartments, like a drawn-out telescope." The 15th century brought the Gothic Door of the Apostles and, inside, the splendid chapel of Los Vélez, with a beautiful, star-shaped stone vault. Carvings by the 18th-century Murcian sculptor Francisco Salzillo were added later. The museum, housed in the 14th-century cloisters, includes several Gothic paintings, Roman remains, and a walkway over the underground archaeological ruins. The bell tower, built between 1521 and 1792, rises 313 feet and offers magnificent views of the city from the top.

Wander north on the pedestrian shopping street Calle de la Trapería and you soon reach the 19th-century casino, which retains the aura of a British gentleman's club. The facade is a mixture of classical and modern styles; the inside, inspired by the Alhambra in Granada, has a patio arabe (Moorish courtyard), some stunning chandeliers in the ballroom, and a large library with more than 20,000 volumes. Despite the name, this has never been a gambling center—locals come to read the newspaper and play billiards.