Lorca

Lorca, known as the "City of a Hundred Shields" for its noble past, is a monumental starting point for an important branch of the South East Way of St James. This historic Murcian city, with exceptional heritage, offers pilgrims a richly cultural start to their journey. Its profile is dominated by the imposing Fortress of the Sun, a medieval castle of enormous dimensions that offers breathtaking views and a journey through history of the borderlands. The old town of Lorca is a treasure trove of Baroque, with palaces and blazoned houses, and the former collegiate church of St Patrick, declared Historic-Artistic Monument. The city is also famous for its Passional Biblical Processions during its Holy Week, of International Tourist Interest. For the walker, Lorca is a great centre of services, ideal for preparing for a long and demanding journey that ventures into the interior of Andalusia and La Mancha. Starting the pilgrimage here is beginning with an immersion in Spanish art, history, and traditions of the Levant.