| History of Lorca
Lorca was known by the Romans as Illurco and to the Moors as Lurka and is perhaps now most famous for the incredibly spectacular Holy Week processions (depicting and enacting a great journey through history and which are broadcast on national television). These encompass numerous different floats each depicting a different phase of Lorquina history, roman soldiers, Cleopatra, Nero, the devil, some 2 hours of history in action. This is further enlivened by the tradition of the two brotherhoods, the blue and the whites (azules y blancos). The main streets are converted into elevated areas with each brotherhood representing just one side of each street! The brotherhoods compete against each other in terms of horsemanship, their floats (or pasos) carrying realistic life size reproductions of the Last Supper, the crucifixion, the suffering of the Virgin Mary and Christ and so on. It’s a unique spectacle that defies written description and must be experienced at least once in your lifetime.
Lorca´s urban centre was declared ´A Town of Historical and Artistic Interest´ in 1964, and has an important baroque heritage. There are various archaeological sites, the Columna Miliaria dating from Roman times, the Espolón Tower and the Alfonsina Tower, a Christian construction dating from after the Reconquest; the ´Porche de San Antonio´, the gate through the old wall that surrounded the city (in the 10th century), plus numerous churches and convents dating from different periods and built in different styles (15th century to the 18th century), the baroque palaces and stately homes, such as the Guevara Palace, the Palace of the Counts of San Julián to mention just a few. The traditional paved streets around the Plaza de España, show off the architecturally interesting buildings imbued with strong traditional character, such as La Zapatería y La Cava. Local restaurants such as Casa Candido have incredible vaults below the main dining area and a polite request at a quiet time could allow a closer look. Lorca still retains its its traditional craftwork, producing items such as ceramics, wall and floor carpets, intricate embroidery and iron forging.
During the 18th century, a number of baroque style churches were built in Lorca. Together with the noble houses in the old town, which are currently being restored, these demonstrate the pride local Lorquians take in their town and historical monuments.
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