December 22 Free guided tour of the old church of Yecla
Tras las Huellas de Isabel is a visit to the church of La Asunción in Yecla
This guided tour in Yecla focuses exclusively on the Iglesia Vieja, the old church, and concentrates on its long history, its architectural characteristics and of course the decorative elements which adorn the interior.
More correctly known as the Iglesia de la Asunción, the “Iglesia Vieja” also contains an interesting museum in which exhibits related to the annual Semana Santa celebrations are on display, adding a local cultural dimension to the building.
Work first began to build the church between 1508 and 1512, and when it was completed and consecrated in 1540 the figure of the patron (the Santísimo Cristo del Sepulcro) was transferred from the chapel of the castle. Further building took place throughout the 16th century and it remained the main church of Yecla until the completion of the Basílica in 1868.
The visit begins at the church at 10.30 and although there is no charge prior registration is necessary online here.
Further information about the tour and about Yecla in general, including the visits to wineries in the municipality, is available from the tourist office (Plaza Mayor, telephone 968 754104, email turismo@yecla.es). There is a maximum of six people per booking.
For more local events, news and visiting information go to the home page of Yecla Today.
Address
Plaza Mayor, Casa de los Arcos, s/n 30510 YECLATel: 968 754 104
Oficina de Turismo de Yecla
Yecla is a large municipality in the north of the Region of Murcia, home to just under 35,000 people, and these days is best known for its wines, which enjoy Denomination of Origin status, and its furniture production, which has its origins in the abundance of pine trees on the mountainsides and the high plateaux.
While visitors in the 21st century may be attracted primarily by wine tourism, the town (or city, as it was proclaimed in 1878) also has a wide historical, cultural and natural heritage, and an identity quite different from the coastal areas of the Region of Murcia. For this reason it is often grouped together with its neighbour and fellow wine-producing area Jumilla as part of the Altiplano area.
Yecla borders with Castilla-La Mancha and the Region of Valencia and is closer to Alicante coastal areas than much of Murcia. These visitors come to see the historic old town itself - an atmospheric and interesting place, crammed full of history - the natural beauty of Monte Arabí, with stunning views for those who enjoy the outdoors, the gastonomy and of course the wine route.
Yecla boasts cave paintings from 10,000 years ago in Monte Arabí, a Bronze Age settlement at El Arabilejo, Iberian remains in El Pulpillo and a Roman administrative centre at Los Torrejones as well as the remnants of the 11th century Moorish castle on the hill behind the town. More modern (and complete) testimony to the past are the buildings in the town centre, which include the grandiose Basílica de la Purísima, with its striking blue dome, the archaeological museum and the attractive Plaza Mayor, where the 16th century Town Hall stands alongside the Renaissance Casa de los Alarcos, the clock tower and the old grain store.
The tourist office holds a full selection of leaflets, maps, pre-planned routes, accommodation and restaurant options and information about visiting Yecla for both individuals and groups.
There is parking close to the tourist office, although those driving to Yecla for the first time are advised to park in Calle Perales.
For further information go to the home page of Yecla Today.
Opening hours:
Tuesday to Friday 8.00 to 15.00
Saturdays 10.30 to 14.00 and 17.00 to 19.30.
Public holidays 10.30 to 14.00
Click for map, Yecla tourist office
