Murcia is the capital of the Region of Murcia in southeastern Spain, with around 479,000 people in the municipality. The city was founded in 825 by the Emir of Córdoba, Abd al-Rahman II, on the banks of the Segura River and developed into an important centre of al-Andalus, surrounded by the fertile irrigated farmland of the Huerta de Murcia. After becoming part of the Crown of Castile in the 13th century, Murcia continued to grow as an agricultural and commercial centre. Its principal landmark is Murcia Cathedral, begun in the 14th century and distinguished by its elaborate Baroque façade and 93-metre bell tower, while other notable sights include the Real Casino de Murcia, the remains of the medieval Islamic city walls and the lively plazas and pedestrian streets of the historic centre. Murcia is also closely associated with Baroque sculptor Francisco Salzillo, whose religious works can be seen in the Museo Salzillo. The city lies about 50 kilometres inland from the Mediterranean, with Cartagena and the Costa Cálida within easy reach.

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