Murcia Tourist Information - Around Murcia - Aguilas

Aguilas

This is a picturesque port city with a rich historical legacy. It has been inhabited since the Paleolithic times; but it attained importance in the reign of Charles III. The port acted as a departure point for the rich agricultural produce of the valleys. The 19th century saw Aguilas reach greater heights of prosperity. Mining of Iron, lead and silver was carried out on a huge scale. It is during this time that the railway line and the famous Hornillo Pier were constructed here by the British companies.

The coastline offers tourists a variety of activities to choose from. The coastline is rugged and there are several coves here around which you can go exploring. The fine sandy beaches have managed to retain their natural beauty. Places like coves of Playa de Calarreona, Playa la Calabardina, Playa de Calacerrada, Playa del Arroz, Playa del Hornillo, are places where you will get to experience the pristine beauty of the countryside.

Aguilas Coastline

Modern Aguilas is a tourist attraction with a wonderful coastline and historical monuments. The tourist industry is an important commercial resource. The infrastructure and facilities are very good and varied to suit individual needs.

The most remarkable sight is the Castle of San Juan de las Aguilas which still stands beautiful and grand in the old quarter of the city. The church of San Jose houses the statue of the city’s patron saint and is worth a visit. The town square “Plaza Espana” is a must see for its beautiful ancient gardens, a pretty fountain with a sawn in it, and the modernist buildings which surround it. Here you will also see the Town Hall dating from the 19th century with a Neo-Mujedar façade.

San Juan de las Aguilas

The Railway monument, Roman baths museum, archeological museum, and the Carnival museum are some other important sites to visit while in Aguilas

Roman Baths	Carnival Museum	Aguilas City

You can enjoy the whole range of sports and adventures here. There is a “Villa Nautica” created specially for tourists. Sailing and diving can be best enjoyed here. There are sailing and diving clubs; offering light cruises material rental, monitors, etc. They also offer sailing and diving courses along with guided diving expeditions. There are underwater coves, exquisite marine life and sunken ships to be explored. There are two ships which have been converted into an artificial reef in Calabardina- a favourite with the tourists.

Activities like walking and trekking should be undertaken for the pleasure they afford. The walking trails are very well sign posted and all along there is striking natural beauty to be enjoyed. On some of the trails you will also come across archeological site and hidden monuments from ancient times.
Aguilas is also famous for its Carnival- an annual gala with a 200 year old legacy. It has been declared an event of National Tourist Interest. It attracts people from all over Spain, and its highlight is the National Salsa contest.