Region of Murcia

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Region of Murcia

General Information
Name	Region of Murcia
Native Name	Región de Murcia
Other Names
Settlement Type	Autonomous community
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	37°59′N 1°07′W
Map
Population
Total	1,493,898
Density	auto per km²
Area
Total	11,313 km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type	Devolved government within a constitutional monarchy
Leader	Fernando López Miras
Time Zone
Standard	UTC
DST	UTC

The Region of Murcia (Spanish: Región de Murcia) is an autonomous community of Spain located in the southeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula, on the Mediterranean coast. It is bordered by Andalusia to the west, Castile-La Mancha to the north, the Valencian Community to the east, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. The region is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and significant agricultural output.

History

The Region of Murcia has a long and varied history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to prehistoric times. The area was influenced by various cultures, including the Iberians, Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors. The city of Cartagena was an important Roman port and retains many archaeological sites from that era.

During the Middle Ages, the region was part of the Kingdom of Murcia, which was established in the 13th century after the Christian Reconquista. It became part of the Crown of Castile and later integrated into the modern Spanish state.

Geography

The Region of Murcia covers an area of 11,313 square kilometers and features a diverse landscape that includes coastal areas, plains, and mountainous regions. The Segura River is the main river flowing through the region, providing vital water resources for agriculture.

The climate is predominantly Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This climate supports a variety of agricultural activities, making Murcia one of the leading producers of fruits, vegetables, and flowers in Europe.

Economy

The economy of the Region of Murcia is diverse, with agriculture, tourism, and industry being the main sectors. The region is often referred to as "Europe's orchard" due to its extensive production of fruits and vegetables, including citrus fruits, tomatoes, and lettuce.

Tourism is also a significant contributor to the economy, with visitors attracted to the region's beaches, historical sites, and cultural festivals. The Mar Menor, a large saltwater lagoon, is a popular destination for water sports and relaxation.

Culture

Murcia has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from its various historical periods. The region is known for its traditional music, dance, and festivals, such as the Bando de la Huerta and the Entierro de la Sardina.

The city of Murcia is home to several important cultural institutions, including the Cathedral of Murcia, the Real Casino de Murcia, and the University of Murcia.

Education

The Region of Murcia has a well-developed education system, with several universities and research institutions. The University of Murcia is one of the oldest universities in Spain, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Also see

• Murcia (city)
• Cartagena, Spain
• Mar Menor
• Segura River
• Bando de la Huerta
• Entierro de la Sardina

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