Cardenal Belluga Square

Cardenal Belluga Square constitutes the monumental heart of Murcia and one of the most representative urban spaces of the city. Located in the historic center, next to the Segura River and very close to the Glorieta, it was born as a result of the great urban transformation that Murcia underwent during the 18th century. Its creation was closely linked to the construction of the spectacular main façade of the Cathedral, one of the masterpieces of Spanish Baroque. When this monumental façade began to rise between 1737 and 1754, the need to open a space that allowed it to be contemplated in all its magnitude became evident, giving rise to the square we know today.

The definitive opening of the square took place in 1759, after years of debates between the municipal council and the bishopric regarding its layout and dimensions. The result was a clearly Baroque-designed space created to create monumental perspectives and enhance the presence of the surrounding buildings.

From an artistic point of view, the square constitutes an exceptional architectural ensemble where different eras and styles dialogue. Presiding over the space is the Cathedral of Santa María, whose Baroque façade designed by Jaime Bort is one of the great milestones of Spanish art of the 18th century. In front of it stands the Episcopal Palace, built between 1748 and 1768, considered the main Baroque palace in Murcia.

These buildings are complemented by various eclectic and modernist constructions from the late 19th century and early 20th century. The ensemble is completed with the annexed building of the Town Hall, designed by Rafael Moneo and inaugurated in 1998. Its construction sparked a great debate in Murcian society, as many believed that its design differed too much from the surrounding environment. However, today it is considered a reference of 20th-century architecture in Murcia and one of the icons of contemporary Spanish architecture.

Belluga Square is one of the spaces where we stop in our "The Best of Murcia" tour, a two-hour journey through the most beautiful and significant places in the city. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information or to make a reservation.