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The free walking tours in Orihuela are a great way to gain insight into the rich history of the town. In addition to the fixed walking routes such as the one about 'essential Orihuela', the night walk and the tour in the name of Miguel Hernandez (the most important inhabitant), groups can also request their own marked walks led by a guide.
The 'essential Orihuela' walk is the most popular. The name says it all. This compact tour delves deep into Orihuela, especially in Roman times. The capital of the Vega Baja area houses an enormous wealth of objects of great historical importance in the city centre.
There are no fewer than 5 important churches that are definitely worth a visit. The cathedral is an important attraction. It was built in the 13th century on the remains of religious buildings of previous rulers, in particular the Visigoths and the Moors. In 1281, the Spanish king dictated that the main church of Orihuela should be built here. The plan was to build a large and monumental building. And that was the case, but it took until the 18th century before it was finished. It is therefore logical that quite a few different architectural styles were incorporated: Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque.
The other four churches in the medieval centre are also well worth a visit during a walk. The Santo Domingo church is mainly known for its overwhelming interior. The Santiago church houses many art treasures. The Las Santas Justa y Rufina church is particularly striking when walking because of its striking high, square tower. This church houses many religious statues.
Behind this church lies the entrance to an underground part of Orihuela's rich history. In the wall museum you will find excavations of old Arab houses from the 12th century, a series of bathhouses and rudiments of the old city wall. For more information see here.
Finally, there is the Palacio Episcopal church where the museum of religious art can be visited. A completely different walk focuses on the work and life of Orihuela's most famous 'son': the poet Miguel Hernandez. For more on that see here.
