Although fishing plays an important role in the centuries-old history of the communities along the Mar Menor, there is only one museum that is entirely dedicated to this vital industry. The Museum of the Sea in San Pedro del Pinatar focuses on the culture and history of the local fishing industry. Since its opening in 1980, thanks to donations mainly from fishermen, a large collection of diverse objects has been built up that together tell the story of this important source of income.
The permanent exhibition shows a wide variety of traditional nets that fishermen have used throughout the centuries. Old photographs of the work of fishermen and their tough working conditions at sea provide an insight into their daily lives. There is also an ever-growing collection of models of traditional sailing boats as well as emblematic, historic boats and warships such as galleons.
The other, municipal museum in San Pedro is housed in the most logical location. The palace of the former Baron De Benifayo is not only stately in appearance, but also the oldest existing building in San Pedro. Although the town was already populated 2,500 years ago, it only gained some size with a small core in the mid-19th century. That was when the elite from Murcua chose it as the best place for their summer residences because of the climate. The collection includes a wide range of objects. For example, there are fossil remains that were found during a series of underwater excavations. Roman utensils were dug up from the ground where a Roman villa once stood.
Visitors will also find tools and primitive devices that workers and fishermen used in the past. Perhaps a little unexpected for a local history museum is the collection of toys and cinema memorabilia.
Those who have had enough of the inside should take a look at the exterior. In terms of architecture, the museum is a wonderfully eclectic mix of a residential palace with an almost medieval-looking fortress, complete with towers.
The museum has different opening hours depending on the season. For exact information, it is therefore useful to consult the tourist information.
Menu
