In Spain, the most well-known pilgrimage is undoubtedly the Camino de Santiago. However, there is another destination that attracts thousands of pilgrims each year for reasons of faith, history, and spirituality: Caravaca de la Cruz, in the Region of Murcia.

This city holds the honour of being one of the five holy cities of Christianity, and its sanctuary houses one of the most venerated relics in the world: the Vera Cruz.

 

Caravaca de la Cruz: one of the five holy cities of Christianity

The title of “holy city” is rare. Only five cities in the world have this distinction: Jerusalem, Rome, Santiago de Compostela, Santo Toribio de Liébana, and Caravaca de la Cruz.

The recognition was granted by Pope John Paul II in 1998, along with the celebration of a perpetual Jubilee Year every seven years. This is a privilege that, until then, was only shared by Santiago de Compostela in the Spanish-speaking world.

This distinction makes it a meeting point for believers. They can obtain plenary indulgence by pilgrimaging to its basilica during jubilee years or at other times under certain religious conditions.

 

History of the Vera Cruz and the origin of the pilgrimage

The devotion to the Vera Cruz of Caravaca comes from a story that blends faith and legend.

According to tradition, in the 13th century, a priest was taken prisoner by the Muslims to the city. There, he was asked to celebrate Mass, but without a cross on the altar, the ceremony was suspended. It was then that two angels descended from heaven carrying a cross with double horizontal arms: the relic of the Vera Cruz.

Beyond the legend, the relic —a splinter of the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified— was guarded for centuries by various religious orders. Today, it remains the spiritual core of the city and the driving force of the pilgrimage.

 

The Camino de la Cruz: routes, stages, and duration

Though more religious in nature, the Camino de la Cruz is inspired by the Camino de Santiago. Additionally, it offers pilgrims different routes to reach Caravaca. The two main routes are:

  • Camino del Apóstol: Starts in Roncesvalles and covers approximately 900 km to Caravaca, connecting with the Camino de Santiago at Puente la Reina. It is the longest and most spiritual route.

 

  • Camino del Levante: Begins in Orihuela, Alicante, and heads into the interior of Murcia. It is around 120 km and is currently the most travelled route.

 

Both routes are well marked, have hostels and services, and pass through landscapes of great beauty and cultural heritage. The Camino de la Cruz is not only a religious route, but also a cultural and natural one.

These two are the most popular, but there are a total of 8 ways to reach Caravaca, though, except for the Camino del Apóstol, the other routes are just over 100 kilometres long.

 

What to see in Caravaca de la Cruz besides the basilica

Although the Sanctuary of the Vera Cruz is the main attraction, Caravaca offers much more to the visitor:

  • Real Basílica-Santuario de la Vera Cruz: Situated on a hill within the medieval castle, it is the heart of the holy city. Its baroque style and its interior filled with symbolism impress the pilgrim.

 

  • Caravaca Castle: A 15th-century fortress offering views over the entire city.

 

  • Museum of the Festival: Dedicated to the most famous celebrations of Caravaca: the Fiestas de la Santísima y Vera Cruz, featuring the Horses of Wine, declared of International Tourist Interest.

 

  • Paraje de las Fuentes del Marqués: A natural space near the city, perfect for pilgrim rest.

 

  • Baños de Archivel: Natural thermal baths known since Roman times, ideal for relaxing after the route.

 

Pilgrimage to Caravaca vs. Camino de Santiago: two routes of faith with their own soul

While Caravaca de la Cruz and Santiago de Compostela share a deep Christian root, each pilgrimage has its unique essence. Both offer unforgettable spiritual and personal experiences, but they differ in history, scale, and type of pilgrim.

The Camino de Santiago is one of the oldest routes in the world, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its path extends for thousands of kilometres across Europe (as you may know, it includes sections in Portugal and France).

Thanks to the infrastructure developed over time, many pilgrims opt for an organised Camino de Santiago which allows them to enjoy the experience with services such as luggage transport, accommodation, and assistance.

Among the most notable routes of the Camino de Santiago are:

  • The Camino Santiago from Ribadeo, part of the Northern Way, runs along the Galician coast with stunning seaside landscapes and well-marked stages.

 

 

  • The Camino Santiago from Tui, the starting point of the Portuguese Way in Galicia, is ideal for those with little time, as it covers the last 100 km needed to receive the Compostela.

 

Caravaca, on the other hand, offers a less crowded route, allowing for a more intimate connection with the surroundings and faith. Additionally, most of the routes to Caravaca are still in the process of consolidation, making it an attractive option for those seeking something more authentic and less trafficked.

 

When to pilgrimage to Caravaca de la Cruz? Key dates

The best time to take the Camino de la Cruz depends on the pilgrim’s interests:

  • Jubilee Year: Held every 7 years (the next one will be in 2030). During these years, there is a very special atmosphere with thousands of pilgrims and religious, cultural, and festive activities.

 

  • 1st to 5th May: The Fiestas de la Santísima y Vera Cruz, with the Horses of Wine, are one of the most unique celebrations in Spain. It is worth planning your arrival to Caravaca during these days.

 

  • Spring and autumn: Mild climates, ideal for walking long distances without extreme heat.

 

Practical tips for planning your pilgrimage to Caravaca

  • Accommodation: Caravaca offers hostels, rural houses, guesthouses, and hotels. During high season or jubilee years, it is advisable to book in advance.

 

  • Signage: The 2 main routes are well-marked (unlike the other 6), but it is advisable to carry GPS or maps if opting for secondary paths.

 

  • Equipment: Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a walking stick, and a light backpack are essential. It is also advisable to carry water and some food if crossing rural areas without services.

 

  • Services for pilgrims: In Caravaca, it is possible to get the pilgrim’s credential and the pilgrimage certificate, similar to the Compostela.


Caravaca de la Cruz is not only a holy city, but also a pilgrimage destination with its own soul. Its history, landscape, and deep spirituality make it a complementary —and not exclusive— alternative to the Camino de Santiago. Whether for devotion, culture, or inner adventure, the Camino de la Cruz deserves a place in the heart of every pilgrim.