Alhama de Murcia is a historic inland town located in the Guadalentín valley, between fertile agricultural land and the dramatic landscapes of Sierra Espuña Natural Park. Its position has made it an important settlement for centuries, and the town retains a strong sense of its past alongside everyday local life.
The name Alhama comes from the Arabic al-hamma, meaning “hot springs”, referring to the thermal waters that were used here in Roman and Moorish times. Today, the remains of these ancient baths can still be seen, offering an insight into the town’s early history and its long-standing association with water and wellbeing. After the Christian reconquest, Alhama became a frontier town, and the ruins of its hilltop castle remain one of its most prominent landmarks, overlooking the historic centre.
The old town is compact and easy to explore on foot, with narrow streets, small squares, and historic buildings reflecting its layered past. Beyond the town itself, Alhama serves as one of the main gateways to Sierra Espuña Natural Park, a large protected area known for its walking trails, pine forests, and mountain scenery.
For visitors, Alhama de Murcia offers a quieter alternative to the coast, combining history, access to nature, and a relaxed, local atmosphere that rewards unhurried exploration.
That balance of history, local life and quick access to Sierra Espuña is what makes Alhama especially rewarding if you want to see a more varied inland side of Murcia.
