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One of the features of the fine summer weather in the Costa Cálida is that the night sky is almost always a spectacle of stars and planets, with the temperatures making it the perfect place to chill out and wonder at the enormity of the galaxy.
Among the most impressive sights in the night sky every August is the Perseid meteor shower, which peaks between the 10th and 13th of the month, and gazing up into the heavens is a particularly rewarding experience in years when this coincides with a new moon so that the light from shooting stars does not compete with moonlight.
That is just one episode, though, and throughout the summer lying back in the garden or on the beach and staring up into the milky way is a favourite pastime. What follows are a few suggestions for enjoying and learning about the stars in the Region of Murcia this summer:
Guided tours at the astronomy observatory of Cabezo de la Jara in Puerto Lumbreras
A range of events and activities are held throughout the year at the Observatorio Astronómico del Cabezo de la Jara in Puerto Lumbreras and on summer nights special visits are available on Wednesday and Saturday nights. The one-hour tours begin at 22.00 in July and August and cost only 2.50 euros, with under-10s welcome free of charge! For further information and reservations click here.
In addition, a special free evening of observation of the night sky is being held on August 12 to coincide with the peak of the Perseid meteor shower.
The ancient site of La Bastida under the stars
La Bastida was a hugely important Argaric settlement as long as 4,000 years ago, leading to some referring to it as “The Troy of the West”, and a series of evening visits are being laid on this summer.
During the visits to the remains of this mysterious settlement close to Totana an astronomer helps participants to identify the pole star as well as various constellations and their mythological connotations.
The dates for these visits during the summer of 2022 are July 30 and 31, August 26 and 27 and September 23 and 24: click the links for further information and booking instructions.
Moonlight visit to Monte Arabí in Yecla
On July 23 a special atronomy evening walk is being held at the mystical mountain of Monte Arabí in Yecla, home to prehistoric cave art and a location which has fascinated men since prehistoric times. The visit includes telescope observation and could spark a lifelong interest in astronomy!
Click here for further information and bookings.
The Perseid meteor shower at Lorca castle
A special evening on August 11 at the Fortaleza del Sol, the magnificent castle of Lorca which proved impregnable in the Middle Ages, to enjoy the shooting stars of the meteor shower in a historical setting.
Take a look at the night sky through a telescope while the tour guides offer information, stories and anecdotes about the most prominent stars and constellations - and combine the evening with dinner in the Restaurante Caballerizas de la Fortaleza del Sol!
Children are welcome, with special workshops, activities and games for the youngsters.
Click here for further information and bookings.
The Perseids in the Sierra Minera on August 12
The interpretation centre of the Las Matildes mine in the Sierra Minera, the mountains of Cartagena and La Unión, is also being held on August 12, with the spectacular old mining landscape making a perfect backdrop for a night of stargazing.
A great chance to try some night sky photography while learning about the legends and myths inspired by the heavenly bodies being observed, while separate activities for children are also on offer.
The evening begins at 20.00 with tickets priced at 8 euros (6 euros for children): click here for further information.
