Did you know that beneath the fertile soil of the Vega del Segura lies one of the oldest and most effective hydraulic systems in Europe? The Huerta of Murcia, far more than just a landscape, is a living legacy of the Andalusi era that continues to nourish both the land and the identity of an entire region.

A Legacy Over a Thousand Years Old

The history of the Huerta of Murcia dates back to the 9th century, when Muslim settlers developed an irrigation system that revolutionised agriculture in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula. Through an intricate network of acequias (canals), azarbes (drainage channels), and norias (water wheels), they managed to divert water from the River Segura, turning an arid land into a productive and sustainable green haven.

Amazingly, many of these infrastructures are still in use today—modernised, yet faithful to their original design. The Water Tribunal, or Consejo de Hombres Buenos, one of the oldest functioning institutions in Europe, still regulates water usage and ensures fair distribution among users. This traditional body, built on community agreements, stands as a shining example of sustainability and water justice—captivating engineers and curious visitors alike.

A Symbol of Sustainability

In an age defined by climate change and the need for eco-friendly agricultural models, the Huerta of Murcia represents a remarkable balance between humans and nature. Its gravity-fed irrigation system, requiring virtually no external energy, has stood the test of time, proving both resilient and efficient for centuries.

Thanks to this ancestral network, crops have flourished from generation to generation, preserving traditional farming methods and increasingly embracing organic agriculture. In this way of life, where water is treated as a precious resource, the values of respect, sustainability and harmony are deeply ingrained in Murcian culture and everyday life.

The Green Heart of Murcian Gastronomy

But to speak of the Huerta is also to speak of flavour. The fruit and vegetables that thrive in this privileged environment form the backbone of Murcian cuisine—one of the healthiest and most delicious in the Mediterranean. Lettuce, peppers, green beans, chard… all fresh, local, and of exceptional quality, with a reputation that has crossed borders.

Dishes such as ensalada murciana, zarangollo, pisto, or the traditional caldo con pelotas carry the unmistakable signature of this living landscape. Local markets and culinary tours invite visitors to savour this heritage at the table, where history and gastronomy go hand in hand.

A Landscape to Explore and Admire

From Posadas de España Cartagena, we extend a warm invitation to discover one of the most authentic and historic landscapes in the Region of Murcia. Enjoy peaceful walks along paths lined with centuries-old canals, explore nearby villages like La Alberca or Aljucer, or join cultural tours that reveal the origins and impact of this irrigation system on local life.

In spring and summer, the Huerta becomes a kaleidoscope of colour and scent—fields in bloom, the gentle murmur of flowing water, and the slow, steady rhythm of farmers at work create an unforgettable experience for all the senses.

The Huerta of Murcia is more than a landscape: it is a flowing story, an inspiring model, and a treasure that must be protected. From your stay at Posadas de España Cartagena, you have the perfect base to discover it up close.