Only France can claim more international tourists than Spain, with 76 million and 55 million foreign tourists respectively. European crowds are drawn to the nation’s appeal as the archetypal home of a “fun in the sun” holiday. Yet in recent years the Spanish have been increasingly keen to emphasise the cultural delights that Spain has to offer, the result of one of Europe’s most varied and rich history. Amongst the many sites of Spain some of the most enticing to the sight seer come in the nation’s southern region, a part of the country which still bears witness to the Moorish conquest and presence on the Iberian peninsular from the 8th century to the late 15th century. 

A prime example of the appeal of Southern Spain to a tourist interested in the area’s unique heritage is the city of Murcia, founded in 831 by Abd-Al-Rahman II in the centre of the Segura river valley. The remnants of this Moorish rule can be seen in the still-visible city wall, which contrasts strongly with the city's numerous churches. A must-see during any trip to Murcia is the Moorish castle on top of the Monteagudo mountain that can be seen from almost anywhere in Murcia. It was converted to Christianity by placing an "open arms" image of Christ on the top; it is possible to touch Jesus's feet and toes while looking back at the view of Murcia. The style of the Moorish castle strongly contrasts with another highlight of Murcia, the city’s baroque cathedral. Cheap flights to Murcia are available from companies such as Monarch, making for an affordable visit to this amazing amalgamation of different cultures. 

A further city founded by the Moors during their period of rule in Spain is Almeria. The city was founded by Abd ar-Rahman III of Cordoba, in 955, as a principal harbour in his extensive domain to strengthen his Mediterranean defences. Its Moorish castle, Alcazaba, is the second largest among the Muslim fortresses of Andalusia after the Alhambra (a palace and fortress complex of the Moorish rulers of Granada). When visiting Almeria one should bear in mind that it is the driest region in Europe as well as one of the warmest with an average annual temperature of 19 degrees Celsius. Due to this if planning a sight seeing trip to Almeria the more mild temperatures of early spring may offer a more pleasurable experience than the dry heat of summer. Almeria also offers visitors the appealing opportunity of being only a ninety minute drive from the former seat of the Caliphate, Granada. Cheap flights to Almeria are available from Monarch airlines, providing one with a choice between two of Spain’s most intriguing historic towns.