On Aeroplanes and Jazz, and the Lively Town of San Javier

On the southeastern coast of Spain, and right at the northern end of the autonomous province of Murcia, sits the municipality of San Javier. Although relatively small, the town is home to the largest international airport in the Region of Murcia, the Murcia-San Javier International Airport (MJV). The site of the airport was once an airfield used by the Spanish Air Force.

Because of its history in military aviation, San Javier houses the Museo de San Javier (San Javier museum), with various interesting exhibitions, and a decommissioned aeroplane. The exhibits contain information regarding the history of San Javier as an agricultural and fishing town, as well as charts and memorabilia relating to the Spanish Air Force and the town’s history as an Air Force base.

Since 1998, San Javier has become well-known for its annual Jazz Festival, which celebrates the culture and appreciation for jazz music and its very talented composers and musicians. The Festival has been declared by the Region of Murcia as being a Regional Tourist Interest and even attracts music lovers from nearby provinces. San Javier’s Jazz Festival is open to all, and is usually held during the month of July, in and around the streets of Parque Almansa Auditorium.

At San Javier’s town center and based around the church, you can find the weekly street market. This takes place every Thursday morning, and you will also be greeted by a wide array of shops, restaurants, and cafes. There is also a large plaza which is ideal for an afternoon merienda or snack while watching the world go by, or an evening stroll to appreciate the town’s peaceful atmosphere.

During the rainy days, or if one would prefer to spend some of the day indoors, Dos Mares offers entertainment in the form of a cinema, skittle lanes, and pool tables. Located on the outskirts of San Javier, Dos Mares is a large indoor shopping mall with a wide selection of shops, restaurants, fast food eateries and large supermarket.