Los Urrutias, 2023
Last summer, I was lucky to stay for a few days in this coastal town. During the hottest days of summer, I managed to be surrounded by water. I really got to enjoy this place thanks to my friends who showed me around, and we had the best time together. However, it’s not the story of my vacation that I find of huge interest, but the landscape and surroundings.
It’s not a usual place. I was in a coastal town with beaches, and on the horizon, quite close, you could see islands and a thin line of buildings just above the sea. There is a small sea connected to the Mediterranean, called the Minor Sea (Mar Menor), and there’s a fine line of land (La Manga) that was filled with buildings for people from the center of Spain to spend the summers there. It’s situated between two seas—a salty lagoon and the Mediterranean.
You can see the duality of a wonderful place that has undergone a sad transformation. This part of the coast and the beaches used to be wonderful, crystal clear, and filled with life. Now it’s filled with green algae and jellyfish where the water is good, further from the beach. Right on the shore, it’s muddy, and you can find foam, algae, and jellyfish on the shore—cleaned in the mornings.
The water temperature was amazingly warm, and no more than a few meters at its deepest. There were flamingos near the harbor, salty small lakes close by, boats, plain streets, and nearby hills and towns to explore. It’s a place still screaming “vacation” for those who care to go back.
Check some of the story of the place here*
Now, enjoy the view.
* Los Urrutias, the history of recent times
“Los Urrutias, nestled along Spain’s Mar Menor in Murcia, once epitomized coastal paradise with its clear waters and vibrant marine life. However, recent years have brought significant challenges.
Intensive agriculture in the Campo de Cartagena led to nutrient runoff into the Mar Menor, causing eutrophication. Excessive algae growth depleted oxygen, turning once-clear waters murky and harming marine life. Urban development added pollutants, as construction and inadequate sewage treatment compounded the problem.
Climate change and extreme weather events exacerbated these issues. Heavy rainfall increased runoff, and rising temperatures intensified algal blooms, worsening water quality. Historical industrial activities, including mining, left heavy metal pollution in the Mar Menor.
Despite these challenges, Los Urrutias retains its charm. The village still attracts visitors with its warm climate, picturesque views, and opportunities for water sports and relaxation. Local efforts to combat environmental issues include stricter agricultural regulations, improved wastewater treatment, and initiatives to restore the Mar Menor’s natural environment.
Los Urrutias’ journey underscores the importance of environmental stewardship. Its enduring appeal highlights the need to protect and preserve such coastal paradises, balancing a storied past with a hopeful future.“
*Written with the help of CHATGPT
September 22nd, 2024|
