In the city centre, you can find the Julián Romea Square, previously known as "La plaza del esparto".

Julián Romea, (1813-1868), was a famous Murcian actor, considered to be one of the stars of the national theatre. He was well known for his natural manner and excellent recitals.

In this square, the theatre, which also carries the surname of the actor, stands out. The building was opened in 1862 under the name of "Teatro de los Infantes" (princes' theatre), it then became known as "Teatro de la Soberanía Popular" (Theatre of the people's sovereignty), and finally became "Teatro Romea" on the death of the aforementioned actor. During the 19th century, the theatre suffered two spectacular fires (1877 and 1899) and after the last one, all that remained were the walls. Reconstruction work after the fires, and the important restoration in 1985, have meant that this monumental theatre has been inaugurated on a total of four occasions.

It is a building with an eclectic facade showing Neo-classical and modernist inspiration, standing out because of its two colours, pink and grey. The busts on the upper central part represent Beethoven, Mozart and Listz and on the windows there are four medallions with reliefs of other Murcian playwrights.

Outstanding inside the beautiful theatre is the painted ceiling, by Antonio de la Torre and Inocencio Medina. It represents the coronation of Julián Romea by the muses and the offering of the coat of arms of the city to this actor and poet.

The curtain, a gift from Maria Guerrero, represents music, poetry and drama.

This theatre, property of the municipality, is one of the most important in the Spanish theatrical circuit and is highly appreciated as much by its audience as by its artists, for its beauty, comfort and extraordinary acoustics.

romea@forodigital.es