Streets decked out like the Middle Ages, magnificent
processions, exciting mock battles... You are in the middle of
the festival of Moors and Christians: days filled with magic,
legend and spectacle. For over four centuries, this festival has
recreated the historic clash between two cultures in many places
along the Spanish Mediterranean
Coast. Come and get involved in this unique festival in
which thousands of people take part year after year, all trying
to outshine each other in splendour and brilliance.
The festival of Moors and Christians is a
very old tradition that dates back to the 16th century. It
commemorates the confrontation that took place between Moorish
and Christian soldiers in the 13th century over the rule of
Spain. The events are held in honour of the city's patron saint
who also played a decisive role in the battle. Thanks to the
saint's sudden and unexpected intervention, victory went to the
Christians in spite of their being outnumbered by the Moors.
The attraction, grandeur and popular nature of these festivities
have caused them to spread to many parts of Spain, although they
are especially popular in Valencia and Alicante. The festivals
of Alcoy and Villajoyosa stand out for their spectacular nature
and both are recognised as being of International Touristic
Interest. In Villena, the number of participants -more than
11.000- results in never ending parades as one third of the city
population takes part in it. By taking part in this festive
re-enactment, you will have the chance to discover an important
piece of Spanish history, at the same time as you enjoy a
festival which never fails to outshine that of previous years.
Spectacular participation
The start of the festivities is marked by the arrival of both
armies in the city. Beginning in the early hours of the morning,
the streets, balconies and windows fill with people intent on
not missing a single thing. To the accompaniment of music and
with all the pomp and majesty you could hope for, the various
groups that make up the Moorish and Christian factions march in
a martial parade, desperately trying to outshine each others
sumptuous costumes. It tends to be one of the most popular and
impressive events and in certain cases, such as that of Villena, over
10,000 people take part in the march.
Another part of the festivities are the religious ceremonies
held in honour of the city's patron saint. Yet there are still
many more exciting moments awaiting you, such as the spectacular
final battle. It follows the so-called "embajadas" (meeting of
envoys) in the castle, in which each side reads a text in an
attempt to persuade the other side to surrender. Once
negotiations have failed, a mock battle ensues in which
thousands of kilos of gunpowder is used, ending in victory for
the Christians. This battle has a particular flavour in
Villena, where the fight actually takes place in the Castle of La Atalaya
which adds realism and spectacle.
In Villajoyosa, the Moors and Christians
festival has been held for over 250 years in honour of Santa
Marta (St. Martha) and commemorates events which occurred in
1538, when Berber pirates led by Zalé-Arraez tried to attack
Villajoyosa. According to legend, St. Martha came to the rescue
of the townsfolk by causing a flash flood which wiped out the
enemy fleet, thus preventing the corsairs from reaching the
coast. To show their gratitude, the town made her its patron
saint and hold this annual festival in her honour, the main
event being a re-enactment of the Moorish landing.
Villajoyosa is brimming over with fun and merriment during these
festivities. There are also many activities to enjoy, such as
gastronomic competitions, open-air dances, firework displays and
music concerts. Althoug the Moors and Christians is a popular
festival in many parts of Spain, such as that of Banyeres, the
re-enactment of the landing is unique to Villajoyosa and sets it
apart from all other festivals of its kind.
In Alcoy, history, legend and spectacle join hands in a
celebration full of sparkle and fantasy to commemorate events
that took place in the 13th century.
The festival of Moors and Christians is the
biggest event of the year in Alcoy. It is dedicated to Saint
George, a figure steeped in age-old tradition. The festival
dates back to the 16th century and commemorates a battle which
was fought in 1276. At that time, Alcoy stood on the border of
the Muslim-held territories of Spain. There were frequent
skirmishes between the two factions until, on 23 April 1276, the
Moorish troops of Al-Azraq attempted to storm the town.
According to legend, St. George appeared during the battle and,
thanks to his intervention, the Christian army won the day,
forcing the Moors to retreat and never to return. In recognition
of his timely intervention, the townsfolk of Alcoy made him
their patron Saint and promised to hold a festival in his honour
on 23 April every year.
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