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Villajoyosa Moors and Christians, 

Villajoyosa, Spain

 
24 Jul 2010 - 31 Jul 2010  

Villajoyosa's festival of Moors and Christians has been running for over 250 years, commemorating an event in 1538. Berber pirates, led by one Zale-Arraez, tried to attack the town but Santa Marta came to the rescue by causing a flash flood which wiped out the enemy fleet. Santa Marta became patron saint and the fiesta became an annual fixture. There are marches and processions of costumed 'armies' in the days leading up to 28 July, when the spectacular landing is held. Crowds of people arrive at the beach as early as five in the morning. While the Christians prepare their artillery, over 30 Moorish vessels draw near. They make landfall and a battle ensues, spreading to the foot of the castle, which is eventually taken by the Moors. There is a great deal of ceremonial exchange before (not to give too much of the story away) events reach a happy conclusion. Gastronomic competitions, open-air dances and firework displays form part of the celebrations.

Times
Various.


History  Music  Exhibitions  Entertainment  Spectacle  Religion 


Where?

Various locations in Villajoyosa

Beach, streets and castle in central areas of town

Getting There

Foot: Most locations are accessible on foot from the centre of Villajoyosa
Road: Villajoyosa is 30km (19 miles) northeast of Alicante
Bus: Regular services from across the region

How Much?

Free.

For More Information

Oficina de Turismo, La Villajoyosa

Avenida Pais Valencia 10 bajo
Villajoyosa
Alicante
03570
Spain

Tel +34 966 851 371
Email 

Website  www.villajoyosa.com

Future Events

01 Jul 2011 - 31 Jul 2011
Date to be confirmed

Where
As above

More Information
As above


Event Organisers Corner



 

 

 

NB: While every care has been taken to ensure the information provided is accurate, we advise you to check with the event organisers before travelling to confirm the details are correct.