| Every year, in the last week of July, the
town of Villajoyosa on the Costa Blanca comes alive with the famous Moros
y Cristianos festival. Officially Declared as being of interest to tourists,
it alone is worth the trip to Villajoyosa. For several years now, we haven't
missed out on our chance to spend a week at this wonderful, gigantic party.
The parades with their more than 5000 costumed participants, the procession
of Santa Maria the patron saint of the village, the castle that is built
on the main square for the occasion, all of this to the solemn but brilliant
music of the "bandas de musica, the odor of gunpowder in the air, the
din of all the fireworks, and the fantastic colors of the costumes...
all not to be missed!
The festival commemorates the failed attack on the city by pirates and
Arab troops from El-Azraq in 1538 against Christian forces. Of all the
festivals in the region, Villajoyosa's is really the most spectacular.
The re-creation of the troops landing on the beach unfolds in a kind of
joyous chaos. The naval battle with more than 50 boats landing on the
beach, reaches its climax with the ultimate defense of the village and
the victory of the Christians over the infidels... |
The costumes of the 3 to 4000 participants are outstanding. They change
from year to year. Made from leather, fabric or metals, each participant
saves up a about a month's salary to actively participate in the event.
For his part, the moor king spends tens of thousands of pounds for his
"pena", his parade costume.
There is always a reason to celebrate, to participate in parades, play
music all over town, show yourself off, drink, eat and to party!!!
If you have the opportunity, don't hesitate to come to Villajoyosa. The
landing of boats on the beach at daybreak, and the fireworks shot off
over the sea make this one of the most surprising festivals in Spain.
We're going back this year! We never get tired of it!
Last year, the association Santa Marta used its website to do a webcast
of the parades using a webcam. If all goes well, they should do the same
this year. We will keep you up to date. |
France :