The "Fiesta" of the Moors and Christians in Alicante

August 17, 2009

One of the major celebrations in Alicante's calendar, the Moros y Cristianos (Moors and Christians) Festival has been celebrated since the 16th century.

The people from Alicante province, on the Costa Blanca are getting ready for this traditional event which takes place in several locations during the month of August.

One of the major celebrations in Alicante's calendar, the Moros y Cristianos (Moors and Christians) Festival has been celebrated since the 16th century.

The age-old traditional festival brings toegether religion, history and street carnival where battle re-enactments take place and people parade in the period costumes of the Moors and Christians.

The festival 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 led the Christians to victory.

The festival is now celebrated also in other parts of Spain, although they are especially popular in Valencia and Alicante.