Moros y Cristianos

The Moors and Christians Festival or “Moros y Cristianos” is a celebration that takes place in Mojacar, a picturesque town in Almeria, Andalusia, every year in June. The festival commemorates the town's history, which saw it occupied by the Moors for over 700 years before being taken over by the Catholic monarchs of Spain.

The festival is based on the historic conflict between the Moors and Christians, which ultimately led to the surrender of the town to the Catholic monarchs in 1488. The town's last Moorish governor, Alavez, delayed the surrender, not as an insult but as a protest against the way the Moors had been treated as foreigners in Spain. He requested that they be treated as brothers and allowed to continue working their land and grazing their flocks. The monarchs acceded to his demand, offering him their friendship and mercy, and Alavez remained loyal to the Christian kings. A marble plaque in the local “Fuente” of Mojacar recounts this story and bears the words: "Very noble and very loyal city of Mojácar. Key and guard of the Kingdom of Granada, 1488” This pivotal moment in the town's history is celebrated during the fiesta.

The “Moros and Cristianos” is a vibrant and colourful event that sees the streets of Mojacar transformed into a medieval battleground, complete with mock battles, processions, and parades. The festival is a showcase of local traditions, with participants dressed in elaborate costumes, re-enacting battles, and historical events both in the village and on the beach.

The Moors and Christians Festival is not only a celebration of the town's history, but it also serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity and respect for different cultures. The festival brings together people of all ages and backgrounds, both as participants and spectators, celebrating the town's rich cultural heritage and promoting a strong sense of community. It is a great way to experience the culture and traditions of Andalusia and is a must-see event for anyone visiting the area. This year the fiesta takes place from the 16th-19th June with the main parade taking place on Sunday, 18th June.

If you are planning to attend the Moors and Christians celebrations in Mojacar, you might want to consider staying in the area. Mojacar Estates is a real estate agency that offers properties for sale and rent in Mojacar and the surrounding areas. The agency has a wide range of properties available, from villas and apartments to townhouses and commercial properties. The agency is dedicated to providing excellent customer service and can help you find the perfect property to suit your needs.

This fiesta is a unique and exciting event that celebrates the history and traditions of Mojacar. It is a testament to the town's enduring spirit and the importance of preserving its cultural heritage. Visitors can expect an unforgettable experience!

And whether you are looking to rent or to purchase a property in the area, you can contact Mojacar Estates which will work hard to help you find your dream property.

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