- Culture, tradition and community involvement have been key to the international recognition awarded by the Ministry.
- This distinction—the 16th Festival of International Tourist Interest awarded to the Valencian Community—reinforces the town of Elda’s position as a leading tourist and cultural destination in the region.
- The Secretary of State for Tourism, Rosario Sánchez, thanked all the citizens of Elda for their involvement “in a unique celebration that attracts thousands of visitors to experience events that showcase the cultural richness of our country”.
- The festivities last five days, centred around the first Sunday in June.
The Ministry of Industry and Tourism, through the Secretary of State for Tourism, has declared the Moors and Christians festival in Elda, Alicante, a Festival of International Tourist Interest, in recognition of its long history, its continuity over time, its cultural value, its appeal as a tourist attraction, the originality and diversity of the events that make it up, and the festival’s deep-rootedness in the town.
The Secretary of State for Tourism, Rosario Sánchez Grau, has approved the granting of this distinction and has thanked all the citizens of Elda for their involvement “in a unique celebration that attracts thousands of visitors every year to experience first-hand some thrilling events that are a fine example of the cultural richness found in our country”.
With this designation, the Moors and Christians of Elda become the 16th Festival of International Tourist Interest in the Valencian Community, and the 89th in the country as a whole.
Elda has established these festivities as one of the most prominent events in the Valencian Community. Their origins date back to the 19th century, when they emerged as an evolution of ancient local militias that honoured the patron saint with musket salvos. After disappearing at the end of that century, the celebrations were revived in 1944 and have grown to become a massive festival of great significance.
In fact, it boasts over 7,000 participants across its nine troupes, some of which have more than 1,000 people in their ranks. The Christian side has five troupes: the Students, Christians, Smugglers, Pirates and Gypsies; whilst the opposing side has four troupes: the Moroccans, Royalists, Muslims and the Cadí’s Hosts. In this celebration, more than half of the members of the various troupes are women.
It lasts five days and takes place in June
The festivities take place over five days, centred around the first Sunday in June, and include such highlights as the Entry of the Bands, the Children’s Parade and the Moorish and Christian Entries; as well as the Embassies and the arquebus displays, or the events in honour of Saint Anthony.
One of the most significant moments is the Embassies, theatrical performances based on 19th-century works written in verse with an epic and declamatory character, symbolising the conflict between Moors and Christians, now accompanied by informative texts on local history.
Festive music is another of the event’s fundamental pillars. The city’s Festival Music Competition has reached its 38th edition this year, establishing itself as the longest-running of its kind; furthermore, each troupe has its own compositions, thus consolidating a valuable musical heritage that accompanies all the events.
In addition to its cultural richness, the Moors and Christians Festival in Elda stands out for its open, participatory and welcoming atmosphere. During these days, the streets come alive with parades, open-air dances and the traditional “cuartelillos”, spaces where festival-goers and visitors share hospitality, music and camaraderie.
More information about this festival:
https://www.spain.info/en/calendar/moors-christians-elda/
Source: MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY AND TOURISM