16/07/2024
A guide to enjoying the 2024 Moors and Christians Festival in Villajoyosa
Villajoyosa is a municipality that tastes of the sea in every corner. The rhythm of the waves has shaped the character and history of this beautiful city, whose inhabitants have lived linked to the Mediterranean for generations. Centuries ago, Berber pirates from North Africa were constantly trying to conquer La Vila Joiosa, attracted by the bounties of this city, which became famous on both sides of the sea. With tenacity, the locals defended their lands from attacks, and that immense courage is commemorated every year with festivities that have been declared of International Tourist Interest.
As the month of July draws to a close, an irresistible invitation awaits in the charming coastal town of Villajoyosa. Revolving around the feast day of Santa Marta, the town's patron saint, on the 29th of July, the grand festivities of Moors and Christians come alive, bringing together thousands of revelers in an unparalleled display of joy, music, gunpowder, folklore, and tradition.
For seven exhilarating days, the streets of Villajoyosa transform into a vibrant tapestry of music, dance, and theatrical performances, showcasing the region's most authentic gastronomy. Locals and visitors alike are swept into an extraordinary atmosphere, where every corner pulsates with life and merriment.
The Enduring Legacy of Villajoyosa's Moors and Christians Festival
It is known that these festivities have been celebrated for at least 250 years, always in honor of Saint Martha, as they commemorate the events of 1538 when Barbary pirates, led by the legendary Zalé-Arraez, attempted to conquer the city. According to legend, Saint Martha came to the aid of the inhabitants of that ancient town, causing a massive flood that sank the enemy ships and prevented the corsairs from reaching the shore. In gratitude, the people named her their patron saint and dedicate these celebrations to her every July, with the main event being a reenactment of that Moorish landing that the brave villagers managed to thwart.
Event Program for the Moors and Christians Festival in Villajoyosa 2024
A vast array of festivities with diverse themes take place throughout the Moors and Christians festival in Villajoyosa, spilling out onto every corner of the town. Below, we outline the unmissable highlights of your visit to these spectacular fiestas. However, if you aspire to become a true expert, don't hesitate to browse the comprehensive program of events we offer here.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of the festivities is the Grand Moorish Landing, held at dawn on July 28th. This unique reenactment sees hundreds of locals transform into Moorish troops, arriving by boat to capture the Christian castle, erected on Villajoyosa's Centro Beach to represent the old fortified town. In response, no less valiant Christian warriors set out from the beach and attempt to halt the ships' advance in a dazzling display of pyrotechnics over the sea. There's no better place to enjoy the spectacle than from the shore!
Attending either the Moorish or Christian Entry is also highly recommended. These grand parades, filled with pomp, floats, music, and the most spectacular costumes, wind their way through the town center on July 25th and 26th as the sun begins to set.
Every family in Villajoyosa belongs to a comparsa (group) that is part of either the Moorish or Christian side, and these groups are responsible for organizing the festivities. During these days, they gather to eat, drink, and dance in the streets throughout the town's neighborhoods, culminating in these magnificent parades, which are considered a true artistic display that lasts for hours as they snake through the main avenues of Villajoyosa's center. The Town Hall sets up thousands of chairs along the parade route, so it's a wonderful opportunity to grab a seat and enjoy the spectacle that unfolds before your eyes.
If you weren't already planning a trip to Villajoyosa, now's the time to make some plans! From July 24th to 31st, the town comes alive with the Moors and Christians festivities, and we don't want you to miss out on being a part of it all. We look forward to welcoming you to Hotel Montíboli and wish you a very happy fiesta!
