Alcoy Moors and Christians Festival

The Alcoy Moors and Christians Festival is one of the most spectacular events to take place on the Costa Blanca. Part of the celebrations to honour St.George, patron saint of the region, is a re-enactment of the battle between the Moors and Christians, with the sound of swords hitting shields and blood curdling screams reverberating around the streets.

In preparation for the main battle, for two days the armies march around the town, to the sound of pipes and drums. All ranks are represented from the top officers down to the pitch fork carrying peasants.

The major battle takes place the day after St.George´s Day, 24th April, and explosions, fake gun fire, and plenty of smoke can be seen and heard all over Alcoi.

Great emphasis is put on the authenticity of this festival to make it as realistic as possible, and the end product gives a great insight into the proper battle which took place in the 13th Century.

Contact details: Alicante Tourist Office, Av. Federico, Soto 4, Engresuelo, 03001. Tel: 0034

965230160. Fax: 0034 965230155. E-mail: turismo@costablanca.es

When: April, (annual).

Entrance:.Free.

Opening hours: Various.

Getting there: Alcoy is 30km inland from Benidorm and Dénia. 40km from Alicante.

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