Fiestas in Calpe

A SYMBOL OF HISTORICAL TRADITION

From the 19th to the 22nd of October, Calpe will dress up to celebrate its fiestas in honour of the “Santisimo Cristo del Sudor” and the Moors and Christians.

The fiestas patronales of Calpe commemorate a historical gesture that occurred on the 22nd of October of 1744. On that day the Moors, who were in league with Moncofar, a Muslim who had grown up among the Christians and had proved a traitor, launched an attack on the Christian citizens. "Moncófar" tried to smuggle the Moors into the village, but thanks to the intercession of "Caragol" (Jeronimo Ferrer Mulet), who managed to close the gates to the village supposedly with help from the “Santisimo Cristo del Sudor”, his attempts failed.

Legend also has it that there were two battles fought between the Moors and Christians; the first took place on the beach, were the Moors disembarked from their magnificent ship. The Christians were awaiting the attack, and after a tremendous battle the Moors cried victory. The second battle commenced with the children’s cry of “foc en Ifach, moros en la costa” (fire on the Ifach, Moors on the coast). The Moors tried to enter the village, and Caragol managed to close the gates on the enemy.

Both disputes are simulated during the fiestas patronales. The "Playa del Arenal" is the stage for the “Desembarco” (disembark) during the morning, and at night, a castle is built simulating the battlefields "Parlamento". Many are the acts staged for the enjoyment of the locals and visitors. Official processions ("Desfilada"), unceremonious processions, called "Entraetes", musical acts, firework displays; one can partake of refreshment in one of the 12 kabilas (places of reunion for the participants in the fiestas). Fiestas that are open to all whom wish to participate.

In towns and cities throughout the whole of the Region of Valencia and throughout the whole year innumerable fiestas, which stand out for their popular participation, colourfulness and spectacular nature, take place. These are first-rate cultural tourist attractions with such diverse themes as religious, popular or historic subject matters.

Amongst the more than a thousand fiestas that are held, those to be particularly highlighted are the ones that have been declared of National and International Tourist Interest as a result of their historical tradition, numerous attendance or the far-reaching media coverage amongst other reasons.

Fire, fireworks, music, colour, exhibitions and shows are consubstantial elements of the fiestas of the Region of Valencia which have been organised for years and are to be enjoyed on the streets, for neighbours and visitors alike so that the hospitality and invitation to participate in the festive events turn into a social happening in all the towns and cities.