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July 14-20 Moors and Christians festival in Orihuela

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Step back in time in Orihuela with a week of colour, culture and captivating history

July 14-20 Moors and Christians festival in Orihuela

The 2024 edition of the Moors and Christians Festival will immerse Orihuela in a vibrant canvas of colour and culture this July 14-20. This year, join the Armengola, Loli Sánchez and Orihuela’s Glorious Ensign Bearer, Chelo Moñino, as they lead the festivities through the streets of this historic Alicante city.

The Moors and Christians Festival is a spectacular celebration, declared of National Tourist Interest in 2017. It commemorates the rich history of Orihuela, dating back to the Middle Ages and the arrival of Christian troops in the 13th century. This year’s event promises to be even more memorable, with a week filled with parades, music and dramatic battle re-enactments.

Here’s the complete schedule of events for the 2024 Moors and Christians fiestas:

July 14

7.30pm: Floral offering from the Gabriel Miró Roundabout – a beautiful tribute to kick off the festivities.

July 15

8.30pm: Unique Gunpowder Guerrilla, a thrilling display of pyrotechnics and tradition.

10pm: Taking of the Castle – witness the dramatic re-enactment of the Christian triumph at the Gabriel Miró Glorieta.

July 16

8pm: Children's Parade – a delightful procession with the little ones dressed in their finest Moorish and Christian attire.

11.45pm: Public exhibition of the Glorious Enseña del Oriol – a proud moment for the city, displayed on the main balcony of the Town Hall.

July 17

9am: Transfer of the Gloriosa Enseña del Oriol to the Holy Church Cathedral – a solemn procession through the city.

9.30am: Solemn procession with Saints Justa and Rufina, accompanied by the Glorious Enseña del Oriol.

10am: Solemn Mass of the Reconquista – a spiritual celebration in the Parish Church of Santas Justa and Rufina.

11am: Parade of the Glorious Enseña del Oriol – a grand procession through the city streets.

11.30pm: Removal of the Glorious Enseña del Oriol from the Town Hall – a symbolic conclusion to an eventful day.

July 18

9pm: Great Festive Retreat – a magnificent display of unity and celebration.

July 19

9.30pm: Christian Entrance – a grand procession of Christians, with their majestic armour and weaponry.

July 20

9.30pm: Moors Entrance – experience the exotic allure of the Moors with their flowing robes and majestic camels.

Orihuela’s Moors and Christians Festival is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and history. With elaborate costumes, vibrant parades and the thrilling sound of marching bands, it’s an event that captivates both locals and visitors alike every year.

Image: Asociación de Fiestas de Moros y Cristianos “Santas Justa y Rufina”

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