Moors and Christians Festival, Alcoy-Alcoi

The festival of Moors and Christians is the most important event of the year in Alcoy. It is dedicated to San Jorge, a figure shrouded in ancestral traditions. They have been celebrated since the sixteenth century and commemorate a battle that took place in 1276. At that time, the city was on the border area with the territory dominated by the Muslims on the peninsula. There were frequent skirmishes between the two factions until, on 23 April 1276, the Arab troops of Al-Azraq attempted to storm the town. According to legend, San Jorge appeared during the battle and, thanks to his intervention, the Christian army won the day, forcing the Muslims to retreat and never to return. In thanks, the citizens of Alcoy made him their patron saint, promising to celebrate a festival in his honour each year.