History comes alive as Moors and Christians parade fills Els Poblets streets

The streets of Els Poblets were transformed into a living history book as hundreds of participants took part in one of the most anticipated events of the town’s annual fiestas, the 2026 Moros y Cristianos parade.

Held on the evening of Wednesday, August 5, the colourful procession attracted residents and visitors alike, with elaborate costumes, dramatic performances and stirring music creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The event formed one of the highlights of the municipality’s patron saint celebrations, bringing together local filaes in a spectacular display of heritage and community pride.

A tribute to a legendary figure

This year’s parade opened with a moving tribute to Al-Azraq, the famous Muslim leader who played a major role in the history of the Marina Alta during the 13th century. Standard bearers carried the names of the fortresses once linked to his territory, marking the 750th anniversary of his death.

The tribute set the tone for an evening focused on the region’s rich past, reminding spectators of the historical events that shaped the area long before modern-day Els Poblets existed.

The Moorish side leads the procession

The parade began with the Moorish contingents, as Filà Mora Alamar led the route through the town. They were followed by Filà Alberca, whose richly decorated costumes, rhythmic marching and traditional Moorish music filled the streets with colour and excitement.

As drums echoed through the town and spectators lined the route, the procession recreated the pageantry for which Moros y Cristianos celebrations across the Valencian Community are famous.

Christian forces take centre stage

The Christian side of the story then unfolded as Filà Cavallers de l’Apocalipsi marched proudly through the streets, followed by the Kinta Filà.

The biggest applause, however, was reserved for Filà Maulets, which holds the prestigious Christian Captaincy in 2026. Their appearance marked the climax of the evening, with an ambitious production inspired by the history of the town itself.

A story of conquest brought to life

Under the theme “Els Poblets, Terra Conquerida” (“Els Poblets, Conquered Land”), Filà Maulets presented a theatrical retelling of the area’s medieval history.

The performance imagined life when the region formed part of Al-Andalus, nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Serra de Segària mountains. As the story unfolded, Christian knights advanced with banners flying, symbolising the arrival of new rulers and a turning point in local history.

Music, choreographed performances, symbolic battles and dramatic staging recreated the clash between the two sides, blending historical storytelling with the festive spirit that defines the Moros y Cristianos tradition.

Collaboration creates a memorable spectacle

The captaincy presentation was made even more impressive thanks to the involvement of neighbouring groups, including Filà Beduïnes, La Clandestina from Pego and Filà Deniers from Dénia.

Their participation added extra scale and visual impact to the procession, highlighting the strong links between towns across the Marina Alta during the festival season.

The celebrations continue

Although the grand parade was the centrepiece of Wednesday’s festivities, the celebrations in Els Poblets were not over. The programme continues with the final day of the patron saint festivities, dedicated to the Diví Salvador, bringing several days of celebrations to a close.

For many spectators, however, the Moros y Cristianos parade once again proved why it remains one of the region’s most treasured traditions, combining history, artistry and community spirit in a spectacle that continues to captivate generation after generation.