Agatha Christie fans flock to crime festival in Jávea as mystery event attracts more than 1,000 visitors

Crime fiction fans had plenty to investigate in Jávea this weekend as a popular literary festival returned with murder mysteries, theatrical crime trails and a special tribute to one of Britain’s best-loved authors, Agatha Christie.

The ninth edition of Xàbia Negra attracted more than 1,000 visitors over three days, with several activities reaching full capacity as the Costa Blanca town celebrated the world of detective fiction.

One of the highlights for British literature enthusiasts was a shared reading session dedicated to Agatha Christie, marking 50 years since the death of the legendary British novelist.

Christie, whose gripping mysteries and iconic detectives have entertained generations of readers, remains one of the most influential figures in crime fiction. Her best-known creations include Belgian detective Hercule Poirot and amateur sleuth Miss Marple, whose investigations have become classics of the genre.

The tribute offered festivalgoers an opportunity to revisit her work while celebrating the enduring appeal of the traditional murder mystery.

Spanish crime writer receives prestigious award

Another major moment was the presentation of the La Criminala award to Spanish crime novelist César Pérez Gellida, recognising his contribution to literature.

The Valladolid-born author joins an impressive list of previous recipients, including Lorenzo Silva, Víctor del Árbol, Alicia Giménez Bartlett, Carme Chaparro and Rosa Montero.

Pérez Gellida attended the festival shortly after the publication of his latest novel, La piel de una gota. Following the ceremony, he shared his gratitude on social media, describing the recognition as something that made him ‘infinitely happy’ and thanking the people of Jávea for their warm reception.

The award has become one of the festival’s defining features, helping establish Xàbia Negra as an increasingly important meeting point for Spanish crime writers and readers.

Murder mysteries beyond the page

The three-day programme offered considerably more than traditional author talks and book signings.

Visitors could take part in writers’ battles, watch a fast-paced short-film competition and follow theatrical routes that brought fictional crime stories into the streets of Jávea.

The varied programme also featured discussions and appearances from writers including Sònia Valiente, Adolfo Rodríguez, Teresa Domínguez, Carme Cardona, Joan Carles Ventura and Vicente Garrido. Actress Inma Sancho was among the other guests.

The combination of literature, entertainment and audience participation helped attract people beyond the usual literary festival crowd, with organisers reporting more than 1,000 attendees and sold-out activities.

Jávea already planning tenth anniversary

Festival director Santiago Álvarez said the event had become firmly established within the town’s cultural life.

He highlighted its ability to combine literature with entertainment and interactive activities, making crime fiction accessible to a wider audience.

Organisers are already looking ahead to next year’s tenth edition, with the milestone expected to provide another opportunity to celebrate the genre and bring authors and readers together.

For residents and visitors who enjoy a good whodunnit, Jávea is clearly becoming a destination worth keeping an eye on.