Moors and Christians of Murcia

The Moors and Christians Festivals of Murcia turn the city's medieval history into parades, embassies, music and festive coexistence. Kábilas and troops evoke both the founding of Mursiya in the 9th century and the agreed delivery of the city to the infant Alfonso of Castile in 1243.

When are they celebrated

The party usually occupies eight days of the first half of September and is integrated into the Murcia Fair. It begins on Monday of the Fair and ends on the eve of the rise of the Virgin of Fuensanta to her sanctuary; That is why its exact dates change every year and must be confirmed in the official programme of the corresponding edition.

It is not in itself a general public holiday: its holiday calendar and the official declaration of non-working days are separate issues.

Where does it take place

The Medieval Camp is traditionally installed around the Malecón and Murcia Río. The Plaza del Cardenal Belluga houses the historical embassies, while the great parades run along central roads such as the Gran Vía Escultor Francisco Salzillo. The specific itineraries may vary in each edition.

Also consult the Festivals in Murcia.

Origin and history

The Federation places the continued start of the current festival in 1983, after the events linked to the 1150th anniversary of the founding of Murcia. The recreation refers to the creation of the medina by Abderramán II in the year 825 and the agreement of 1243 by which Ibn Hud handed the keys to the infante Alfonso, future Alfonso X.

His story highlights negotiation and vassalage, without representing a final battle with winners and losers. Since 1983, the Federation has brought together independent associations from both sides and organises the September festival, the Half Year Festival and cultural activities during the rest of the year.

Main events and traditions

Proclamation, festive parade, lighting of lights and inauguration of the Medieval Camp.
Presentation of flag bearers, children's and main parades, festive music and association activities.
Embassy of the Murcia Foundation and representation of the Handover of the Keys.
Triumphal entry of the Infante Alfonso, display of harquebucery and acts in honour of María Santísima de la Arrixaca.
Life in the camp, where kábilas and troops maintain their spaces of coexistence.

Kábilas, mesnadas y participación

The groups on the Moorish side are called kábilas and those of the Christian, mesnadas. Each association retains its own identity, clothing and activities, while the Federation assembly coordinates common events. Celebrators, musicians, ballets, officials, cultural associations, institutions and the public from the city and outside of it participate.

Reconocimiento turístico

The Secretary of State for Tourism declared the celebration Festival of International Tourist Interest in June 2025. The recognition distinguishes a festival that Murcia has celebrated continuously for more than four decades within its September Fair.