If you have ever seen the Moors and Christians celebrations in Elda, you will know they are one of the most spectacular fiestas in the Valencian Community.
Music fills the streets, colourful costumes take centre stage, and thousands of people join the celebrations each year.
Now, the festival has received Spain’s highest tourism recognition.
Elda’s Moors and Christians fiestas now hold official Fiesta of International Tourist Interest status. The Spanish Government awarded the title through the State Secretariat for Tourism.
Mayor, Rubén Alfaro announced the news. He called it “the highest administrative recognition a festival can receive in Spain” and said the award places Elda firmly on the international tourism map.
A historic achievement for Elda
Alfaro said the recognition reflects years of work by organisers, local authorities and festival groups.
He also noted that Elda now joins other internationally recognised Moors and Christians celebrations in the Valencian Community.
The fiestas date back to the 19th century. Today, they remain one of Elda’s most important cultural and social events.
A celebration built by generations
Junta Central president Pedro Serrano said the award belongs to generations of festers who have kept the tradition alive.
He described the fiestas as a celebration full of colour, music, emotion and tradition. He added that the recognition reflects the importance of the event to the city and its identity.
The new status is expected to attract more international visitors and boost cultural tourism in Elda.
