“Estudiantes” (Students)
Tradition, Equality, and Legacy Since 1845
The Comparsa of Estudiantes is one of the oldest and most enduring groups in Villena’s Moors and Christians Festival, with roots that trace back to around 1845, a date that marks its traditional founding, although the true origins are intertwined with the very genesis of the festival itself.
From its inception, the Estudiantes comparsa has mirrored the social diversity of the town. The group was made up of people from all walks of life: noblemen, merchants, artisans, landowners, and labourers united by the shared ideals of celebration and festivity. They marched together, donned in uniforms, united in their passion for the festival, regardless of social status.
A History of Effort and Rebirth
After experiencing a period of decline between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Comparsa of Estudiantes found new life in the 1920s. A group of young people from affluent families joined forces with the remaining original members to breathe fresh energy into the comparsa.
This new generation brought modern uniforms, financial stability, and a renewed spirit that has sustained the comparsa through the decades. From that point on, the Estudiantes evolved steadily, taking part in every major event: La Entrada, Cabalgatas, Retreats, Embassies, and even unique events such as La Troyica.
In 1995, they celebrated their 150th anniversary, a milestone that reaffirmed their importance in the festival. Today, the Comparsa of Estudiantes proudly counts nearly 2,000 members of all ages and backgrounds.
A Uniform, an Ideal
One of the most striking features of the Estudiantes is their strict uniformity. All members—from the first corporal to the last marcher—wear exactly the same outfit, without any embellishments, ranks, or special distinctions.
The ensemble is a timeless black and white uniform, austere and elegant, emphasizing the egalitarian and collective spirit of the group. Even the corporals parade in identical attire, blending into the unity of the formation.
Since its adoption in the 1920s, the uniform has remained unchanged, except for the inclusion of the women’s version—designed to faithfully preserve the original aesthetic, showing the comparsa’s respect for tradition even as it embraces progress.
The Spoon as a Symbol
One of the most curious and meaningful symbols of the Estudiantes is the wooden spoon worn on their bicorn hats.
Its origin dates back to the students of Spain’s Golden Age, who carried wooden spoons with them to eat cheaply in inns and taverns.
The Estudiantes of Villena adopted this symbol as a nod to literary tradition and cultural heritage, and today, the spoon has become a hallmark of the comparsa. It even appears in archival photographs.