Historic Centre
The festive heart of the city
The Villena’s historic centre are much more than a collection of streets and old buildings: during the Moors and Christians Festival, they become the true heart of the celebration. Between historic facades, arcades, and cobbled alleyways, thousands of people gather every September to experience the hustle and bustle, colour, and music of a festival that brings the city to a standstill.
The scene of iconic events
Located next to the Town Hall and very close to the Church of Santiago, Plaza Mayor is one of the main focal points of the festivities. During the key days, its balconies and arcades fill with officials, festival-goers, and visitors eager to witness iconic events such as:
Parades passing through the historic centre. Official receptions for authorities and groups.
Festive gatherings featuring band music, fireworks, and colourful costumes.
The square, decorated with banners and festive parades, becomes a meeting place and a place of celebration, where the essence of the festival can be felt at any time of day.
The historic centre: a parade through history
Walking through the historic centre during the festival is like taking a trip back in time. Streets like Calle Mayor, Teniente Hernández Menor, and Joaquín María López are filled with parades, pageantry, and groups of parades advancing to the rhythm of Moorish marches and pasodobles.
The historic facades, decorated for the occasion, and the balconies filled with locals cheering the processions create a unique atmosphere.
Every corner becomes an improvised stage from which to watch the festivities.
Key Points for Experiencing the Festival in the Old Town
Villena Town Hall: Central location for organizing and hosting official receptions.
Plaza de Santiago: A popular meeting spot before and after religious services at the Church of Santiago.
Calle Nueva: A prominent street along the grand parades, where close proximity to the public heightens the excitement.
The perfect blend of history and celebration
Villena’s historic center and Plaza Mayor not only provide an incomparable setting for the festive events, but also connect the festival with centuries of history. Between centuries-old walls and cobblestone streets, the Moors and Christians costumes, music, and gunpowder take on a special meaning: here, tradition is experienced up close, almost within reach.
During the Moors and Christians Festival, Villena is transformed, and its historic center becomes the open soul of a city that beats to the rhythm of its greatest festival.
Gunpowder Shooting in the Historic Center of Villena