The l'Alcora City Council, the Nous Pobladors entity, and the provincial association of artisans of Castellón have agreed on the dates for the next edition of the Al-Qura Medieval fair. This event, which transforms the capital of l'Alcalatén into the ancient farmhouse of Al-Qüra, will be held on November 13, 14, and 15.
Furthermore, Nous Pobladors has announced the winner of the second photo contest for the medieval exhibition. The first prize went to a photographer from San Sebastián for his work titled Moorish Warrior. The image captures an Andalusian soldier prepared for combat during the reenactment of Skirmish at the Gates, one of the most emblematic scenes of the event.
This historical reenactment depicts the surprise attack by Christian Almogavars against the small farmhouse of Al-Qura, whose inhabitants are forced to flee to the nearby Castle of l'Alcalatén, where Muslim forces confront the offensive. The winning image will be part of the event's promotional poster, transporting visitors to the 13th century to experience the clash of cultures during the Reconquista.
“"One of the distinctive features of Al-Qura Medieval is the spectacular involvement of the residents. I encourage everyone to visit l'Alcora to enjoy and experience firsthand an exciting journey to the 13th century."
The event is historically set in the year 1233, when James I advances with his troops to conquer Valencia. Following him, Christian families move to the newly conquered lands in search of new opportunities. However, upon arriving at the village of Al-Qura, they find that the Saracen arif of l'Alcalatén has not yet surrendered. The new settlers have no choice but to camp at its gates, awaiting a solution. This is the historical basis on which the Alcoran event begins.
The fair offers a medieval market, historical reenactments, period music, falconry, tasting of traditional concoctions, and activities for the little ones, such as the children's capture of the castle, the knighting ceremony, or the bread-making workshop. All of this creates a complete historical immersion experience for visitors of all ages.
Over time, the 'peñas' or 'haimas' (groups/tents) have gained increasing prominence in the Medieval Days. For this reason, in 2019, the Nous Pobladors association or commission was created, comprising different subcommittees that strengthen the organization and guarantee the continuity of Al-Qura Medieval. These subcommittees are responsible for costumes, cooking, children's activities, theater, military aspects, guilds, and haimas, tasked with setting decorative guidelines and organizing music and dance parades.
