Santa Pola’s traditional Moorish assault has opened the town’s Moors and Christians celebrations, with more than 1,000 spectators gathering on Levante beach. The event recreated attacks by Barbary pirates on the Mediterranean coast during the 16th century, with dancing, battle scenes, arquebus fire and cannon shots.

The performance began at 10am, with Christian forces positioned behind a wooden palisade as Moorish troops approached from the sea. The action was narrated and placed in its historical context by journalist José Juan López. The recreation also referred to Tabarca, which was used as a strategic base for raids and attacks on the coast.

The Moorish forces eventually overwhelmed the Christian defenders, who were forced to retreat. Manuel Gabino, playing the Moorish ambassador, demanded their surrender, while Judith Valero, as the Christian ambassador, accepted defeat and pledged to recover the lost territory.

The assault took place around 100 metres further east along Levante beach this year, creating more space for spectators and allowing views from several positions. The battle will continue over the coming days with the conquest and subsequent reconquest of Santa Pola’s Fortress Castle.