elche's city council has unveiled the details of the 31st medieval festival, set to take place from 23 october to 8 november under the theme 'terra regnum'. This year's event will once again turn the streets and squares of the historic centre into stages for a diverse programme that includes music, theatre, street performances, and traditional activities.
the councillor for culture, irene ruiz, highlighted the uniqueness of the festival, noting that it is one of the few remaining medieval festivals in spain, having celebrated over thirty editions. she emphasised that the misteri d’elx is a central feature of the festival, showcasing the rich iconography of ancient music associated with the performances.
the festival's poster, designed by vicente javier poveda, an accomplished illustrator and graphic designer, captures the medieval essence of elche. the artwork, inspired by historical codices, tapestries, and altarpieces, features a female figure wielding a sword and wearing a crown, symbolising the contributions of women throughout the city's history. poveda expressed that he intended to pay tribute to all ilicitana women, particularly the aparadoras, including his mother, for their hard work and dedication to family.
event highlights
the festival will kick off on 23 october with 'flamen al carrer' by the spinish circo. on 24 october, quimera from fam teatre will perform, followed by a recital from the elche symphonic band on 25 october. the autumn cycle of the misteri d’elx will feature general rehearsals on 30 and 31 october, with the official performance scheduled for 1 november, including 'la vespra' at 10:00 and 'la festa' at 17:00.
medieval market
the medieval market will be held from 5 to 8 november in the plaza de baix and surrounding streets. it will open on 5 november at 18:00, transforming the urban environment into a bustling hub of activity, which is a major draw for tourists. last year, the market attracted over 200,000 visitors.
the festival programme also features musical and theatrical performances. the gran teatro will host 'esentia' by ana alcaide on 25 october and 'eureka música y ciencia', organised by the university of miguel hernández, on 28 october. ilicitana artist blanca paloma will perform on 30 october. free events will take place at las clarisas, including 'bubulú, historia de tu ciudad', 'susurros de al-ándalus', and 'viaje por la historia de la música'.
the hort del xocolater will showcase 'aurora musicae: del medievo al renacimiento' and 'una historia de película', while the sala de la tramoia will feature the family show 'rucs. el maleficio del brujo'. additionally, on 27 october, the magazine 'festa d’elig' will be presented at the town hall, and an exhibition titled 'joan castejón – cercant bellesa' will be on display at the sala kursaal of the gran teatro until 29 november.
further details about the festival's programme can be found at www.festivalmedieval.com. brochures will soon be available at various points of interest around the city, including the gran teatro box office, las clarisas, the tourist office, and the omac centro.
