The month of May is usually the month for flowers in Spain with some of the most popular festivals associated with plants and floral decorations. But have you heard about the Festival of the Wine Horses?
Los Caballos del Vino is a vibrant celebration held annually from May 1st to 3rd in Caravaca de la Cruz, Murcia, Spain. This festival is orchestrated by the Bando de los Caballos del Vino, a federation consisting of sixty peñas caballistas (equestrian associations). These clubs participate in three main competitions: the Bareback Horse Competition, the Harnessing Competition, and the Racing Competition.
Pre-Festival Activities
The festivities kick off on April 30th with the Noche de las Migas (Night of the Breadcrumbs). During this event, streets come alive with charanga bands and batucadas (percussion groups), and groups known as peñas migueras gather to prepare and compete in cooking migas—a traditional dish made with breadcrumbs, garlic, sardines, and sausages.
Main Festival Events
On May 1st, popular events include the Flower Offering and the Exhibition of Capes. The festival is renowned for the Wine Horses, beautifully adorned with elaborate capes made of silk, silver, and gold threads. Each mantle/cape can take a year to create and may cost thousands of euros.
The horses are paraded through the streets fully harnessed, accompanied by their four trainers. The highlight is the race on May 2nd, where horses sprint up to the castle, creating a stunning visual spectacle attended by thousands. The day dedicated to children features parades and activities, celebrating the craftsmanship of the mantles with awards for the best ones.
Historical Background
The legend behind Los Caballos del Vino is both dramatic and miraculous. During a siege by the Arabs from the Kingdom of Granada, the inhabitants of Caravaca, defended by the Knights Templar, faced a severe water shortage that led to an epidemic. In a desperate search for a solution, the Templars ventured beyond the city walls and found wine, which they believed to be purer than the contaminated water. They transported the wine back to the city using horses, covered in skins. Miraculously, the wine healed the sick, giving birth to the tradition and the name "Wine Horses." The tradition dates back to the 13th century, with the first documented records from the 19th century.
Evolution and Recognition
Initially a simple procession with horses and wine, the festival has evolved into a competitive race, reflecting the community's commitment to preserving their cultural heritage. It was declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest in 2004, an Asset of Cultural Interest and part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2020.
Modern Celebrations
Today, the festival attracts over 100,000 visitors worldwide, becoming a major tourist attraction. Spectators, dressed in white shirts and red scarves, witness the race of exquisitely dressed horses and their handlers up the steep streets, a testament to Caravaca de la Cruz's rich cultural heritage.
Spanish festivals reflect the diverse histories, traditions, and spirits of their regions. These celebrations are not just events; they are profound expressions of identity and community that echo the historical depth and regional diversity of Spain.
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