Witch Festival of Alcantarilla
What are the Witch Festivals?
The Patron Saint Festivities in honor of Our Lady of Health of Alcantarilla are known as the May or Witch Festivals, and they are celebrated in the second week of May in the city of Alcantarilla, Spain. These festivals have their origin in both religious devotion and popular tradition and culminate in the burning of the witch, which gives them their name.
These festivities, declared of Regional Tourist Interest, are highly anticipated by the inhabitants of Alcantarilla and also attract many visitors from other parts of the world. During these days, religious and civic aspects are mixed in a double aspect that is expressed through the events prepared for the celebration.
One of the highlights of these festivals from a tourist point of view is the election of the Witch or Warlock of the year, who is usually someone important in the town, and their subsequent burning. In addition, many cultural and festive activities are organized for the enjoyment of visitors, making these festivities a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Alcantarilla.
In 1995, the Patron Saint Festivities of Alcantarilla received the honorary distinction of 'Festivals of Regional Tourist Interest' from the Ministry of Development and Labor of the Region of Murcia, reflecting the interest they generate among tourists. If you are planning to visit the Region of Murcia in May, don't miss the opportunity to experience the joy and tradition of the May Festivals of Alcantarilla.
Origin and History
The burning of the Witch is a popular tradition that takes place in Alcantarilla and is distinguished from other regional celebrations by its festive folk aspect. There has been much debate about the origin of this popular custom. Some argue that the tradition is based on the presence during the 16th to 18th centuries of the Inquisition Tribunal in the territory of Alcantarilla, while others maintain that it is based on the Mediterranean custom of getting rid of everything negative as a symbol of rebirth and starting over.
Oral tradition testifies to the existence of witchcraft magic in the Alcantarilla territory, but there is no evidence of 'witches' in Alcantarilla. The Federation of Peñas is responsible for organizing all the events linked to this commemoration, from the election of the Witch or Warlock of the year to the famous burning. The entire event becomes a true scenographic festival, full of history and fantasy, in which all eyes are focused on the torches that will end the festivities.
The practice of burning the Witch has been carried out since 1979 and is receiving contributions and reforms year after year, mainly due to the growing involvement in these events of the various local groups. For the inhabitants of Alcantarilla, the Witch is one of the main identifying elements of the town and is a highly anticipated and valued celebration in the region.
What to see in Alcantarilla
Alcantarilla is a Spanish city that boasts several tourist attractions. One of the most prominent sites is the Museum of the Huerta, where visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Murcian countryside. The museum features a collection of tools and objects used in agriculture, as well as a contemporary art exhibition related to the huerta.
Another place worth visiting is the Church of San Pedro Apóstol, a temple built in the 18th century that boasts an impressive Baroque altarpiece and a neoclassical-style bell tower. It is also recommended to take a stroll through the historic center of the city, where you can find charming historical buildings and squares, such as the Adolfo Suárez Square or the Constitution Square.
For nature lovers, Alcantarilla offers the Cubana Park, a natural space with a great variety of flora and fauna, where you can go hiking and enjoy outdoor activities. There is also the Compañía Park, a historic garden with over 150 years of age that features a wide variety of trees and plants.
And of course, if you visit Alcantarilla in May, you cannot miss the celebration of the Burning of the Witch, a traditional festivity that includes a series of events and shows that culminate with the burning of the witch figure in the Town Hall square.
