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| Festivals- September to December |
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Alcalá la Real has been in existence since prehistoric times and many of the traditions and customs practised today are reminders of the town’s rich history. From the time the Romans first settled on La Mota, through the Muslim occupation of the town and into the Christian era, each successive culture has left its mark on the modern-day society and its many colourful celebrations. |
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SEPTEMBER
Feria de San Mateo- This is Alcalá’s biggest fair and it’s celebrated over five days in honour of San Mateo, whose feast day is 23 September. The celebration has its roots as a livestock fair and and is still the scene of very popular horse displays. |
During the reign of King Alfonso XI, it earned the title of ‘Royal Fair’. Today, the fair is renowned for the ‘casetas’ selling food and drink to partygoers who revel until the wee hours and for the amusements and fairground rides that entertain the children. |
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DECEMBER
Feast of Santo Domingo de Silos- When King Alfonso XI finally succeeded in reconquering Alcalá la Real in 1341, he had built a church in honour of Santo Domingo de Silos. The church, now in ruins, sits below La Mota. A procession takes place every year on 20 December. A statue of the saint is carried through the streets accompanied by civic and religious leaders. |
Matanzo del cerdo (Slaughter of the Pigs)- This is an age-old tradition which is gradually disappearing though amongst families in nearby villages it is still an important part of the preparations for Christmas. The animals, which have been reared all year long, are sacrificed in December and families busy themselves making chorizo, sausages, black pudding and hams to be eaten during the coming year. This is also the time to make traditional pastries from almonds and butter, called ‘polvorones’ and ‘mantecados’.
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