Mojácar has its roots, which are still palpable, in a rich and varied cultural legacy which will forever mark the physical appearance of its people and the character of its inhabitants. At the beginning of the 8th century, the South-east peninsular was one of the areas subject to the invasion of the Arab armies and the start of the big Moslem era.

In 1488 the mayors of the entire area gathered to surrender to the Catholic Monarchs, with the exception of the Mayor of Mojácar. Captain Garcilaso de la Vega was therefore sent to the fountain to speak to Alabez (warden of Mojácar at that time), who explained his reasons for not surrendering. From this historical fact comes the Mojácar Moors & ChristiansFiesta.

There is no doubt but that Mojácar´s biggest fiesta, anticipated keenly all year long, is the “Moors and Christians”. The entire town, together with many adopted residents, divide themselves into various guilds, called cábilas, who will parade through the town dressed in costly eyecatching and colourful costumes as Arab or Christians soldiers and captains. This event is held to remember the peaceful and negotiated surrender of Mojácar and the surrounding villages to the Christian King at the end of the 15th century.