Museu Alcoià de la Festa

In the heart of Alcoy, a city nestled in the province of Alicante, Spain, lies the Museu Alcoià de la Festa (MAF), a captivating museum that immerses visitors in the rich traditions and vibrant celebrations of the Moros y Cristianos (Moors and Christians) festival. This annual event, deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of Alcoy, comes to life within the walls of the MAF, offering an unforgettable journey through history, music, and festivity.

The Historic Building

The MAF is housed in the stately Casal de Sant Jordi, a building with roots dating back to the 17th century. Originally owned by the noble families of Jordá and Merita, this elegant structure was acquired by the Asociación de Sant Jordi in 1954. The association, dedicated to organizing the Moros y Cristianos festival, meticulously restored the building to serve as its headquarters. Today, the Casal de Sant Jordi, with its semi-basement and three upper floors, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Alcoy's noble past.

A Journey Through the Museum

The museum's origins are closely tied to the tradition of captains and lieutenants from the various filaes (groups) donating their costumes to the Asociación de Sant Jordi. This practice led to the creation of an extensive collection of costumes and designs, which, along with other artifacts, formed the basis of the museum. In 2004, the association decided to establish a new museum, which was inaugurated in 2006. The MAF's exhibits are thoughtfully distributed across its different floors, each offering a unique perspective on the festival.

The Vestibule

As you step into the vestibule, you are welcomed by a space dedicated to temporary exhibitions related to the festival. This area also houses the reception and a shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs. A highlight of the vestibule is the audiovisual presentation that delves into the origins of the festival, the devotion to Saint George, and his patronage. This engaging introduction sets the stage for the immersive experience that awaits.

The First Floor

The first floor is a treasure trove of historical posters, showcasing the evolution of the festival's visual identity over the years. Among the collection is the oldest surviving poster from 1876, offering a glimpse into the festival's storied past. This floor also features the sala of the Asociación de Sant Jordi, an entity with roots in the 18th century, dedicated to preserving and organizing the festival. A special section is devoted to Saint George, the patron saint of Alcoy, where visitors can explore his traditional iconography and unique representation in Alcoy. An audiovisual presentation further illuminates his legend and the widespread devotion he inspires across the Christian world.

The Second Floor

The second floor delves into the various aspects of the festival and its key players. The A Music for the Festival room celebrates the integral role of music in the festivities, highlighting composers, performers, and the extensive repertoire created specifically for the Moros y Cristianos. Another room offers historical insights into the festival's origins, featuring testimonies and opinions from historians, sociologists, anthropologists, and locals. At the far end of this floor, the Festive Roles room displays a stunning array of costumes and designs, which are updated annually to reflect the rotation among the filaes. Visitors can also explore the meticulous work that goes into preparing for the celebrations, as well as sample traditional festive and Alcoyan cuisine.

The Third Floor

The third floor invites visitors to take A Walk Through History, showcasing the evolution of the costumes of Sant Jordiet, captains, and lieutenants over time. This section is part of the original museum, the precursor to the current MAF. The central rooms on this floor are dedicated to The Trilogy: Sensations and Emotions, featuring audiovisual presentations of the previous year's festivities. An antechamber represents the Day of the Musicians, where the festival's anthem is performed in a packed Plaza de España. The adjoining room projects images from the Festive Trilogy, including the Day of the Entrances, the Day of Saint George, and the Day of the Alardo.

In conclusion, the Museu Alcoià de la Festa is not just a museum; it is a vibrant celebration of Alcoy's rich cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of the Moros y Cristianos festival. Each floor offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the history, music, and traditions that make this festival so special. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a music lover, or simply curious about Alcoy's unique traditions, the MAF promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of one of Spain's most cherished celebrations.