Santo Cristo de la Misericordia

Santo Cristo de la Misericordia (Christ of Mercy) is the main festival for the village of Alcútar, and takes place during the second weekend in August. Local residents decorate their homes and the village streets. The festival begins on the first Sunday in August, when the figure of Christ is lowered onto its platform and a series of religious events (known as novenas) are held in Christ’s honour. During the final novena, the local residents make a floral offering to Christ. The most important day of the festival is Saturday, which begins with a parade accompanied by a live band and fireworks throughout the route. At 12:00, a special Eucharist in honour of Christ takes place at the church. At 21:00, the bells are rung and fireworks are let off, and the costaleros carry the figure of Christ through the village streets. During the procession, more fireworks are let off while the onlookers applaud and shout “Long live Jesus Christ! Long live the patron of Alcútar!” as the figure passes by. When the figure reaches the church and crosses over the threshold, rose petals are thrown onto it by the many worshippers standing in the gallery. In the evening, the festivities continue in Plaza de la Iglesia with music from two bands. Sunday, like Saturday, begins with a parade through the streets. At midday, the sports centre hosts a communal meal (often papas a lo pobre or fried potatoes) prepared by the local residents. In the afternoon, children’s games are played in Plaza de la Iglesia. At 21:00 the figure of Christ is raised, in a ritual filled with emotion and remembrance that takes place inside the church and is accompanied by live music. Worshippers bid farewell to the figure until next year. In the evening, the festivities continue in Plaza de la Iglesia with music from two bands.