On the first two days of this vibrant historical event the "armies" march through the town to the sound of pipes and drums, preparing for war. All sides and ranks are represented, from elegant Berbers to fork-carrying peasants.

The battle itself takes place on 24 April, the day after St George's Day, complete with large-scale explosions, smoke and screams, and follows the progression of the initial 13th-century fight between Moors and Christians, with the latter struggling at first before reversing the course of the battle.

Taking part in the re-enactment is a real institution in Alcoi, where membership to one of the armies, or filaes, requires year-long devotion towards finding the right costume and practising the manoeuvres. The focus on authenticity makes the event a hair-raising approximation of the Middle Ages: exhilarating for a day, but fairly rough.

If you're planning to visit this popular fiesta, book your accommodation a year in advance to prevent disappointment. To avoid the crowds, watch the parades from the comfort of a seat. Reserve at the Tourist Office or the Asociación de San Jorge two months ahead.