The Historical Recreation of the Battle of Almansa celebrates its 318th anniversary from April 25th to 27th, transporting the city back in time to that military milestone that marked the War of the Spanish Succession.
The Vice President of the Albacete Provincial Council, Fran Valera, along with the Mayor and Provincial Deputy for Equality, Pilar Callado; the Councilor for Culture, Borja López; and the President of the Association ‘1707 Almansa Histórica’, Manuel Olaya, have presented the official program of the event, which can be read in Spanish, Valencian, English, Italian, German, and French. Additionally, as in 2024, a program in easy-to-read format will be published with the collaboration of Asprona, as reported by the Provincial Council in a press release.
Valera emphasized the importance of this historical, cultural, and touristic event that transcends the borders of the province, region, and country with the participation of over 400 reenactors, the incorporation of seven artillery pieces, and the presence of nearly 30 horses, adding grandeur to the recreation. This year, there will be more troop maneuvers.
Furthermore, new features were announced during the event, such as the recreation of the moment when the Vitorero announces the end of the Battle at the Church of the Assumption with the chanting of the ‘Te Deum’. Also, a historically significant element will be present: a cannon from 1793, considered the largest manufactured in Spain, from the Museum of the Royal Artillery Factory of Cantabria. It will be used to fire salutes before the Battle in honor of those who perished and were affected by the DANA.
### IMPLICATION, ENTHUSIASM, AND COMMITMENT
Valera congratulated both the City Council of the city, acknowledging the work they have been doing to make this recreation a success year after year, and the Association ‘1707 Almansa Histórica’, highlighting their involvement, enthusiasm, and commitment. He emphasized that they are «the driving force and the leaders» of this initiative, referring to the historical knowledge and rigor behind the recreation, as well as their focus on innovation as a tourist attraction.
Additionally, he reaffirmed the Provincial Government’s commitment to this event, which he described as «unique,» noting that «there is nothing like it in the province.» He recalled their presence at Fitur alongside the institution, stating that this Tourism Fair is a significant showcase to continue ensuring that the Battle of Almansa resonates beyond a specific date on the calendar.
The Provincial Council has supported this celebration since its inception, and this year they are reinforcing that support with a contribution of up to 25,000 euros, as explained by the Provincial Vice President. This investment not only benefits the territory in economic and touristic terms during the weekend but also in terms of knowledge over time. «The Provincial Council will continue to make an effort because we believe that this event is worthwhile and will elevate Almansa to where it deserves to be.»
Furthermore, Valera emphasized that from a pivotal historical event, a significant event has been shaped, declared a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest, showcasing and promoting this city. This is achieved through the recreation of a battle but with a deep sense of peace, which he believes is more necessary than ever in the current context.
Finally, Valera encouraged the residents of Almansa to «fill the old town, appreciate the Baroque market, and occupy the stands at the battlefield.»
### A PROGRAM WITH HISTORICAL ACCURACY
As announced during the presentation, activities will commence on Friday at 12:00 with the ringing of bells reminiscent of the Battle of Almansa. In the afternoon, guided tours will take place throughout the weekend, as well as the opening of the Baroque Market, featuring a troop parade through the old town. The market will remain open to the public until Sunday with a variety of activities for all ages.
On Saturday, with the historical camps open, the representation of the moment when the Vitorero announced the end of the Battle will take place, followed by a Baroque concert by the Coral Unión Musical de Almansa.
In the afternoon, the Battlefield, which now has almost 4,000 seats in its stands (for the two passes), will host the first of two recreations, followed by a troop parade back to the camps.
On Sunday, with the troops at the foot of the city’s Castle, the raising of the flags will occur. This is a precursor to the parade to the battlefield, where the second recreation will take place with the ‘In Memoriam’ ceremony for the fallen of both sides, including a military parade, inspection, honor salute, and floral tribute.
FUENTE