Sunday evening saw the spectacular conclusion of the 2026 Moros y Cristianos celebrations in Oliva, Valencia, as thousands gathered for the dramatic Reconquest of the Castle (Reconquista del Castillo). Combining history, theatre, music and the thunderous sound of black-powder arquebuses, this event is widely regarded as the highlight of the entire festival and provides an unforgettable finale to four days of celebrations.

Unlike the colourful Entrada Mora and Entrada Cristiana parades, the Reconquest focuses on the symbolic battle between the Moorish and Christian armies. A temporary castle dominates the square as ambassadors from each side deliver traditional speeches before the battle begins. Moments later, the peaceful atmosphere is replaced by clouds of smoke and the deafening sound of arquebus fire as both armies fight for control of the fortress.

The firearms used during the event are traditional replica arquebuses, specially designed for festival use. They fire black powder charges only and do not fire bullets or projectiles. Despite this, the explosions are incredibly loud and produce the dramatic flashes and thick white smoke that have become synonymous with Moros y Cristianos celebrations throughout the Valencian Community.

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This year’s reconstruction once again featured all twelve filades, representing both the Moorish and Christian sides of the festival. Together they recreate the historic struggle that forms the basis of these centuries-old celebrations.

Christian Filades

• Contrabanistes
• Jaume I
• Masers
• Pirates
• Templaris
• Mosqueters

Moorish Filades

• Almoràvits
• Marràqueix
• Moriscos
• Tuareg
• Mudèjars
• Taifes

The 2026 Moorish Captaincy was held by the Filà Marràqueix, led by José Mañó Mascarell, while the Christian Captaincy was represented by the Filà Mosqueters, under Rosana Llopis Pous. Their ambassadors once again played central roles during the speeches and symbolic exchanges before the final battle unfolded.

As darkness began to fall over Oliva, the battle intensified. Waves of arquebusiers advanced and retreated across the square, each volley echoing through the town centre as spectators watched from every available viewpoint. Thick smoke drifted across the battlefield, creating an atmospheric backdrop that made the historical re-enactment even more dramatic.

The Reconquest is not intended to be an accurate military recreation but rather a celebration of local heritage and tradition. The costumes, music, ceremonial speeches and carefully choreographed gunfire combine to tell the story of the Christian reconquest while highlighting the friendship and camaraderie that exists between all of the participating filades.

For many visitors, the most memorable part of the evening is the continuous crack of the arquebuses. The combination of bright muzzle flashes, rolling smoke and the powerful percussion of dozens of black-powder firearms creates an experience unlike almost any other festival in Spain. Ear protection is recommended for those standing close to the action, although the impressive spectacle makes the noise well worth experiencing.

Following the final exchange of gunfire, the Christian forces successfully reclaimed the castle, bringing the symbolic conflict to its traditional conclusion and marking the end of another successful edition of the Moros y Cristianos de Oliva. With the battle complete, applause from the crowd recognised not only the performers but also the months of preparation undertaken by every filà to make the festival possible.

If you were unable to attend this year’s celebrations, or simply want to relive one of the most exciting events in the Valencian festival calendar, be sure to watch our complete 4K video of the 2026 Castle Reconquest in Oliva, featuring the full battle, arquebus volleys, speeches and the dramatic finale that brings the Moros y Cristianos festivities to an unforgettable close.