The unique
charms of Elche
Today we
propose a visit to the third largest city of the Region of Valencia in number
of inhabitants, Elche is located in the south coast
of Alicante . Elche is well known for its industrial wealth but also
what makes it unique and unforgettable is the Mystery Play of Elche (chanted drama of mediaeval origins) and its Palm
Grove, the largest in Europe . A unique and
special heritage of the city.
If you are
travelling to a new city usually, you
will include in your trip the classic tour of the old town, somewhere on top
with good views, the visit to some museums, churches ... and Elche has all of that, but if Elche is known
worldwide is thanks to two pieces of their heritage not so easy to
classify. The first is the Mystery Play of Elche, designated as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage
of Humanity by UNESCO, and the second is its Palm Grove, recognized by the same institution as a World Heritage Site.
The Palm Grove of Elche originates from the
10th Century. It is the largest in Europe and only some Arab palm
groves exceed it. It contains up to 200,000 palm trees distributed in small
groups called “huertos” orchards. Elche is the only place in the world that
persists in the artisanal production of palms. In addition to the exquisite
dates, these white palms are carried in religious events by celebrities like
the Pope. A green paradise in the city that makes its a must visit.
Located 25 km from Alicante,
belonging to the Bajo Vinalopó and along the coast, Elche has 12 km of beach but this is
not the magnet that draws the tourists in the summer. Between August 14th and
15th every year is the staging of the Mystery
of Elche, a sacred-lyrical religious drama that recreates the Assumption of
the Virgin Mary. Divided into two acts each time the representation is made in
the Basilica of Santa Maria, with a
great display of sacred music and choirs, in a subtle blend of medieval,
baroque and renaissance.
This unique
work dates back to the fifteenth century and what differentiates it from other
oral traditions is that recreation has continuously maintained since. All
characters featured are male and the text is written in old Valenciano, with a
few parts in Latin. Those who have ever seen the staging of the Mystery say it
is very impressive.
Another
famous part of the heritage of the town itself is the statue called the Lady of Elche. Although no longer
located in its origin but now in the National Archaeological Museum of Madrid.
The statue is a limestone sculpture from the Iberian period (between 5th
and 6th V Century BC)
Colegio Internacional Alicante knows the importance of highlight the richness
of this country and its historical, artistic and natural variety. Elche is one
of those trips that surprise students.
http://www.lafesta.com/
No hay comentarios:
Publicar un comentario