Mantas de Bocairent (Spain)

Plaça de l’Ajuntament, Bocairent, on the firts night of the ‘Moros y Cristianos’ festival.

If you want to see the iconic ‘Mantas de Bocairent’, one of the best times to do so is during the informal opening parade of the ‘Moros y Cristianos’ festival in Bocairent. Held every year in early February, this festival kicks off with a fun and lively first night where groups of friends and family gather, many of them proudly wearing the famous Bocairent blankets. It’s a unique chance to see these beautiful textiles in action, wrapped around the locals in a joyous display of tradition and camaraderie.

The blankets themselves are made from high-quality wool sourced from local sheep, and each one reflects generations of craftsmanship. The artisans of Bocairent have perfected these weaving techniques over centuries, passing down their skills to ensure the quality and beauty of each piece. Historically, the textile trade has been at the heart of Bocairent’s economy. For centuries, the town has been a key center of wool production in the region, and the tradition continues to this day.

If you visit Bocairent during the festival, you’ll not only get to see these beautiful blankets, you also get a chance to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the colorful parades. You will learn that the ‘Mantas de Bocairent’ are more than just blankets – they are a symbol of local pride, craftsmanship, and a connection to the past.