Moors and Christians in Pollença

On 2 August, feast of the Patrona (Our Lady of the Angels), Pollença re-enacts the 1550 attack by the corsair Dragut, a tradition held since 1860. At 19:00 the church bells ring and Joan Mas, the captain who led the defence, shouts 'Pollencins, alçau-vos! Els pirates són aquí!' (People of Pollença, rise up! The pirates are here!). An improvised battle then breaks out between hundreds of Moors and Christians, in about seven clashes from Plaça de l'Almoina to the Can Escarrinxo football ground; the Christians always win. The day starts with the dawn music round at 5:00, mass with the cossiers' Ball de l'Oferta is at 11:00 and the Patrona procession at 17:30; a Te Deum in Plaça Major and fireworks at 23:30 close it. Tip: people take their spots hours in advance; bring water, keep out of the battle route and park outside the centre.