Alcoy boasts a rich and varied history, shaped by the many cultures that have called it home over the centuries. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, but it was during the Roman and Moorish periods that Alcoy began to emerge as an important settlement. After the Christian Reconquista in the 13th century, Alcoy became a key player in Spain’s growing textile industry, which fueled its development during the Industrial Revolution. The city is sometimes called “The City of Bridges” because of the many bridges that cross the rivers and ravines surrounding it, a legacy of its industrial past.
Alcoy is perhaps best known for its annual Moors and Christians festival, a vibrant celebration that commemorates the battles between the two groups during the Reconquista. This festival, held every April, attracts thousands of visitors from around the world and is an explosion of color, music, and historical reenactments. Alcoy also celebrates other traditional festivities such as the Fiesta of the Three Kings, which features one of Spain’s oldest and most elaborate parades.
Culturally, Alcoy reflects a blend of its industrial heritage and its deep-rooted traditions. The city has several museums, including the Museum of the Moors and Christians and the Archaeological Museum, which highlight its historical importance. Local customs, such as making artisanal textiles and leather goods, are still preserved today, adding to its cultural richness.