Pilar de la Horadada travelled more than 700 years into the past on Saturday with its first historical re-enactment of the 1304 Arbitration of Torrellas—an event that helped shape the municipality and establish the historic frontier between the kingdoms of Aragón and Castile.
More than 500 people attended the spectacular production, staged in the park on Calle Ciudad de Almería in the El Mojón urbanisation.
María García, director of the municipal Culture Department, explained the significance of the Arbitration of Torrellas and the roles played by King James II of Aragón and King Ferdinand IV of Castile in defining the territorial boundaries of the period.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling by Mayor José María Pérez Sánchez of a three-metre-high replica of a 14th-century royal boundary marker. Positioned close to the present municipal boundary, it recalls the original marker that once identified the historic frontier.
The mayor also unveiled a plaque near the coastline featuring an artistic representation of the old border. Created using different coloured marbles, with the Raya Real frontier marked in bronze, the artwork depicts the two former territories and places modern-day El Mojón directly across the historic dividing line.
The installation is intended to become a permanent landmark where residents and visitors can learn about the history of this important frontier location.
Mayor Pérez Sánchez highlighted Pilar de la Horadada’s distinctive identity as a border municipality. He said its position at the southern entrance to the Valencian Community and Alicante province has shaped its history, traditions and cultural heritage.
The initiative was organised by Pilar de la Horadada Town Hall’s Tourism Department with support from Alicante Provincial Council. Organisers hope the re-enactment will become an annual event that grows in scale and popularity.
Tourism councillor Eva Martínez said recovering and sharing local heritage helps people understand their identity and appreciate the area in which they live. She added that the celebration could promote culture, attract visitors, stimulate the local economy and strengthen pride in Pilar de la Horadada.
