The Medieval Fair is returning to Silves from today, the 9th of August, to show what life was like in the former capital of the province that today corresponds to the Algarve, Xilb (Silves), until the 17th.
This year, the base theme is “Xilb, city of love and heartbreak”, referring to the westernmost city of Gharb al-andalus, which became known not only “for the beauty of its palaces, the impregnability of its walls and the sweetness of its its apples and figs, which are exported all over the world", but also "by its poets who left us, in addition to the beauty of the metric of their verses, many stories of love, betrayal and heartbreak, experienced by some of their most illustrious inhabitants", according to the Chamber of Silves.
«The sounds of the time will echo through the city's streets: from the Imam's sermon to the Vizier's welcome to visitors, with the call to prayer by Al-Muezzin echoing from the top of the minaret. The party will be livened up by vendors' sales pitches, engaging music and vibrant dances that bring back memories of the East,” he adds.
As usual, visitors can count on daily medieval processions, which always start at 18pm, and «marks the beginning of the mystical atmosphere of the Fair», with participants traveling through the Medina and the Arrabaldes «dressed to the nines».
Another of the fair's great attractions, the Duels of Honor and Passion, a performance where a simulated fight pits Ibn Ammar and Rummaykkya face to face, which can be seen in Al-Mut'amid Square at 20:00 pm and 22:30 pm.
«The historical recreation gives soul to the event, reflecting the unique color of Silves and its people. Silves is a treasure of cultures, religions and knowledge that shape its unique cultural identity, something that we are deeply proud of», highlighted Rosa Palma, mayor of Silves.
Also at 22:30 pm, Noites do Oriente lights up Silves Castle with a display of music, dance and fire.
In addition to the historical recreations and shows, there is an important gastronomic component, through taverns, but also culinary demonstrations of Arabic cuisine.
There will also be historical entertainment, with the presence of more than a hundred exhibitors, including artisans, artisans, confectioners, mystics and merchants.
«With the visual signature of photographer André Boto, the XIX Silves Medieval Fair promises to be an unforgettable journey to the past.
Come and experience the magic of medieval times with us», according to the Chamber of Silves.
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