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Caravaca de la Cruz, 77 kilometers from the city of Murcia, plays a prominent role in the Catholic world. The Vatican recognizes Caravaca as one of the five holy cities. It is in good company with other pilgrimage sites such as Rome, Jerusalem and Santiago de Compostela.
The reason for this status lies at the root of the curious festival of the 'Running with the Vine Horses', which is held annually in May. The core of the party is simple. Sixty horses with pitchers of wine and dressed in embroidered and otherwise embellished cloaks race up the hill to the town. The intention is to complete the route as quickly as possible. The race is not without danger for the spectators, as sometimes the horses and their handlers pass close to the assembled crowd. The fastest horses and the most beautifully decorated will receive a prize.
But what is the origin of this spectacular and exciting celebration? This goes back to the story of the 'True Cross'. Legend has it that Caravaca owns a piece of wood that belonged to the cross on which Jesus died. A relic that gave the town protection since the 13th century and later the status of Holy City. During the siege of Caravaca by Moors, the Muslims poisoned the water supply. Many residents died of thirst or drinking poisoned water.
Brave Templar knights, a military order allied to the Pope, however, had a daring plan. They raced up the hill with horses and pitchers of wine to help the thirsty population. The plan worked. However, the wine didn't just help to quench thirst. Soaking the sacred piece of wood in wine miraculously healed the sick and wounded.
Today's celebrations are in fact reenactments of the historical events of yesteryear. The festival is part of the five day long activities around the Moors and Christians. While the colorful parades of those warring factions in other villages and cities are the apotheosis of the festivities, in Caravaca they play a modest supporting role. In the Holy City, 'Running with the Vine Horses' takes the lead.
