Each year, Caravaca de la Cruz holds the equestrian ritual of Los Caballos del Vino (Wine Horses) from 1-3 May, as part of the fiestas in honor of the Sant sima y Vera Cruz.
The event is one of a series of events in which the horse is the protagonist. Following a number of parades, a race against the clock takes place up the hill to the castle. The horses run with four handlers, leading up to the fortress, where prize money and embroidered cloaks are awarded.
Caravaca de la Cruz, also known as Caravaca, is a town in southeastern Spain in the region of Murcia, the capital of the northwest region of the same name. The Santuario de la Vera Cruz (Sanctuary of the True Cross) is a monastery in Caravaca town that features several convents and a fine parish church.
As early as the 8th century, Arabs and Berbers invaded the Spanish peninsula, causing a conflict with the local residents that lasted nearly 800 years, resulting in the control of the peninsula by a coalition of Christian kingdoms.
During the 8th century on 2 May, the horses were paraded through the streets of Caravaca with their brilliant robes, which were embroidered with silk and gold. Embroidery techniques were learned in workshops and embroidery in families, as well as knowledge and techniques relating to caring for, breeding, harnessing, and handling horses. The gates of the festival were opened wide as a dedication to the Blessed. This was a display of symbolism. As a festival, the origins blend together history and legend and gives the festival its strength, value, beauty, and senses.
Processions and parades of Christians and Moors are especially significant and the specific celebration of Horses of Wine is also highly relevant. This festival was declared of International Tourist Interest by UNESCO in 2004 and is now part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
It is said that the people and horses of Caravaca de la Cruz have a mutually respectful relationship passed down through generations. Wine-growing and horse-breeding are integral to the economy, history, and culture of the area, and this festival showcases values such as comradeship and unity, with everyone feeling part of a socially united group.