Legend of The Holy Cross and A Sense of The May Festival
In the year 1231, when Caravaca figured prominently in the siege to the kingdom of Granada, the Moorish monarch Ceyt Abuceyt accompanied by all his court commanded the priest Father Gines Perez Chirinos to demonstrate his ecclesiastical activity. Just before the celebration of Mass, the priest realized that he forgot to ask for a crucifix which was an essential object to be placed on the altar. Having prayed to God for help, to the surprise of all present, there was the miraculous appearance of the double-arm cross, brought by two angels. This amazing apparition brought about the conversion of the Moorish king to Christianity.
The Power of the Cross of Caravaca is in its original meaning and foremost representative of a religious value which was the starting point maintainer of other values. Without the religious symbolism, the Cross had not had the importance and character development in its history. Secular symbols usually do not cause the same force as religious symbols, which are the meeting place of a transcendent reality and other material.
Caravaca Cross is the symbol of a city, protects and gives strength to all his people, is a deep feeling that are all caravaqueños in his heart, also reaches deep in the heart of the pilgrims who come to the Sanctuary visit. For almost eight centuries the pilgrims worship, was guarded by the Knights Templar and later by the Order of Santiago. Cross also has other connotations and considered. The set of historical experiences and experiences of identity that has accumulated over time, has given a burden and emotional function, representative and starred in the local community and many people outside.
This appearance of the Cross is remembered by the people caravaqueño each year in acts that constitute a real festive tradition supported by a legend with historical foundation, recalled from the Middle Ages. Indeed, the May festivities in honor of the Blessed and Vera Cruz are a perfect combination of color, culture, religion and entertainment in which all citizens participate unconditionally, inviting visitors to share the celebrations. More than just a holiday, the Moors and Christians of Caravaca is a cult of the past, a tribute to its history.
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