The city of Salou transported its streets back to the 13th century with the 31st edition of the King James I Festival. The event symbolically recreated the departure of the young monarch, James I, from the port of Salou on September 5, 1229, one of the most significant expeditions in medieval history.
A spectacular procession of approximately a thousand people, including knights, nobles, soldiers, religious figures, and musicians, led the celebration. The Torre Vella served as the starting point for the route, which proceeded through various city streets to the Plaça de les Comunitats Autònomes, in front of thousands of spectators.
Historical accuracy was a key highlight, with costumes faithful to the era, the result of months of artisanal work. Around 350 residents of Salou participated, wearing these garments. The procession also included about 50 Templars from Monzón, a town linked to James I's childhood.
The medieval atmosphere was enhanced by decorated streets and a Medieval Market featuring nearly a hundred stalls offering crafts, gastronomy, and local products. Music and street performances enlivened the day.
The final show, El Gran Viatge (The Great Journey), created by the companies La Fam, Draconia, and Traüt, commemorated the monarch's exploits during the conquest of Mallorca with fire, circus acts, and a robotic dragon, bringing the celebration to a close.
