Cristo Rey Fiesta at Mojácar´s hamlet, Sopalmo.

Cristo Rey Fiesta at Mojácar´s hamlet, Sopalmo.

Sopalmo recently held its traditional Cristo Rey Fiesta, in honour of their Patron Saint, which is held every year at the height of Mojácar’s tourist season.

Mojácar’s Tourist Office Manager, Carmen García Campoy, gave the opening speech, speaking of Sopalmo’s tranquil way of life, just like Mojácar of old.  María Isabel Montoya García was then crowned Fiesta Queen with Ana Artero Ayora, Andrea García González, Rocío García Pérez and Marisa Haro Torres presented as her Dames of Honour.

The Fiesta also revived its traditional ribbon race for married couples (for the first time in years) as well as for the children, giving the chance for many older ones to take part in the fun, once again.  There was also the traditional mass to pay honour to Cristo Rey, followed by dancing until the early hours.

José Antonio Fernández, Mayor of the local hamlet, was delighted with the number of locals who took part in the proceedings and, gave special thanks to the many visitors who joined in and made it all so special.

The hamlet of Sopalmo, is part of the Mojácar municipality and, with its position at the edge of the Mediterranean, offers some of the most spectacular views along the Almerian coast.  Today it is still restful and charming, managing to keep the feel and magic of times gone by and be a place that offers an opportunity for peace in its delightful setting.  Sopalmo, however, was once the scene of intense industrial activity in the 19th century with the exploitation of the three iron mines in Sierra de Cabrera, located between Soplamo and La Belfa.