The countdown is now on for the thirteenth medieval market to take place in the city of Orihuela.

The mayor of Orihuela, Monserrate Guillen, as well as the councillor for festivities, Carolina Gracia, presented the plan for this year which will be the biggest and best so far, which is some feat considering the event has already gained such a positive reputation across the entire country.

The market alone will be bigger than ever, spreading over 3 kilometres, offering crafts, traditional gifts, clothing, food, drink and much more, all with a very medieval feel, as market traders dress themselves and their stalls to catapult us back to a time long ago, a time of fantasy for some and an era when the most simple things meant the most.

The markets stalls are a large part of the event, but are not the only part of the fiesta. There will also be around 20 craft workshops when you can try your hand at making some of the gifts on sale in the marketplace. There will also be around 30 shows, from theatre to circus and music in between.

The whole city will be taking part, in one way or another, flying the flag for the event that marks the official launch of festivities, now the Christmas lull has eased.

The event will take place on the weekend of the 3rd, 4th and 5th of February and there is even more good news because the city council have arranged for a bus service that will run from the Orihuela Costa, so those living on the coast can leave their car at home and let the bus take you direct to the event. Costing just 4,90€ for the return ticket, it is even cheaper than the cost of petrol for some cars.

There is a bus that runs on Saturday and Sunday leaving at 10:00 in the morning from Playa Flamenca Mercadona, returning at 3:00 in the afternoon on both days. There is also a bus in the evening that runs additionally on the Friday, departing Playa Flamenca at 5pm, returning at 10pm. The bus will also be available to call at Entre Naranjos and also at Los Dolces or Eagle´s Nest, should the demand require it. Booking is essential though and you can do this in Playa Flamenca town hall, by phone on 966 760 000 ext. 31 and 32 and by email to touristinfo_orihuelap@gva.es.

If you have yet to experience on of these events during your time in Spain, this is certainly one to start. You will not be disappointed, as many people will testify, who return year after year. It may be in the thirteenth year, but it will certainly not be the last, but for a unique day out, go along and explore the ‘Legend of the Orihuela Medieval Market´.