Misterio de Elche

The Misteri d’Elx is a medieval lyrical drama that has been performed since the 13th century. It belongs to the tradition of Assumption plays once widespread throughout Mediterranean Europe and draws on several Apocryphal Gospel texts that were particularly popular during the Middle Ages. The original text is written in Valencian, apart from a psalm and a few verses in Latin, and comprises a total of 259 verses.

Music is one of the performance’s most remarkable features. Its melodies come from different historical periods, having been incorporated over the centuries by various composers.

This extraordinary sacred drama is considered the only living example of early lyrical theatre of its kind. It is also the only performance in the world staged inside a church, the Basilica of Santa María, thanks to a special privilege granted by Pope Urban VIII.

The performance is divided into two acts. The first depicts the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, surrounded by apostles and angels, while the second portrays her Assumption into Heaven. Together, they create a magnificent spectacle accompanied by exquisite medieval music.

One of the most striking moments occurs when an angel descends on the Mangrana, a special aerial device, carrying a beautifully decorated white palm. The angel presents it to the Virgin Mary, who then places it in the hands of the Apostle John. Before passing it on, Mary kisses the palm, blessing it in a deeply symbolic gesture. At the end of the performance, its leaves are distributed among the people, allowing this blessing to be shared with the community.

Afterwards, the Misteri continues through the streets in the procession known as the soterrar of Mary, featuring songs from the Festa and the participation of the performers.

The two main acts are staged every year on 14 and 15 August, respectively, and admission is free. General rehearsals take place on 11, 12 and 13 August, with tickets required to attend.

In even-numbered years, additional performances are also organised in October and November. On these occasions, both acts take place on 1 November, with the first performed in the morning and the second in the afternoon. Rehearsals are held on 29 and 30 October. As in August, admission to the performances on 1 November is free, while tickets are needed for the rehearsals.