Over 17,000 people gather in Mexican streets for the largest historical re-enactment
The Mexican town of Zacatecas was filled with the sounds of music and the clashes of weapons this August, as 17,601 performers transformed the ornate city centre into a gigantic traditional religious and cultural festival that claimed the Guinness World Records title for the largest historical re-enactment.
Every year, the Brotherhood of San Juan Bautista de Bracho joins up with Zacatecas state government's Ministry of Tourism to organize Las Morismas de Bracho – one of the most vibrant expressions of Zacatecas identity.
For the past 200 years, the Morismas de Bracho is a community theatrical representation of the battles between Moors and Christians, with a historical-religious background dating back to the 19th century – based on medieval Spanish traditions adapted to the culture of the people of northern Mexico.
Featuring three acts, which jump through historical periods and take place over multiple days, the festival focuses on three distinct eras: the first being the biblical era and beheading of John the Baptist, the second as the Middle Ages and the colloquium between Charlemagne and the 12 Peers of France, and the last being the Renaissance era and the Battle of Lepanto between the Holy League and the Ottoman Empire.
These eras are intertwined, and show off dramatic re-creations of battles, speeches, marches, and religious conversions between the West and the East – and particularly how these events contributed to the vibrant culture of Zacatecas. In fact, the Battle of Lepanto connects directly to the city, as Philip II, a leader of the Holy League against the Ottomans, christened the town on 20 June 1588.
“This event is not only a testament to the religious fervor of the region, but also a symbol of the cultural persistence that has united entire generations around a common cause: preserving the living history of our people,” said the event organizers.
“Starting today, the whole world will know how incredible, wonderful, and extraordinary the Morismas de Bracho are, and it goes without saying that they are only found in Zacatecas.”
And for the people of the town, this festival is an intergenerational effort that inspires its community to spend hours making fantastic costumes and sets, training and practising with music, horses and weapons, and working to make each version of La Morisma better than the last.
This year, Guinness World Records Adjudicator Alfredo Arista helped confirm that over 17,000 people took part in festivities, captivating the audience with their colourful visuals, soundtrack, gunpowder, and rich costumes.
“I live in Mexico and I never cease to be amazed by all the attractions each state has to offer,” Alfredo said. “I am amazed by how wonderful and enriching Mexico is, and by this wonderful job that allows me to enjoy these kinds of experiences.”
Held at the foot of San Bernabé Hill in Lomas de Bracho and the historic city centre of Zacatecas – which is declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO – it truly feels like you’re stepping back in time to witness the battles unfold, only this time with the comforts of safety and security.
And by seeing the passion of the performers, and the effort the city puts in to make the show truly colourful and unique, it’s clear that the tradition will continue to get more and more fantastic as it continues.
“This event has the power to place Zacatecas on the global map of the most important cultural celebrations, promoting sustainable tourism, the local economy, and national pride,” said the organizers. “It also represents a living legacy that deserves to be shared, recognized, and protected worldwide.”
Congratulations to all the incredible performers, organizers, and volunteers of La Morisma – you’re all Officially Amazing!