XII Quema de Algarrobo
Steps back in time for the 12th edition of La Quema de Algarrobo, one of the municipality’s most distinctive annual celebrations. Over three days, the streets become the setting for historical re-enactments telling the story of Algarrobo, beginning with the capture of Maco Loco and the opening speech on Friday, followed by the main historical scenes and Historical Encounters Parade on Saturday, and further performances on Sunday.
A Little History
La Quema de Algarrobo takes the village back to the early 19th century. The main story recalls 1811, during the Spanish War of Independence, when French troops threatened to burn Algarrobo following clashes with local guerrillas. According to local tradition, a heroic horseman rode to Málaga and returned with a pardon just in time to save the village.
The celebrations also bring to life Maco Loco, a real and notorious local bandit from the early 1900s whose exploits became part of Algarrobo folklore. His capture and dramatic story now form part of the weekend’s historical re-enactments.
📅 18–20 September
📍 Algarrobo
What to Expect
Historical re-enactments and skirmishes
Period theatre and characters
Tapas route and local gastronomy
Exhibitions and workshops
Live music, including a performance by Seguridad Social
Activities taking place at different locations around Algarrobo
PROGRAMME
Friday 18 September
21:00 – Capture of Macoloco, from the mill to the school.
21:00 – Start of the tapas route.
22:00 – Opening speech for the 12th edition of La Quema de Algarrobo, given by José Luis Ruiz Cabezas at the school.
23:00 – Burial of Marcos Loco and Mayor Francisco Ramos, from the school to the church.
Saturday 19 September
11:00 – The Sonnets of Algarrobo: a historical view of Algarrobo through poetry, taking place throughout the village.
12:30 – The French War skirmish, from Calle Antonio Ruiz Rivas to Avenida del Arroyuelo and then to the church.
After the skirmish – Opening of the French headquarters and exhibition in Calle Corta.
18:30 – The guerrillas make their way to the ambush area, from the Town Hall to the river.
18:35 – The French arrive in Algarrobo, from Avenida de Karat to the river.
18:45 – Commanders meet to plan the Battle of the River, at the river.
19:00 – The Segovia Ambush – The French Failure, at the river.
21:30 – Prize-giving.
22:00 – La Quema de Algarrobo – The Heroic Horseman, at the school.
23:30 – Live music by Seguridad Social, in the marquee.
Sunday 20 September
11:30 – Historical Encounters parade, from Avenida del Arroyuelo to the chapel.
13:00 – Performances by invited associations, in the marquee.
13:30 – Official thanks to the historical re-enactors and invited associations, in the marquee.
17:00 – Theatre performance: La Noche de El Melgares, in the marquee.
A lively weekend combining local history, theatre, food and music, with the village providing the backdrop for the story.
Official organisers/ posters/programme: Ayuntamiento de Algarrobo
This event is organised by the participating establishments and promoters. Nerja Amigos provides event information for guidance only and accepts no responsibility for changes to the programme, timings, cancellations or services provided by third parties. Event details may change without notice.
