From July 11th to 13th, 2025, the historic village of Cacela Velha, in southern Portugal, will once again be transformed into a vibrant Mediterranean oasis with the return of Noites da Moura Encantada. For three magical evenings, from 6:00 PM to midnight, visitors will be immersed in a cultural celebration inspired by the tales, music, flavors, and legends of the Arabian Nights — and entry is completely free.
Cacela Velha’s charming cobbled streets will become a lively souq, echoing the spirit of traditional Arab markets. Local and international artisans will showcase ceramics, jewelry, textiles, spices, and sweet delicacies. Visitors can also participate in Arabic calligraphy workshops, percussion and dance demonstrations, while the scent of incense drifts through the air and traditional melodies set the mood.
The cultural program blends the mystique of the past with artistic expression:
Live concerts inspired by Andalusian and Maghrebi traditions, including “Music of the Three Cultures” (with Helena Madeira at the old cistern) and “Music of Al-Andalus” (by Emilio Villalba and Sara Marina at the church);
Puppet theatre, with performances of the traditional tale “The Legend of the Almond Trees in Bloom”;
Storytelling sessions with Rita Sales, reviving ancient oral traditions and Moorish legends;
Spiritual interludes, such as the evocative call to prayer (Adhan), inviting reflection in a unique setting;
Street performances by groups like El Laff, Sufi Soul, and Guérrab, with vibrant live music, fire shows, belly dancing, and mystical atmospheres that light up the summer nights.
Between performances, visitors can sample authentic Mediterranean cuisine — from fragrant tagines to rosewater pastries and spiced nuts — offered at various food stands. The stunning view over the Ria Formosa at dusk, with the low tide reflecting the starlit sky, creates a dreamlike backdrop.
The festival’s name pays tribute to the mythical Moura Encantada — enchanted Moorish women from Portuguese folklore, said to appear on special nights to guard ancient treasures and whisper tales from a forgotten time. By evoking these legends, Noites da Moura Encantada becomes more than an event — it is a celebration of the Algarve’s multicultural identity, rooted in centuries of shared history.
For three unforgettable nights, Cacela Velha becomes more than a village — it becomes a portal to a world of wonder, where storytelling, tradition, and artistry intertwine. If you’re looking for an immersive cultural escape this summer in the Algarve, this is a must-see experience.
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