Monzón homenajea a Jaime I y Guillem de Mont-Rodón en el siglo XIII

Monzón returns to the thirteenth century on the weekend of May 23-25 with the Templar Tribute XXIII to Jaime I and Guillem de Mont-Rod-Rode, where more than 600 participants will recreate a historical event that marked the creation of the Crown of Aragon.

The mayor of Monzón, Isaac Claver, presented this tourist and cultural event in Zaragoza, accompanied by the Minister of Environment and Tourism of the Government of Aragon, Manuel Blasco, and a representation of figures dressed in period attire.

«We recreate the arrival of King Jaime as a child, known as the ‘Conqueror’ in the city of Monzón, and his custody and tutelage under the Templar order from 1214 to 1217, along with his commander Guillem de Mont-Rodón,» explained Claver. Over 70 events are scheduled throughout the weekend, running parallel to the XIX edition of the traditional arts and crafts fair.

The true essence of the celebration, according to Mayor Claver, lies in the participation and commitment of thousands of Montisonens who dress up for the occasion. «We have a multitude of associations, neighbors, and participants from six autonomous communities coming together to relive a unique and special moment where we recreate our history, appreciate our heritage, origins, and roots.» Claver also highlighted the collaboration with the twin city of Muret in France.

Activities will involve many Montisonense residents, with over 300 people from 34 groups, along with more than 1,300 participants in the Jaimas activities, including scavenger hunts, workshops, musical performances, and a competition with additional prizes.

Key events include a grand parade on Saturday and a tour of the Medieval Fair on Sunday morning at the Antonio Lungeta Auditorium. A new theatrical scene titled «Decision: A King for Monzón» will be performed on Friday at 9:00 pm, featuring a band performing the play «Templar.»

This XXIII edition will feature a Templar train, in collaboration with Adif, transporting around 200 visitors from Zaragoza to Monzón. This service will be complemented by a Templar bus, in partnership with Advance and Aventín, promoting tourism in Zaragoza, Huesca, and Catalonia.

The medieval market with 75 stalls will open on Saturday morning, offering street performances, demonstration workshops, and food and craft stalls. The Jaima area in Parque Azucarera will host many participatory activities for local groups, while guided tours and theatrical performances are also scheduled in the castle and cathedral.

Minister Blasco highlighted the impact of this medieval event on Monzón’s tourism promotion, which has been recognized for its tourist appeal in Aragon and aspires for national recognition. The government of Aragon has allocated 40,000 euros for this event, supporting various activities and promoting the event itself.

Mayor Claver emphasized the unique historical accuracy of the Templar tribute to Jaime I and Guillem de Mont-Rodón compared to other historical reenactments, stressing the precision of the events, costumes, performances, and settings. He also noted that this event is approved by the Spanish Association of Historical and Recreational Events and carries an intangible component of love and passion.

In conclusion, Minister Blasco praised the efforts of the Montisonensians in maintaining and expanding this medieval event, ensuring its continued success. He recognized the event’s dual impact, both economically on the municipality and region and sentimentally in reaffirming the importance of a city like Monzón.

Isaac Claver mentioned the high turnout not only in Monzón but also in Binéfar and Barbastro, with thousands of people mobilizing during the weekend, hundreds staying overnight, and visitors coming from six different autonomous communities.

FUENTE