In Caravaca de la Cruz, passions surrounding the annual May festivities have flared up once again. This time, the reason is the selection of the official herald (pregonero) for the Fiesta de la Vera Cruz 2026. The commissionβs decision turned out to be far from a formality, becoming a true event already discussed both backstage and on the cityβs streets. At the center of attention is lawyer Manuel Alfonso Guerrero Zamora, a man with an impressive history of participating in the celebrations and an equally remarkable family biography.
The formal ceremony took place in an atmosphere marked by excitement, pride, and even some nervousness. The event was opened by the elder brother (hermano mayor) of the Real and Illustrious Brotherhood of the Most Holy and True Cross (Real e Ilustre CofradΓa de la Stma. y Vera Cruz), JesΓΊs LΓ³pez Baquero. The hall gathered representatives of all three groups: Moros, Cristianos, and Caballos del Vino, as well as relatives of the future herald, secretary Antonio ReinΓ³n, and mayor JosΓ© Francisco GarcΓa. After the welcome, ReinΓ³n took the floor, not only highlighting Guerrero Zamoraβs achievements but also reading out the protocol of the session where his candidacy was unanimously approved. He reminded everyone: it is the herald who opens the festivities, launching the events eagerly awaited by thousands of residents and visitors on the plaza del Arco.
Emotions and revelations
The moment the official document was presented turned out to be genuinely moving. Guerrero Zamora could not hide his mixed emotions: gratitude, excitement, joy, and even uncertainty. He admitted that for any resident of Caravaca, being the town crier is not just an honor but a dream that had long seemed unattainable. Along with this, however, came the realization of responsibility: before him, this role had been held by respected and well-known figures, and now he would have to live up to their legacy.
In his speech, Guerrero Zamora noted that, although he has not marched with the Soberana Orden del Temple for almost twelve years, he still feels part of this tradition. His declaration that he is “a festero to the core” drew approving applause from the audience. There was room for reminiscing as well: the future town crier promised to share with the townspeople the most vivid moments of his life connected to the festival, and admitted that for him, this is a chance to proclaim what happens in Caravaca de la Cruz at the start of May.
Family roots
Congratulations poured in from all sides: representatives of each of the three bandosβGloria SΓ‘nchez (Bando Moro), Antonio Torresilla (Bando Cristiano), and Pedro JosΓ© Salcedo (Bando de los Caballos del Vino)βoffered their hopes and best wishes. The mayor of the town recalled Guerrero Zamora’s family traditions, mentioning his grandfather, Manuel Guerrero Torres, a well-known writer and chronicler. According to the mayor, the new town crier has all the qualities to make his performance unforgettable: experience, charisma, and the ability to engage an audience.
The life story of Guerrero Zamora is remarkable in itself. He was born in Caravaca de la Cruz in 1963 and from early childhood was immersed in the festive atmosphere. His grandfather, Alfonso Zamora, was one of the founders of Bando Cristiano, while his father, Juan Miguel Guerrero, not only led this group but also played a role in its renewal. Manuel Alfonso himself, a trained lawyer and graduate of Universidad de Murcia, worked as an attorney, held management positions in urban planning and regional governance, and also served as director of local administration and housing policy.
The Festero’s Path
Guerrero Zamora first attended the festival as an infantβin 1965, when he was not even two years old. Over the next half-century, he rose from captain of children’s groups to vice president of the Sur Order of the Templars, and later Bando Cristiano. In 2000, he was named Cristiano of the Year, and in 2006, he received the Golden Shield. Over the years, he served on festival organizing committees, helped draft statutes, and was even a deputy in the Vera Cruz Brotherhood. In addition, Guerrero Zamora is known for his articles and presentations for festival magazines and publications focused on the traditions of Caravaca.
The Fiestas de la Vera Cruz, held annually in early May, are recognized as an event of international significance. At the heart of the celebration is the Lignum Crucis relic, venerated by the Brotherhood. The festival brings together three bands: Moro, Cristiano, and Caballos del Vino, with the highlight being the herald’s speech in Plaza Arco. This year, the choice fell on someone who not only knows the traditions from within but is also able to convey their spirit to the thousands gathered.
Secrets and anticipation
The appointment of Guerrero Zamora has already sparked debate: some see him as the ideal candidate, while others recall old family ties and the influence of clans on the town’s life. For his part, the future herald makes no secret that it’s not just a personal triumph, but also a great responsibility. Ahead are months of preparation, meetings with band representatives, discussing the scenario, and, of course, working on the speech that thousands will hear.
In Caravaca de la Cruz, everyone is waiting: what will this celebration be like, what will the new herald say, and will he be able to surprise even the most seasoned festero? One thing is certainβno one will remain indifferent, and the intrigue around the May festivities continues to build.
