Arquers

Founded in 1968, it emerged from a group of festival-goers from the Mossàrabs comparsa who decided to create a new one.

Initially they wore Robin Hood-style clothing. In 1986 they changed it to other clothes in the classic Christian warrior style.

In 2004, a commission worked to bring the costume closer to medieval history. Thus, the current attire is as similar as possible to that of a 13th century archer, specifically that of a crossbowman of King James I, who participated in the events of the conquest of Valencia and, therefore, in the incorporation of Ontinyent into the Crown of Aragon.

The outfit is based on a brown tunic covered by a two-coloured breastplate (cream and orange). The sleeves follow the line of the mesh fabric that is also incorporated to protect the legs and cover the head. It is completed with a leather belt, bag, wristbands and crown, all decorated with metal studs. On their backs they carry a quiver with arrows and a bow, the identifying weapon of the Archers. Also, the original cross of the group has been placed on the tunic, along with some red diagonal bars.

One of the main decorative elements is the railings of the Crown of Aragon, the coat of arms of King James I and an identifying element of his troops as well as of the royal towns, such as Ontinyent.

In this symbolic way they integrate the idea of belonging to the armies of the Conquest of Valencia with the city's flag, and highlight the identification of the group with our town.