Napoleon Invades Benidorm

Military events which took place almost 200 years ago in the War of Spanish Independence will be recreated this Sunday in Benidorm. The streets of town will bear witness to the nicer parts of war when the Infantry Regiment of the Valencia Line march through town in full period regalia - uniforms, weapons, flags and drums.

The 'regiment' is part of the Napoleonic Association of Valencia who travel round the country and abroad giving displays such as this. The regiment really did fight in the war against Napoleon in battles at Tudela, Alcañiz, Tarragona, Lérida, Sagunto and the defence of Zaragoza in 1809 before being taken prisoner when Valencia fell to Marshall Suchet in 1812.

The lads will secure the following streets for the forces of Spain during their march which starts at 12.30 - Rufaza, Palmera, Alameda and Mayor - and will no doubt be sending a few scouting parties round the bars a little later.

Historical footnote 1. One of the few Spanish words to have a place in the English language - guerrilla - originated during this conflict when small groups of Spanish partisans harried the French forces.

15 February 2006 Stephen White.