What is behind the singular coat of arms of Alozaina?

The emblem of Alozaina represents a woman standing on top of a tower throwing beehives at two Moors who are seen fleeing from below.

The story behind this symbol of the town is intriguing with María Sagredo, a local heroine, taking center stage.

The story goes that in the summer of 1570 the male inhabitants of the village were harvesting wheat in the fields while only seven men and the women and children remained at home.

The Moors, knowing that the men would be out guarding the fields, decided to take advantage of the situation and take over the town. Some 600 Moriscos dressed as Castilians marched up the hill towards the town.

Seeing the imminent danger, the women disguised themselves as men and tried to defend their home.

María Sagredo, a young woman, seeing her father wounded, marched through the hordes of people towards the tower.

With fury and determination, he climbed to the top and threw beehives at the Moors who tried to climb the stairs of the castle where the people took refuge.

Struck by the angry hives and swarms of bees, the Moors fled quickly. Meanwhile, the bells had been rung to signal the peasants that they were being attacked, they returned, and the Moors withdrew, realizing that they had been defeated.

News of the incredible confrontation spread throughout Spain reaching the King, who rewarded María Sagredo with land in Torrox to show his appreciation. The legend of her impressive willpower and quick thinking is commemorated in the town’s unique emblem.

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