Plaza Vieja in Bullas, officially named Plaza del Teniente Flomesta Moya

The name of the square comes from a Bullas-born Rif War hero

One of the most popular squares in Bullas is far from being the largest, but has its own character and plenty of establishments which make it one of the most picturesque and interesting parts of the town to visit.

This is the Plaza del Teniente Flomesta Moya, which is unofficially known as the “Plaza Vieja” (the old square), reflecting the fact that it was replaced as the central square of Bullas by what is now known as the Plaza de España in the early 19th century, having been home to the most important events in Bullas since independence from Cehegín was gained in 1689.

However, the story behind its official name is of more interest to historians: Diego Flomesta Moya was a native of Bullas, where he was born in 1890, and went on to become a national hero. As a member of the 6th Artillery Batallion of the Spanish army he was stationed in Melilla, in northern Africa, in 1919, and was soon placed in charge of the Rayen detachment before taking part in operations in Arrayen, Lao, Cheif and Tamamsin.

In early 1921 he joined the 1st Battery in Annual, and on 1st June of that year led the column which marched to occupy Abarrán. However, this mission ran into problems, and despite suffering wounds to the head and arm he soon found himself in charge after Captain Juan Salafranca Barrio was fatally wounded. Lacking ammunition, his position eventually fell into enemy hands despite his heroic efforts to defend it.

Flomesta Mayo was taken prisoner by the Riffians, but despite his injuries refused to teach them how to operate the artillery devices they had captured. Instead he began a hunger strike which led to his death on 30th June, and was posthumously honoured in 1923 and 1924.

Nowadays, the Plaza is a small but attractive space in the old quarter of Bullas, with brightly coloured façades being complemented by awnings to fend off the sun during the summer. One of the most notable features is the arch which leads to the Plaza del Castillo, and this is part of a historic route through old Bullas which also includes the ruins of a tower on Calle Peseta.

Although the Plaza de España is now home to the Town Hall, the parish church and the Casa de Cultura of Bullas, the Plaza del Teniente Flomesta Moya is still important as one of the venues, along with the Plaza del Castillo, at which the popular El Zacatín arts and crafts market is held on the first Sunday morning of every month. In addition, it plays an important part in the Easter Week celebrations, as it is the place where the processions carrying the main religious statues have met during the Easter Sunday celebrations since the late 19th century.

For more local news, events and other information consult the Bullas section of Murcia Today.