In this article, I present le Castella Catalan tradition of human towers, for an activity that has been listed as a Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage Site since 2010.
Here you'll find
- A presentation of Castells Catalans
- Information on the origins of this tradition
- How to take part in this unusual activity
- Where and when to see them during your stay in Barcelona
- And much more!
If you're looking for information on castells, you'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
Castell: article summary
Castell: Catalonia's impressive human towers
Depending on when you visit Barcelonayou'll have the opportunity to familiarize yourself with different Catalan traditions. From Caga Tio Christmas Easter MonasThere will be plenty to discover.
But the most surprising may well be that of the Castell ! Let me introduce you to her.
Introducing the Castells tradition Â
The term Castell derives from the word Château in Catalan, and refers to a tradition of human towersunique to the Catalan region.
This practice is thought to have originated in XVIIth century in the Valencian country and derives from dances called moixigangues. To conclude a celebration, it was customary to perform small human towers to mark the end of the dance.
Little by little, these human towers will become increasingly imposing and spectacular. Those who do so develop new techniques and between the 19th and early 20th centuries, considered the Castell's first golden age, the practice is very popular in southern Catalonia.
At the beginning of the 20th century, a major vine disease, coupled with the creation of a railroad linking the Province of Tarragona to Barcelona, led to the development of the vineyard. high immigration to the Catalan capital. As a result, Castell is less popular in its native region.
However, after Franco's dictatorship, this unusual discipline took on a new lease of life. the 1980s will be considered the second golden age of these human towers. Clubs were formed, new forms were created, and the Castell was exported to other regions and even other countries. Indeed, this type of event can be seen in Brazil, Chile and even China !
The traditional Casteller costume
Castel is practiced by from Castellerchanting their motto Força, Equilibri, Valor i Senywhich could be translated as strength, balance, courage and judgment. And all wear a very specific traditional costume which consists of :
- Visit colored shirtwhich indicates which Castell school you belong to. In general, the coat of arms of the colla (school) in question
- A rectangular black belt (called Faixa), which can be used as a hook when climbing!
- A white pantsin denim for strength and comfort
- Visit Mocador castellerwhich is a scarf worn on the head, wrist or knees, depending on the Casteler's preference.
- Helmets for children under 18, compulsory since 2006
The Casteler's costume is inspired by the outfits traditionally worn by Valencian dancers!
How does a Castell work?
These events take place in a specific location, often opposite the town hall or on a popular public square.
Le Castell is made up of men, women and children, who have to build a human tower (or pyramid). from 6 to 10 floors climbing over each other.
The structure is well established, with a trunk made up of 2 to 5 strong men, followed by pom de daltor upper floors where bodies lighterOften girls and children climb up to make up the highest part.
The base of the Castell is called the Pinya and everyone can take part! It is of vital importance, as it helps to strengthen and support the structure as a whole.
Once formed, the Castell is a veritable human tower, impressively cheered by the crowds during popular festivals. A true moment of communion not to be missed if you're in Barcelona for this type of event!
Good to know Castellers train long and hard to achieve such results. That's why there are so many schools of Castel - the castellated glues - in Catalonia. Don't try to reproduce this at home... !  Â
Where and when can you attend this cultural event in Barcelona?
Castells can be seen in several Spanish regionsbut also in France (in the Pyrénées-Orientales region), the Balearic Islands and South America.
À Barcelonasome can be seen :
- Visit Sunday at noonin Barcelona's Town Hall Square, during the months of February, June and September
- On the occasion of neighborhood parties of the city (the Festes Majors), which punctuate the whole year. For example, the Graçia district takes place between the end of June and the beginning of July / Those of the Saints are generally held in August
- For some university partiesduring which young castellers demonstrate their climbing skills
- During the Catalan 100 % celebrations, as September 11Catalonia's national holiday
If you would like to take part in an unusual activity in Barcelona (as spectators!), don't miss these unusual performances during your stay.
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