Festival of Sant Jordi in Barcelona
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Loading... - Matias Torres
- 11 Apr 2023
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Roses, books and lovers: Barcelona is full of them on 23 April. In Catalonia the World Book Day becomes an especially romantic festivity.
The people in Catalonia celebrate the day of their patron saint, Sant Jordi, with a curious tradition. If you want to know what it's about, its origin and how to enjoy this day, please carry on reading.
What is the Festival of Sant Jordi and when is it?
It is one of the most original celebrations in Catalonia and takes place in spring, on 23 April. It is a very popular festival that combines culture and romanticism, celebrating both World Book Day and Valentine’s Day. On this day, it is custom for couples to exchange gifts: the men receive a book and the women receive a rose. However, this has developed over time, so both men and women can receive books and roses. Book and flower stalls are set up along the streets of Barcelona. The streets fill with people walking around stalls, looking for a gift for their beloved, and for their family and friends too. You will find the latest publications, see well-known artists signing copies of their books, and of course, smell the scent of the roses.
What can you see and do in Barcelona on 23 April?
It is a day for walking around the city and enjoying the atmosphere of the festival. Streets such as La Rambla, Paseo de Gracia, Paseo de Sant Joan and Rambla de Cataluña are must-visits because they are full of stalls selling books and roses, as well as literary activities such as workshops and recitals. It is also easy to enjoy the ‘sardanas’ (traditional dances) and the popular ‘castells’ (human towers) throughout the day in places such as the Plaza Sant Jaume.
Sant Jordi day is also an opportunity to visit buildings such as the Town Hall, the Palau Güell, the art nouveau complex of Sant Pau, the Ateneo and the Palau de la Generalitat, where special activities or open days with free tours are usually organised. Read More…
