What to do on Saint George’s Day in Barcelona

DISCOVER THE LEGEND AT CASA BATLLÓ‘S FAÇADE

A day of celebration where roses and books become the main characters

In Catalonia, the feast of Saint George is a day that is commemorated with a great deal of zeal and happiness on the calendar. The streets of the cities and towns are filled with people and kiosks selling books and roses on April 23. This day is known as Book and Rose Day. It is a celebration of the patron saint of Catalonia, with the goal of carrying on a custom that is rooted in affection for one’s culture.

The Legend of Saint George

According to the urban legend, the citizens of Montblanc (modern-day Tarragona) were once terrified by a fierce dragon who could poison the air and kill with his breath. The terrified locals, sick of the dragon’s destruction and wrongdoing, came up with a plan to appease him: they would feed him one person every day, selected at random. The princess ended up being the unlucky one after a few days had passed. After leaving her castle to confront the dragon, the princess was saved by a man dressed as Saint George and riding a white horse.

Saint George took a swing at the dragon, killing it and ending the ordeal for the princess and the townspeople. A rose shrub with the deepest red blooms imaginable bloomed from the dragon’s blood. Now that he’s a hero, Saint George went to pick a rose for the princess.

Where is Saint George celebrated?

Some other European countries, including England, Greece, and Portugal, also celebrate the story of Saint George. Las Ramblas, Paseo de Gracia, and Rambla Catalua are among of Barcelona’s most famous streets due to their high foot traffic and abundance of flower and book vendors. The air is ethereal, and this is a perfect time for aimless contemplation and joy. Cultural events such as photography contests, readings, and concerts, as well as other events such as sardanas, exhibitions, and Open Doors Days of iconic buildings, “castells” (human towers), and more may be found in different districts of Barcelona.

The Montblanc community’s festivities are well-known throughout Catalonia. Theater and music fill the streets during “Montblanc Medieval Week” in an effort to bring the tale back to life. Saint George’s Portal is a part of the old city where legend has it the knight exited after defeating the monster.

World Book Day

In addition, Unesco designated April 23 as World Book Day in 1995. Therefore, one of the most deeply ingrained customs in Catalan culture is the exchange of books rather than flowers on this day. Getting the newest literary releases, rare copies, or a dedication and autograph from your favorite author has become a time-honored custom.

Saint George’s Roses

The significance of this day mostly rests on the custom of sending roses. Anyone can make such a gift, albeit custom says the guy should present the lady with a rose. Legend has it that Saint George rescued the princess by slaying the dragon whose blood blossomed into a beautiful rose. Because Saint George is widely held to be Catalonia’s patron saint of loves, some refer to this day as the Catalan equivalent of Valentine’s Day.