Have you decided to spend "Semana Santa" or the Easter holidays in Catalonia or are still thinking about it? Barcelona may be the best choice for the best Semana Santa of your life.
Here is some information about the traditions and attractions to be taken into account in order to make the most of the Catalan culture in relation to these dates and things you can do to enjoy the trip to its fullest, whether alone or with your family.
Tradition of palmas and palmones (Domingo de Ramos)
The blessing of palmas and palmones is one of the most deeply rooted traditions in Catalonia, used to recall the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.
According to tradition, godmothers give their goddaughter a palma and the boys a palmón. In the case of the girls, the palma should be as beautiful, elaborate and ornate as possible. On the contrary, in the case of children, we should give away the highest Palmón. At present they can be adorned with items like candy and small toys.
Subsequently, at a palmas and palmones blessing, it ends with hitting them on the floor. Before this, they used to hang the palmas on balconies until the arrival of the carnival on the following year.
Tradition of Mona Pascua (Lunes de Pascua)
This is one of the most important traditions of the Catalan Easter (Semana Santa) and it symbolises the end of Lent, and therefore the end of the abstinence period. Its name comes from the Arabic word "munna" which means "provision of the mouth" (provisión de la boca). This is a gift in the form of sweet foods that the Moriscos gave to their masters in order to celebrate Lent.
According to tradition, the volunteer must give the Domingo de Pascua godchild a "Mona", which may consist of cakes or dolls, which on Easter Monday will be eaten or unwrapped whilst surrounded by family. It is increasingly common to see "Monas" in bakeries made of chocolate and other great works of art with various designs.
Festes de Sant Josep Oriol
These festivities, also known as "Fiestas Mayores del Barrio de Pi", are held every year around March 23rd in the beautiful squares and streets that surround the Basilica of Santa Maria del Pi.
They are brief but very intense parties where you can enjoy a lot of different activities, popular culture and other attractions that are suitable for all audiences. Much of the acts are carried out by "Gigantes de Pi" gigantic figures representing Elisenda and Mustafa, a Christian lady and a nobleman. The giants that perform in the popular retinue of Barcelona are the hosts of these parties. They are known for their popular songs by all the children, and that is the basis of "Ball dels Gegants del Pi", a dance in which the story of a forbidden love between the couples is represented. A show worthy of admiration and great beauty that will leave an impact on anyone.
The festival is celebrated in honour of St. Joseph Oriol, who was noted for his dedication to the sick and the poor and was highly revered in the neighbourhood. The origin of the festival dates back to 1995, when merchants and local residents joined the "Asociación de Amigos de los Gigantes de Pi" to hold a series of events to remember this saintly figure.
Besides visiting the city, there are various museums and many alternatives that Barcelona can offer you. These festivals can be a key activity to experience the true Semana Santa in Catalonia.
Cod, a culinary star
Surely after all the celebrations and strolls through the city, you will want to whet your appetite and what better way than to taste one of the best dishes of Catalonia: "exqueixada of bacallà ", a typical dish made with pieces of raw cod, tomato, onion, peppers, olives and a dressing based on olive oil, vinegar and salt. A dish that you will never forget.
Accommodation
Finally, to make the most of your stay in a familiar and comfortable environment, and at the same time the exclusivity and quality of a great hotel, we recommend that you stay in the most valued Boutique Hotels in Barcelona, Hotel Primero Primera. It is located in Sarrià , one of the best neighbourhoods in the city. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, gym and library among many other services, which will make it a perfect complement to your holiday.
