One of Spain's most romantic festivals takes place in Barcelona on 23 April. This special day honours Catalonia's patron saint, Sant Jordi, known to many as Saint George. It also coincides with World Book Day. "Diada de Sant Jordi" is often considered the region's equivalent of St Valentine’s Day.
Why do they celebrate St. George's Day in Barcelona?
The day honours the same Saint George recognised in the UK and other countries, revered as an international figure symbolising Christian chivalry. The celebration is rooted in a blend of historical and cultural traditions from different periods. St. George gained fame as a martyr for his refusal to target Christians during the persecution of 303 AD. His legacy spread widely during the Middle Ages, and he was declared the patron saint of Catalonia in 1456.
An age-old medieval custom in Catalonia involved visiting the Chapel of Sant Jordi in the Palacio de la Generalitat, where a rose fair, or 'lovers fair,' was held. This tradition helped Saint George earn his title as the patron saint of lovers in Catalonia.
Today, the festival ties together the custom of the rose fair with the narrative of bravery from the legend of St. George, adding a touch of romance and local pride to the festivities in Barcelona.
What is the legend of St. George?
The legend goes that there was a town once terrorised by a fearsome dragon that demanded a daily tribute of livestock and, eventually, human sacrifices. When the king's daughter was chosen as the next victim, the brave knight Saint George appeared and fought the dragon. He slew the beast with a single blow from his lance, and where the dragon's blood spilled, a beautiful rosebush bloomed. Saint George plucked a rose and gave it to the princess, symbolising the triumph of bravery and love over fear and tyranny.
What exactly happens on 23rd April in Barcelona?
The city’s streets are filled with stalls, or paradetas, selling books and roses, transforming Barcelona into an enormous outdoor bookshop-cum-florist. Literary events such as workshops, readings, and book signings of the latest publications by well-known authors take place across the city. Cultural performances like sardanas – traditional dances – and the famous castells, a UNESCO-recognised Catalan tradition of skilfully building tall ‘towers’ of people.
Traditionally, couples exchange gifts on Saint George's Day, with books for the men and roses symbolising love for the women. More recently, some are rewriting the legend to better reflect the values of modern society. The day is slowly evolving into an occasion to celebrate love and culture in a way that transcends gender.
Is St. George's Day a holiday in Spain?
St. George's, or Sant Jordi Day, is not a public holiday across Spain, but it's a big deal in Catalonia, especially in Barcelona. Even though businesses and schools stay open, locals still get involved in all the traditions and festivities. It's also popular with tourists who visit Barcelona during the festival to experience one of the city's most highly anticipated and unique events.
