Arde Lucus, the Roman festival in Lugo

Spanish festivities don't come much more authentic than this recreation of Roman life in Galicia / Creative Commons

22 May 2018, 12:12

Arde Lucus

When: 15th–17th June 2018
Where: Lugo, Spain
Website: ardelucus.com

Arde Lucus is one of the most traditional festivals in Spain that celebrates Lugo's Castro and Roman past. It is held in the middle of June, this year from 15th-17th, with the first festival being in 2001. Not long ago it was declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest and the number of participants that go increases every year.

Lugo, an unchanging, ancient city

Lugo is a city in north-western Spain in the Autonomous Community of Galicia and it has an impressive Roman legacy. Its thousand-year-old wall, which surrounds the historic centre of the city, is a World Heritage Site. It is about 10 metres (30 feet) high and has a perimeter of over 2,200 metres (7,200 feet). Its interior has large squares, landscaped areas and emblematic buildings such as the Town Hall, the Cathedral and the Archbishop's Palace.

The food in Lugo is also a massive highlight. In Galicia you can eat really well for cheap and Lugo is home to top restaurants serving fresh fish and tender meat. Lugo's cuisine is well-known within Spain and is something you can't miss.

Roman and Celtic activities in Arde Lucus, Lugo

The city of Lugo was known to the Romans as Lucus Augusti and this festival looks back to the past to pay homage to its origins. During the festival, people wear clothes inspired by Roman times, be they togas or Roman centurion outfits.

Over the course of the weekend, there are many Roman and Celtic style activities within the city walls. The town council, in collaboration with various associations, is responsible for organising them.

For example, military camps are set up, with residents dressing up in typical clothes and displaying ancient artefacts. Each of these Roman or Galician camps organises activities which are completely open to the public.

During the Arde Lucus festival, there is also the possibility to get married according to Celtic rites. Each year, couples must renew their vows (as long as they want to!), and after seven years, their union will be consolidated with a marriage certificate.

The “Macellum” is an artisan craft market with juggling shows, music and products from the past. At the same time, in the Rosalía de Castro Park, there is a Roman circus with Roman chariot races and gladiator fights.

The "Burning of the Wall", based on the recreation of a military operation the Romans used to conquer a city, also takes place in Rosalía Park. That's not all, though, and more fun events and activities take place, from Roman parades and games to concerts and costume competitions, in this truly authentic and action-packed festival in June 2018.