What to Know about La Mercè

         

Welcome back to Maren's Abroadventures!

       This week, I will cover information regarding the upcoming La Mercè festival. There will be around 600 free events spread throughout the city beginning September 24th, so don't miss this very big annual festival in Barcelona. Since there are no classes on that Wednesday, make sure to explore the city and check out the different events offered. Even after the 24th, this festival continues daily until the 28th, so take this opportunity to see something you've never seen before, especially because the metro runs all night long during the festival.

Nuestra Señora de la Merced 24septiembre - Parròquia Remei

      The name "La Mercè" is actually named after the Virgin of La Mercè. It is said that on the night of the 24th of September, in 1218, the Virgin appeared simultaneously to King Jaume I, Saint Pere Nolasc, and Saint Ramón de Penyafort. Later in 1687, Barcelona suffered a plague of locusts and placed itself in the hands of the Virgin of La Mercè. Once the plague had been overcome, the Council of the City named her patron saint of Barcelona.

           Fiestas de la Merced - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre

        If you haven't already guessed it, the picture above is a visual of the Human Towers (Castellers). If this interests you, join the SAI team and me on the trip on Tuesday, the 23rd, to get a sneak peek at their final rehearsal before the event begins the following day. This will allow you to be more immersed in the culture and have a unique experience of how they prepare behind the scenes.


       The Correfoc (Fire Run), which began in 1976, is like nothing you've seen before. This street entertainment takes place at night and interacts with fire, devils, and even dragons. The "devils" carry around firework launchers and other things that burn, while walking a set route. It is said that onlookers may attempt to mess with them by chasing them and having to take shelter from their fire.

La Merce: Gigantes (Giants Parade) | La Merce: Gigantes (Gia… | Flickr

         The Giants (Gegants I Capgrossos), which were introduced to the festival in 1902, have also been gaining popularity for their uniqueness. These very large papier-maché figures are covered in cloth or clothing to fit the theme, and even dance in the streets for entertainment. 


          In my blog for next week, I will go over the itinerary with when and where you can find all of the events happening. The itinerary will include things such as street art, street processions, concerts, traditional dances, and more. I am personally very excited to see the giants in real life and see how tall they are. I will also include some recommendations from the SAI staff to help guide you, so make sure to stay on the lookout!

See you next week!



 

 


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