“Castells”, a moving tradition
Declared cultural heritage of humanity by UNESCO, the “Castells” are one of those traditions that after centuries of history is still alive, being practiced with passion by the “castellers” and admired by everyone who is lucky to watch it.
Originally from Catalonia, the Castells (castles in Catalan) are human towers that you will see at festivals in the area or in competitions in which groups from different areas seek to break records by achieving towers that had not been carried out before. Men, women and children participate in the groups or “colles”, and they rehearse numerous times a year in preparation for the performances of the season.
These amazing castles require impeccable organization and communication on the part of their components, since everyone who is part of it is a fundamental pillar to keep it standing and, above all, to be safe. They are made of the “pinya“, where the base of strength is formed and also a kind of human cushion in case of falls, the trunk and the “pom de dalt”, which would be the upper part, where the “enxaneta” will rise to raise their hand signaling that the Castell has been successfully completed.
This show becomes even more exciting with the gralles and kettledrums playing, which always play the same piece: the “Toc de Castells”.
Typical of popular festivals, now that the Festa Major de Sitges is being celebrated is the perfect time to see these castles live. Are you going to miss it?
