44/50.- Barcelona, Festes de la Mercè, castellers

The festivals of Barcelona last several days. The first celebrations take place some days before September 23rd, and the last ones take place during the following weekend.

The festivals are dedicated to the patron Saint of Barcelona: 'la Mare de Deu de la Merce' -- a Madonna. All kind of acts take place during the festivals: classical Theater plays, folklore shows, rock concerts, techno raves ... You name it.

In the photo you can see one of the most traditional "sports" in Catalonia: the 'Castellers'. The construction of these human towers began in the South of Catalonia (close to Tarragona). Currently they are very popular throughout the country. In the picture you can see one of the highest 'castells' (=castle) ever achieved by the local 'colla' (=team). This "tower" is called the 3 of 9, which means the tower is nine levels high with three persons in each level. If you click on the photo you will see what happens when something goes wrong.

Let's see other traditional shows ...

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