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Bestiari Historic de Barcelona

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Bestiari Historic de Barcelona
Bestiari Historic de Barcelona. The 'Bestiari Historic de Barcelona' (bestiary of Barcelona) is a collection of stories or legends based on real and imaginary animal figures and an important part of Barcelona and Catalunya cultural tradition. Papier-mâché figures of these creatures are the stars of processions at Barcelona festivals especially during big events like the Santa Eulalia and la Mercè Festival. Each animal has a legend and store created over time linked to biblical scenes and the lives of Saints.

The dragons and the imaginary animal 'la tarasca' represent the devil. The ox and the mule are part of the birth of Christ. The lion and the eagle represent Saint Mark and Saint John and the mules are linked to Saint Anthony. In Catalunya these figures can be documented as far back as the 6th century.

The Beasts of Barcelona are:

L’Àliga – the eagle
El Lleó – the lion
La Mulassa – the mule
El Bou – the ox
La Víbria - the female dragon
El Drac – the dragon
La Tarasca – imaginary figure
Els Cavallets Cotoners – the cotton horses

Since 1439 there has been a special place where the city council has stored the beasts of Barcelona called “La Casa dels Entremesos.” The present day Casa dels Entremesos is one of the two houses that form Palau Mercader on “Plaça de les Beates” and this is also the headquarters of coordinating committee of the “CCGBCV - Coordinadora de Colles de Gegants i Bestiari de Ciutat Vella.”

Pictures Bestiari Historic de Barcelona
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Monday, 30 December 2024


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