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Saint George's Day at Casa Batlló
COME LIVE A DAY OF LEGEND, ROSES AND BOOKS
From April 21st to 23rd
the façade of Casa Batlló is dressed in roses
What to do on Saint George's Day in Barcelona
DISCOVER THE LEGEND AT CASA BATLLÓ'S FAÇADE
SAINT GEORGE’S SWORD
The Cross of four arms
DRAGON
Scale-shaped tiles
DRAGON'S RIBCAGE
Arcade room Catenaries
THE PRINCESS'S BALCONY
Flower shaped
SKULLS
Balconies featuring the remains of the dragon's victims
DRAGON’S TAIL
Lobby entrance to the house of Mr & Mrs. Batlló
BONES
Pillars that resemble the remains of the dragon's victims
A day of celebration where roses and books become the stars
The festival of Sant Jordi is a day celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy in Catalonia. On April 23, the streets of cities and towns are crowded with people and stalls selling books and roses. It is about celebrating the feast of the patron saint of Catalonia and remembering this tradition based on love and culture.
The Legend of Sant Jordi
In Montblanc (southern Catalonia), a dragon terrorized the citizens, demanding the daily sacrifice of a person chosen by lot. Misfortune fell upon the princess, but at that moment, Sant Jordi, a brave knight, saved her by defeating the dragon. From the ground where the dragon's blood fell, a rosebush with red roses grew. Sant Jordi, triumphant, plucked a rose and offered it to the princess.
Where is Sant Jordi Celebrated?
The legend of Sant Jordi transforms Barcelona and the rest of the cities in Catalonia into vibrant places, filled with stalls of roses and books, and various cultural activities such as sardanas, exhibitions, and contests. Moreover, during the "Medieval Week of Montblanc," the town comes alive with theatrical and musical acts that commemorate the legend, including the emblematic "Portal de Sant Jordi," where it is said that Sant Jordi emerged after defeating the dragon.
World Book Day
Additionally, April 23rd is World Book Day, promoted by UNESCO in 1995. That's why on this day, besides exchanging roses, giving books is the way to commemorate one of the most deeply rooted traditions in Catalan culture. It has become a classic to get the latest literary releases, special editions, or your favorite author's signature and dedication.
The Roses of Sant Jordi
Giving roses is the most significant part of this festivity. Anyone can make this offering, though tradition dictates that it is the man who should give a rose to his beloved. According to the legend, Sant Jordi saved his princess by killing the dragon, from whose blood a rosebush sprouted. That's why some consider it the Catalan Valentine's Day, because Sant Jordi is said to be, par excellence, the patron saint of lovers in Catalonia.