Discover the legend of Saint Jordi and the activities that will take place in Calella to commemorate it
Every April 23rd, Catalonia is filled with colours, books, and roses to celebrate one of the most important festivities for Catalans: Sant Jordi Day.. On this special day, Catalan towns and cities are adorned with flags, red roses, and book stalls that invite everyone to stroll around and discover the charm of Catalan culture and its traditions. The city of Calella joins this celebration with enthusiasm every year, and below you’ll find all the information you need to experience Sant Jordi with us at the Hotel Bernat II.
The Legend of Saint George (Sant Jordi):
A long time ago, in a small village hidden among the mountains, a giant dragon appeared, filling the air with fear. Its figure was imposing, and the terrified inhabitants watched as its shadow stretched across the entire village. Every day, the dragon demanded animals to satisfy its hunger, and soon the village was left without any. Desperate, the dragon began to demand human sacrifices.
The frightened villagers decided to hold a lottery to determine who would be the next victim, and bad luck chose the princess of the kingdom, a young woman of great beauty, loved by all. With sorrow, the villagers took the princess before the beast to sacrifice her, preparing for the great tragedy.
But that day, a knight named Saint Jordi arrived in the village. When he learned of the situation, he did not hesitate for a second. With bravery, he mounted his horse and, armed with his lance, faced the dragon in a battle as fierce as it was unexpected. The dragon fought with all its might, but Saint Jordi, determined, thrust his lance into its heart and defeated the beast. The village erupted in cheers of joy, and the princess was freed from her fear.
From the dragon’s blood, a red rose was born, as beautiful as Saint Jordi’s victory, which he picked and gave to the princess as a symbol of his courage and love. This gesture of bravery and love remained engraved in the hearts of all the inhabitants, who celebrated the day in memory of that great knight.
The legend has been passed down from generation to generation, and every April 23rd, Saint Jordi’s Day, men give a rose as a symbol of love, while women give a book as a sign of culture and knowledge. This tradition endures in Catalonia as a testament to a love and bravery that we will never forget.
This year, the city of Calella has prepared a day full of cultural and familiar activities for all of them that will emerge in this new tradition.
Sant Jordi Day programme (23 April):
In Calella’s old town, Town Hall Square and Church Square
Morning:
9.00 am to 8.00 pm – Book and rose stalls. . Local authors will be on hand to sign copies and chat with visitors, making this a truly intimate and authentic experience.
At 12:00 – Reading aloud of texts by local authors on the stage in the Town Hall Square.
From 11:00 to 12:00 – Special broadcast “Sant Jordi a la FM i +” on Ràdio Calella TV (107.9 FM), on the stage in the Church Square
Afternoon:
From 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm – Clay rose modelling workshop in the Town Hall Square.
At 5.00 pm – Story time: “Sant Jordi and the Lazy Dragon” by Silvia Serra, on the stage in the Town Hall Square.
At 5.30 pm – Performance of the Tale of the Giants of Calella by the Colla Gegantera de Calella on the stage in the Church Square
From 7.00 pm to 8.00 pm – Closing concert with Clara, Judit and Albert in the Church Square
Discover the tradition of Sant Jordi from Hotel Bernat II
If you’re thinking of escaping to the Catalan coast for a few days, experiencing Sant Jordi in Calella can be a special, unique way to connect with the local culture. From Hotel Bernat II, located close to the town center, you can enjoy all the planned events without worrying about transportation.
Moreover, the atmosphere in the city during this time invites you to stroll, discover charming corners, and immerse yourself in a tradition that goes beyond flowers and books.
If you want to live Sant Jordi in Calella, you can book your room at Hotel Bernat II and enjoy one of the most important Catalan traditions by our side.
We look forward to sharing culture, emotion, and unique moments with you. Happy Sant Jordi!
