Sant Jordi
De meest romantische dag van Catalonië
The legend of Saint George and the dragon
The story of Saint George is deeply intertwined with Catalan identity. According to Catalan tradition, the famous legend did not take place in Silene, as is often thought, but in the town of Montblanc in the province of Tarragona. Montblanc was plagued by a dragon that not only destroyed everything in its path, but also spread a deadly poison. To appease the dragon, the inhabitants made sacrifices every day: first cattle, and when there were no more animals left, they had to sacrifice their own children.
One day, the lot fell on the king's daughter. She was brought to the dragon in her finest clothes. Just as the dragon threatened to devour her, Saint George appeared on a white horse. He was a brave knight who dedicated his life to protecting the weak. With his sword, he fought the dragon and killed it. From the dragon's blood grew a beautiful rose, which George gave to the princess.
Since then, Sant Jordi has not only been the patron saint of Catalonia, but also a symbol of courage, love and protection.
A day of roses and books
The legend lives on in a beautiful tradition: on April 23, men give a rose to the woman in their life, while the woman in turn gives a book to her husband. The origin of the books is due to World Book Day, which is also celebrated on April 23 in honor of the deaths of Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote, and William Shakespeare. In Barcelona and other Catalan cities, the streets of the city center are transformed into bustling marketplaces full of rose and book stalls.
Sant Jordi in Barcelona: what to do?
Although Sant Jordi is not an official holiday, the Catalans take the time to celebrate it. Here's what to do in Barcelona:
- Casa Batlló
Antoni Gaudí was inspired by the legend of Sant Jordi when designing this iconic building. On April 23, the façade is decorated with hundreds of red roses. The building with its roof, which resembles a dragon's tail, and the chimney that symbolizes the spear of Saint George, comes to life on this day. - Palau de la Generalitat and the City Hall
Normally closed to the public, the Catalan government palace and the city hall on Plaça Sant Jaume open their doors to the public on this day. Admire the Gothic courtyard with the statue of Sant Jordi and the dragon, enjoy organ concerts and buy blessed roses. An absolute must-see! - Book stalls and signing authors
In addition to the rose stalls, the streets of the city centre are dotted with book stalls with a huge selection of books. Many famous Catalan authors are present to sign their books, which gives an extra personal touch to this festive day. Many Catalans take advantage of this opportunity to discover new literature and take home a signed copy.
Catalan flavours for Sant Jordi
Sant Jordi is also a celebration for foodies. Try the typical Pa de Sant Jordi, a bread with the Catalan flag in red and yellow, made with sobrassada (a spreadable, spicy sausage) and cheese. Sant Jordi is all about roses, and this is also reflected in the sweets, such as chocolate in the shape of roses and cakes decorated with the Catalan flag or rose motifs.
Many restaurants offer a Sant Jordi menu on this day. These are often festive meals that honour the day with dishes that creatively play on the legend and symbolism. For example, desserts with rose essence or dishes inspired by the colour theme of red and yellow.
In addition to the themed food, many Catalans choose to enjoy traditional Catalan dishes such as Calçots, grilled spring onions with romesco sauce, and Crema Catalana (a type of crème brûlée) for dessert.
Why Sant Jordi is special
Sant Jordi is all about love, culture and tradition. It is a Catalan festival that connects generations and celebrates both romance and the love of books. Whether you stroll through the decorated streets of Barcelona, give a rose to or receive a book from your loved one, this day will stay with you.
So, if you ever find yourself in Catalonia on April 23, let yourself be carried away by the magic of Sant Jordi. It is a day where love is literally in the air, among the roses and the books. ❤️📚
