Rites of Spring
March 12, 2008
March in Valencia is synonymous with Las Fallas. Harkening back to pagan rituals welcoming the return of spring, the five-day festivities of Las Fallas culminate on March 19 (the Day of St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters). At the stroke of midnight on that day, the 350 or so hand-constructed figures, having been earlier stuffed with fireworks, are set afire. The huge figures–called ninots in Valenciano–are made of wood, cardboard, wax and painted plaster, often reaching heights of several stories. Six months or more is spent constructing each figure. Only one ninot, chosen by popular vote, escapes the ritual burning, and finds safety in the Museum of the Ninot in Valencia.
See this article for an insider’s description of Las Fallas.
Posted by Jane Gregg 0 Comments
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