Las Fallas de Valencia are very large festivals where more than 7000 gigantic sculptures, each more extravagant than the last, are paraded. They offer a breathtaking spectacle for thousands of spectators.
During this festival, many activities, parades, exhibitions, shows and concerts accompany the event. A craze such as it is worth a classification, since 2016, in the Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Better understand the party
Every March 19th, more precisely on the day of Saint Joseph, more than 7000 Fallas are set on fire, releasing a fire that purifies the city. Before the fire sets the Fallas ablaze, a great and laborious work is carried out beforehand with a human participation that braves the generations of age and involves the city. An authentic transfer of talents intertwine to offer a grandiose show that translates into the form of Fallas but not only.
A colorful celebration
The origins of the Fallas
Although the latter remain uncertain, works dating from the medieval period suggest that before the arrival of the spring season, a fire was lit thanks to old wooden furniture that had served its purpose.
Another story tells that this cult celebrates the brotherhood of carpenters for the feasts of St. Joseph.
But it was more than 150 years ago that the first Fallas, as we know them today, were born.
Festivals and sculptures
It is in the streets of Valencia that sculptures of gigantic size, with exaggerated forms and dressed in wax and fabrics are exhibited in front of a crowd in admiration.
Las Fallas has not ceased to evolve over time, letting its builders show their imagination and daring.
The facts of current events give him a satirical spirit that emerges through these sculptures. Something to shift reality with a touch of humor.
How and what are Las Fallas made of?
The structure of Las Fallas is very complex because it is covered with cardboard, wood, fabric and many other new materials that makes it extravagant. Indeed, the essence of the Fallas lies in the satirical spirit of individuals. It is a real theatrical craze that is being staged.
As for the creation of Falla, it requires a lot of effort and teamwork. Neighbors and other members of different neighborhoods, commonly called failleros, collaborate in the preparation of the festivities.
It is a real cultural and social activity that takes place throughout the year, uniting neighbors, neighborhoods and cities. A tradition that has lasted for many years.
The work by team and meticulously coordinated and distributed, moreover different age groups are mixed in order to offer a carnival of the most spectacular.
On the other hand, it is important to know that all Fallas have a book. It is a kind of specific explanatory guide, commenting, in Valencian, on the theme of the sculpture. A tradition that introduces us to the Valencian Spanish culture.
Las Fallas and the Fallero Museum of Valencia
Much more than a party, it is by popular vote that a sculpture is elected to be saved from the flames. It will be part of the very select circle of Fallas that reflect history and cross time. The Fallas reside in the Fallero Museum in Valencia. A traditional place that honors the past.
How many trades are involved in the show?
The crafts are widely honored during the preparation of this event.
Architects, designers, painters, decorators and many others put their skills at the service of this event. A real transfer of know-how!
Traditional costumes also accompany the celebration of Fallas : goldsmiths, hairdressers, silk specialists are also part of the party!
Techniques and know-how :
In order to preserve the techniques of yesteryear, some artists do not hesitate to use these old techniques and offer a spectacular quality of work. This is especially the case with the techniques of silk spinning for the outfits of the period offering a parade typically in the Valencian tradition.
Don’t be surprised, but it makes a lot of noise
It can be scary at first but it is part of the charm of the festivities. Firecrackers and fireworks assail the beautiful streets of Valencia for a party immersed in a haze of smoke.
Valencian musicians also play traditional music of the time for a cultural journey. It is with authentic instruments, from the city of Valencia, that ancestral sounds are played.
Las Fallas de Valencia, a festival candidate for the UNESCO heritage
Supported by numerous public institutions, including the City Council of Valencia and the Central Committee of Fallas, this famous festival has also been declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest. Currently, the festival wishes to ” join the representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
We wish him good luck !
For the record!
The building materials of the sculptures are combustible and were once made of wax (ninots in Spanish). Over the years, the materials have evolved and are made of white cork in order to create even more voluminous, light and combustible sculptures. Because at the end of the festivities, these will be brought to disappear under a blazing fire.
Don’t hesitate to come to Valencia for an extravagant party. A program of cultural activities will allow you to discover the city and its culture.
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