Falles: A Cultural Heritage

Falles: A Cultural Heritage

Falles is a traditional celebration in Valencia, Spain that dates back to the 18th century. This festival is held in honor of Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. The main feature of Falles is the creation and burning of intricate sculptures called «falles». These sculptures are made of wood, paper-mâché, and other combustible materials, and they often depict satirical scenes and caricatures of politicians and celebrities.

History of Falles

The origins of Falles can be traced back to pagan rituals celebrating the arrival of spring. Over time, these rituals evolved into a Christian festival dedicated to Saint Joseph. The tradition of creating and burning falles began in the 18th century, when carpenters would burn old wooden planks and scraps to celebrate the feast day of their patron saint. Eventually, this practice evolved into the elaborate and artistic displays that we see today.

Celebrating Falles

The Falles festival takes place from March 15th to March 19th, with each day filled with parades, fireworks, music, and dancing. The highlight of the festival is the daily «Mascletà» — a loud and rhythmic fireworks display that takes place in the town square. The culmination of Falles is the «Nit del Foc» or Night of Fire on March 19th, when all the falles are set ablaze in a spectacular display of light and heat.

Preserving Falles as Cultural Heritage

In 2016, Falles was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This designation was a testament to the importance of Falles in preserving and promoting traditional arts and crafts, as well as fostering community spirit and cultural identity. The Falles festival continues to attract visitors from around the world, who come to marvel at the elaborate falles and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Valencia.