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The Yule log

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Posted on 2018-12-21 in
Fuego en el hogar

Fire in the hearth.

The celebration of solstices dates back to ancient times, and there are good reasons to think some of the practices and beliefs observed in this land might have roots in certain solstice rituals, as might be the case with an old Christmas tradition now almost extinguished and to which this note is devoted to. (more…)

The animated Nativity scene at Our Lady of the Kings in Laguardia (Álava)

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Posted on 2017-12-22 in

Children entertained by the performance of the Nativity of Jesus. Laguardia (Álava), 1994. José Ángel Chasco.

The first representation of the birth of Jesus is attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi in the year 1223. During the 14th century the practice became widespread across the south of Italy. In the 18th century Charles III made the Nativity tradition popular in Spain and Spanish territories. (more…)

The Adoration of the Shepherds in Labastida (Álava)

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Posted on 2016-12-23 in
2-1

Adoration of the Shepherds. Labastida, 1993. José Ángel Chasco.

In this city of the Rioja Alavesa region, the traditional Dance of the Shepherds, originally held at Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, is nowadays represented at seven in the afternoon on 24 and 25 December.

The story unfolds at two different venues: the church of the Assumption of Our Lady and La Paz Square in front of the city hall. A living nativity scene is staged. As a child angel announces attendees the birth of Baby Jesus in Bethlehem, the shepherds sing Christmas carols and dance while inviting the members of the council to enter the temple and worship the newborn. (more…)

On the figure of Olentzero

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Posted on 2016-01-01 in
11.Olentzero Lesakan

Olentzero. Lesaka (Navarre), 2013.

Olentzero is a traditional Christmas character in the Southern Basque Country. The charcoal burner dresses nowadays in traditional country attire and brings presents to children on the night of Christmas Eve. The relatively modern Olentzero tradition we know has spread over practically the whole of the Basque territory, including areas where the Basque language is not spoken. The ritual originated in Gipuzkoa, in the environs of Zarautz, and reached the mountains of Navarre. In the area of Lesaka the legend is deeply rooted, and the locals have from time immemorial celebrated Olentzero’s way down the mountains where he makes charcoal. (more…)

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