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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…)