Sunday, September 23, 2012

The Human Towers

Castellers

Strolling along La Rambla and into Plaza Real Square, I was fortunate to witness a centuries-old Catalan tradition: Els Castells, or human towers. Originating in Tarragona in the 18th century, this spectacular display of human strength, balance, and teamwork continues to captivate audiences today.

The Castellers, or participants, form a human base by huddling together. On top of this sturdy foundation, they build a tower of people, one person standing on another's shoulders. The tower is typically topped by a child, known as an enxaneta. These daring climbers can form towers up to seven or eight people high, a truly impressive feat of human ingenuity.

In one of the image below, the little boy's determined expression as he begins to raise his hand signifies the successful completion of the human tower. This ancient tradition not only showcases the Catalans' impressive physical strength, agility, and balance but also their remarkable sense of community and teamwork.

Castellers

Castellers

Castellers

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