Introduction
Every year, the vibrant city of Barcelona comes alive with the sounds, sights, and celebrations of La Mercè, its most significant festival. This event, dedicated to the patron saint of Barcelona, Mare de Déu de la Mercè, is not just a religious observance but a grand showcase of the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
La Mercè is a harmonious blend of age-old traditions and contemporary festivities, making it a unique experience for both locals and tourists. From the rhythmic beats of drums accompanying parades of giants and dragons to the mesmerizing dance of the castellers (human towers), the festival is a testament to Barcelona’s deep-rooted customs. Yet, it doesn’t stop there. The city streets also resonate with modern rhythms, contemporary art forms, and innovative performances, reflecting Barcelona’s ever-evolving cultural scene.
For those fortunate enough to be in Barcelona during La Mercè, the festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the city’s essence, witnessing firsthand its commitment to preserving the old while embracing the new.
While the festival has religious origins, dating back to the 17th century, today it stands as a symbol of Barcelona’s identity – a city that respects its past, celebrates its present, and looks forward to its future. Whether you’re drawn to the historical aspects of the festival or the modern-day celebrations, La Mercè promises a diverse and enriching experience.
For more information on the festival’s schedule and events, the official website of Barcelona Tourism provides a detailed guide and calendar (www.barcelonaturisme.com).
History and origin of La Mercè
The roots of La Mercè run deep into the history of Barcelona. Originally, this festival was a religious observance dedicated to the Mare de Déu de la Mercè (Our Lady of Mercy), the patron saint of Barcelona. The legend goes that on the night of September 24, 1218, the Virgin Mary appeared simultaneously to King Alfonso VIII of Castile, Saint Peter Nolasco, and Saint Raymond of Penyafort, instructing them to create an order of monks dedicated to saving Christians captured by the Moors.
However, it wasn’t until 1687 that La Mercè truly became significant for Barcelona. In that year, the city was suffering from a plague of locusts, and the people turned to the Virgin of La Mercè for protection. After the city was delivered from this plight, she was named the patron saint of Barcelona, and the city has celebrated her feast day ever since.
Over the centuries, what began as a religious observance has transformed into a grand cultural event. While the religious essence remains, with a procession and mass in honor of the Virgin, the festival has expanded to include a plethora of activities that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage and modern artistic expressions. From traditional correfocs (fire runs) and sardanas dances to contemporary music concerts and art installations, La Mercè has evolved to represent both the historical and modern facets of Barcelona.
Today, the festival stands as a testament to Barcelona’s ability to honor its traditions while embracing change and innovation. It’s a week-long celebration where the past and present coalesce, offering a unique experience that captures the essence of the city.
For a detailed timeline and more historical insights, the Museu d’Història de Barcelona (Barcelona History Museum) offers exhibits and resources that delve deeper into the city’s rich past (www.museuhistoria.bcn.cat).
Tradition… yet so modern
Barcelona’s La Mercè festival is a vibrant blend of age-old traditions and contemporary celebrations. While the city streets come alive with modern music and art, the heart of the festival remains rooted in its historic customs.
Gigantes and capgrossos: These are towering figures, often representing kings, queens, and other nobles, that parade through the streets. Made of papier-mâché and carried on the shoulders of their bearers, these giants dance to the rhythm of traditional music, delighting onlookers with their grandeur.
Dragones and bestias de fuego: A spectacle of fire and fantasy, these mythical creatures come to life during the festival. Accompanied by drum beats, they spew sparks and flames into the crowd, symbolizing the battle between good and evil. It’s a fiery dance that requires both courage and respect from participants and spectators.
Castellers: One of the most awe-inspiring sights at La Mercè is the building of human towers, or castells. Teams, known as colles, compete to construct the tallest and most complex towers. This tradition, which symbolizes unity and strength, has been recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Sardanas: This traditional Catalan dance is a symbol of unity and pride. Dancers join hands in a circle and move to the music played by a cobla (a Catalan wind band). The dance is an open invitation; anyone can join, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the festival and the city itself.
While these traditions form the backbone of La Mercè, they are presented with a modern twist, ensuring their relevance and appeal to both young and old. The fusion of the old with the new is what makes La Mercè a unique and unforgettable experience. For a detailed schedule and locations of these events, the official La Mercè website provides comprehensive information (www.lameva.barcelona.cat/lamerce/en/).
MAC festival and Acció Cultura Viva
Barcelona’s La Mercè festival, scheduled from September 22nd to 25th, is not just a celebration of tradition; it’s also a showcase of the city’s vibrant arts scene, both local and international. The festival’s multidisciplinary and diverse programming ensures that it caters to a wide range of tastes, making it appealing to all.
Mercè Arts de Carrer (MAC Festival): This festival within a festival brings the streets of Barcelona to life with performances from local and international artists. It’s a testament to the city’s commitment to supporting and promoting the arts, ensuring that they remain accessible to everyone.
7th Edition of Acció Cultura Viva: This year marks the seventh edition of Acció Cultura Viva, a collectively organized festival that focuses on projects deeply rooted in the city. The festival will be held over three days, from September 22nd to 24th, across three venues in Sant Andreu. With over six hundred proposals submitted, the selected programming promises to be diverse and engaging.
Acció Cultura Viva is more than just a festival; it’s a community event. It’s designed, organized, and produced collectively by the city’s musical and cultural fabric. This collaborative effort is supported by the Institute of Culture of Barcelona, the Directorate of Social and Solidarity Economy and Sustainable Food of the Barcelona City Council, and the Sant Andreu District.
This year, the festival is expanding its reach by relocating stages to various locations in Sant Andreu, including the main stage at Can Fabra square and the closing event at Nau Bostik. The Fabra i Coats venue will also play a pivotal role, hosting several events and workshops.
The festival’s artistic selection is predominantly centered on projects based in the city, showcasing a wide range of musical genres and styles. From intimate indie performances to experimental electronic sets, the festival promises to offer something for everyone. Highlights include performances by L’Beel, Masta Quba, KYNE, Coàgul, O’o, Coure, and many more.
In addition to the musical performances, there will be a range of activities, including screen printing workshops, sound toy workshops, and discussions on various topics. The festival will conclude with a day of celebration at Nau Bostik, featuring a diverse lineup of artists and genres, ensuring a fitting end to this cultural extravaganza.
For more details on the festival’s schedule and venues, you can visit the official Acció Cultura Viva website (www.accioCulturaViva.barcelona.cat).
Música Mercè: fiesta and diversity
Barcelona’s La Mercè festival is a true testament to the city’s rich tapestry of musical influences, blending both traditional and contemporary rhythms. This year, the festival’s musical segment, Música Mercè, stands out as a reflection of Barcelona’s cultural vitality and diversity, embracing different accents and rhythms that traverse the city.
Diverse musical landscape: Música Mercè is a celebration of fun and activism, danceable tunes and experimental sounds, renowned artists and emerging talents. The lineup boasts both local (from Barcelona, Catalonia, and Valencia) and international acts, spanning countries from Chile to Ukraine, Angola, Colombia, and beyond. For the first time, female artists dominate the program, with names like Selma Bruna, Meritxell Nedermann, and Lia Kali taking center stage.
Voices of advocacy from diverse origins: The festival is not just about entertainment; it’s also a platform for artists to voice their concerns and advocate for change. Ukrainian DJ, Daria Kolomiec, for instance, uses her sets to amplify the voice of Ukraine on the global stage, drawing attention to the ongoing struggles of its people. Similarly, Mexico’s Masta Quba champions feminist hip-hop, calling for societal change and women’s emancipation. From Australia, Divide and Dissolve brings a message of resistance, urging listeners to reflect on pressing societal issues.
Venues and highlights: The festival spreads its wings across various iconic locations in Barcelona. The Teatre Grec will host diverse acts, from the combative hip-hop of Ile to the contemporary folk of Tarta Relena. The Ciutadella park will feature a heterogeneous program, including the DJ set of Daria Kolomiec and the electro-pop of Liraz. The avenue of the Cathedral, on the other hand, will be home to special productions, including a tribute to Catalan rumba.
Acció Cultura Viva: This segment of the festival, held in Sant Andreu, is a collective celebration of music deeply rooted in the city. It’s a space for the city’s residents and artists to come together, supported by the Institute of Culture of Barcelona and other local entities. This year, the festival will feature a diverse range of musical genres, from urban rhythms to intimate pop, showcasing the city’s vibrant and eclectic musical scene.
For a detailed schedule and more information on the festival’s events, you can visit the official La Mercè website (www.laMerce.barcelona.cat).
La Mercè and new technologies
In the heart of Barcelona, the La Mercè festival seamlessly blends age-old traditions with the cutting-edge innovations of the modern world. This year, the festival takes a leap into the future, integrating the latest technological advancements to enhance the celebratory experience.
Drones light up the sky: At the Bogatell Beach (Espacio Mediterràniament), attendees will be treated to a mesmerizing display titled 30 anys de Vila Olímpica (“30 years of Vila Olímpica”). Drones will take to the skies, forming intricate patterns and figures, commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Vila Olímpica in a truly elevated manner.
Holographic dance: The Parque de la Estació del Nord will play host to a unique electronic experience by the French company Nokill Elektra. Imagine a DJ set accompanied not by human dancers, but by holograms! This innovative blend of 3D imagery, danceable tunes, and unexpected surprises promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Picasso’s Barcelona in augmented reality: The Plaza de la Mercè will be transformed into an immersive installation, allowing visitors to step back in time and walk in the shoes of a young Picasso. Designed by Squaremmkm, this experience will recreate the environment and home where Picasso first picked up a paintbrush, offering insights into his early life and influences.
Aerial geometry with drones: The Espigó del Gas, traditionally the stage for the International Pyrotechnic Festival of Barcelona, will this year witness Geometrics X200. This spectacle, created by Floke Drone Art, will feature two hundred drones performing a synchronized aerial dance, forming patterns up to a hundred meters wide, all set to a backdrop of music and sound effects.
For those passionate about the intersection of art, culture, and technology, this year’s La Mercè offers an itinerary that’s not to be missed. For a detailed schedule and more information, you can visit the official La Mercè website (www.laMerce.barcelona.cat).
Women of Barcelona: the power is yours
Barcelona’s La Mercè festival, renowned for its cultural richness, is a testament to the city’s vibrant musical heritage. This year, the spotlight shines brightly on the women who have shaped and continue to influence the city’s musical tapestry.
Barcelona’s musical matriarchs: The streets of Barcelona echo with melodies crafted by talented female artists, both past and present. These women have left an indelible mark on both the local and global music scene, proving that creativity knows no gender or geographical boundaries. From flamenco to pop, hip hop to opera, they have consistently challenged expectations, making significant contributions to Barcelona’s musical legacy.
During La Mercè 2023, attendees will be treated to performances by these trailblazing women, turning the city into a hub of artistic expression. Here are some must-see acts:
- Lia Kali (Jardines del Doctor Pla i Armengol, Sept 22, 23:45h): A voice that transcends genres, blending reggae, jazz, soul, and rap.
- Luna Ki (Moll de la Fusta, Sept 22, 1:30h): A futuristic vision that fuses styles with a fresh language, establishing her as a bold voice in the current scene.
- Suu (Playa del Bogatell, Sept 23, 20:30h): A leading composer and face of the new generation of Catalan pop-indie musicians, championing female empowerment.
- Mushkaa (Moll de la Fusta, Sept 23, 22:30h): At just nineteen, she’s a rising star in urban music, blending reggaeton, dancehall, trap, and R&B.
- Anier (Moll de la Fusta, Sept 23, 1:30h): A Barcelona rapper who’s taken the hip hop world by storm with her electrifying energy.
- Adelaida (Antiga Fàbrica Estrella Damm, Sept 24, 16:50h): A mesmerizing live performance that captivates from the first note.
- LaFrancesssa (Antiga Fàbrica Estrella Damm, Sept 24, 18:10h): A musical journey blending poetry, electronic and classical music, dance, and drama.
- Noia (Antiga Fàbrica Estrella Damm, Sept 25, 16:40h): A talented composer showcasing her latest album, guiding listeners through her deeply personal voice.
- CLARAGUILAR (Antiga Fàbrica Estrella Damm, Sept 25, 19:20h): A unique sonic experience, blending operatic elements with electronic music.
These performances are not just concerts; they’re a celebration of the women who’ve shaped Barcelona’s musical landscape. Their voices, both in song and in spirit, resonate with the power and passion of the city itself. Don’t miss the chance to experience this musical journey at La Mercè 2023. For more details, visit the official La Mercè website (www.laMerce.barcelona.cat).
The grand finale: El Piromusical
Barcelona’s La Mercè festival culminates in a breathtaking spectacle that seamlessly merges the diverse facets of the celebration, from its musical and theatrical elements to its traditional and innovative expressions. This grand finale, known as El Piromusical, is undoubtedly the most anticipated and communal event of the festival.
A symphony of light and sound: At the heart of this extravaganza are synchronized fireworks and music, casting a spellbinding glow over Montjuïc. Residents and visitors alike turn their gazes skyward, captivated by the intricate patterns and acrobatics of the fireworks. This year’s Piromusical promises an even more special auditory experience as Sónar, celebrating its 30th anniversary, curates the soundtrack. This collaboration encapsulates three decades of musical evolution in a mere 25 minutes, offering a fitting farewell to La Mercè 2023 while also paying homage to a monumental music festival that annually draws thousands of global visitors to Barcelona.
Masters of pyrotechnics: Tasked with lighting up Barcelona’s night sky is Pirotecnia Igual, a Catalan company with over a century of expertise in crafting and igniting spellbinding firework displays. Their illustrious legacy includes memorable moments like the Barcelona 1992 Olympics. With numerous international accolades to their name, Pirotecnia Igual is set to partner with Sónar to deliver an unforgettable Piromusical experience.
As the 25-minute spectacle unfolds, attendees are not just witnessing a display of lights and sounds but are also becoming a part of a tradition that resonates with Barcelona’s spirit of unity, creativity, and celebration.
For more details on La Mercè and its grand finale, visit the official website (www.laMerce.barcelona.cat).
La Mercè honors Víctor Jara
In the heart of Barcelona, on the evening of September 24th, the Avenida de la Catedral will resonate with the powerful melodies and poignant lyrics of an iconic figure in Latin American music: Víctor Jara. Fifty years after his tragic assassination by Pinochet’s dictatorship, La Mercè pays tribute to this Chilean singer-songwriter, a beacon of protest music during the tumultuous 60s and early 70s.
Jara’s music was not just a reflection of artistry but also a voice for the Chilean people’s demands and aspirations. His tragic end, tortured and killed by Chilean Armed Forces following Pinochet’s coup, only amplified his message and legacy.
The tribute concert, titled Mil voces de Víctor Jara, promises a harmonious blend of Chilean and Catalan voices. Spearheading the lineup is Anna Tijoux, a Chilean singer, songwriter, and rapper based in Barcelona, known for her evocative songs about truth, justice, and memory. Joining her is Javiera Mena, a queer pop icon residing in Madrid, Mc Millaray, a Mapuche rapper and activist, Rusó Sala, a Mediterranean-rooted singer-songwriter, and Sílvia Tomàs, a composer with Chilean roots who crafts songs about injustice, nature, humanity, and love.
This ensemble will be complemented by a specially curated band led by Borja Penalba and Marina Alcantud. The tribute will also feature the soulful melodies of Inti Illimani Histórico, a group intrinsically linked to Jara’s repertoire and spirit, representing the resilient voice of a generation that refused to be silenced by repression.
Mil voces para Víctor Jara is not just a musical event but a testament to the enduring bond between Catalonia and Chile. This collaboration, co-organized by the Generalitat de Catalunya and the Government of Chile, underscores the shared values of progress, freedom, and the collective memory of those who bravely stood against authoritarian regimes.
For those who cherish the power of music to inspire change and remember history, this evening promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
Barcelona, a city renowned for its architectural marvels, vibrant streets, and rich history, finds its very essence encapsulated in the annual celebration of La Mercè. This festival, deeply rooted in tradition, has evolved over the years to become a beacon of modernity and cultural diversity, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the Catalan capital.
For locals, La Mercè is more than just a festival; it’s a reaffirmation of Barcelona’s identity. It’s a time when the streets come alive with music, dance, and art, reminding Barcelonians of their shared history, values, and aspirations. From the rhythmic beats of traditional drums to the innovative displays of technology, the festival captures the city’s journey from its storied past to its promising future.
For visitors, La Mercè offers a unique window into the soul of Barcelona. It’s an opportunity to immerse oneself in the city’s cultural tapestry, to experience its traditions, and to witness its continuous evolution. The festival’s diverse events, ranging from honoring iconic figures like Víctor Jara to the mesmerizing Piromusical, ensure that every visitor finds something that resonates with them.
Moreover, the inclusivity of La Mercè, with its emphasis on both global and local talents, showcases Barcelona’s role as a global city, welcoming and celebrating differences. The festival’s ability to seamlessly blend tradition with contemporary elements, to honor its roots while embracing change, is a testament to Barcelona’s resilience and adaptability.
In conclusion, La Mercè is not just a festival but a celebration of what makes Barcelona unique. It’s a reminder of the city’s enduring spirit, its commitment to innovation, and its unwavering embrace of diversity. For anyone seeking to truly understand the heart and soul of Barcelona, experiencing La Mercè is an absolute must.
