LES CASTELLERS

"Força, Equilibri, Valor i Seny", in French: "Strength, balance, courage and wisdom", this is the motto of these men who build human towers with harmonious geometry. The Castellers, from the Catalan word "castell" (castle), are human tower builders with complex structures and different heights (some can reach the equivalent of a 5-storey building) that follow a precise code. Listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 16 November 2010, this tradition, which is certainly the most meaningful in Catalan culture, dates back to the 15th century. It is a breathtaking participatory show combining strength, agility and flexibility that most often takes place in a public square. Beyond a simple festive event, it is a philosophy of life, a demonstration of cooperation, teamwork, solidarity, self-sacrifice, concentration, courage, physical and mental strength where men, women and children, whatever their age, social origin and physical characteristics are essential to the building's elevation, each one having to trust the other before being in turn a pillar.