In the heart of Catalonia, a breathtaking tradition unfolds during local festivals, where people gather to witness a unique and powerful symbol of unity and skill: the Castells, or human towers. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, this Catalan tradition transcends simple acrobatics, becoming an expression of teamwork, strength, and deep-rooted cultural pride.
The Origins of Castells: From Dance to Tower
The tradition of building human towers, Castells, originated in the small town of Valls near Tarragona in the 18th century, emerging from a local dance called the Ball dels Valencians. As the years passed, what began as a form of dance shifted its focus toward constructing ever taller and more complex human structures. By the 19th century, the Castells had become a defining feature of Catalan festivals. Over time, this tradition spread throughout Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, and even parts of Valencia.
However, it wasn’t until the late 20th century that the practice truly blossomed. The inclusion of women in the 1980s ushered in a second “golden age” of Castells, leading to towers that reached unprecedented heights—nine and ten levels, where before such feats were unimaginable.
How a Castell is Built: From the Pinya to the Enxaneta
The construction of a Castell is a marvel of coordination and teamwork. The base, known as the pinya, is the foundation of the tower, made up of a large group of people. Their job is to provide stability to the tower and serve as a protective cushion in case of a collapse. Higher up in the structure, smaller and more agile castellers climb on the shoulders of those below them, creating successive levels, each with one to five people.
The tower is complete when the enxaneta, a small child, reaches the top and raises one hand in a gesture of victory. Once the enxaneta has signaled, the team begins the delicate task of dismantling the tower—a process as dangerous and precise as the construction itself. Success isn’t just about building; it’s about doing so safely from start to finish.
Castells can also be built using different techniques, such as aixecat per sota (“raised from below”), where the tower is built in reverse—starting with the top levels and hoisted upwards as each new layer is added beneath.
The Symbolism Behind Castells: Unity and Strength
More than a physical feat, Castells are a powerful metaphor for the Catalan spirit. The motto of the Castellers, “Força, equilibri, valor, i seny”—strength, balance, courage, and common sense—speaks to the qualities needed to build the tower, but it also reflects values cherished by the Catalan community.
Each level of the tower depends on the strength of the one below, making teamwork and trust essential. Participants range from seasoned adults to small children, known as canalla, who bravely ascend the uppermost levels. The entire community gets involved, as anyone can help form the pinya, even if they are not experienced castellers. This inclusivity reinforces the idea that everyone plays a role in the success of the tower.
The sash, or faixa, worn by each casteller is another symbol of solidarity. Used as a foothold or handhold by those climbing, the faixa also serves to protect the lower back, while its traditional significance links the wearer to centuries of cultural heritage.
Castells Today: A Living Tradition
Today, over 100 colles castelleres (teams) across Catalonia keep the tradition alive. Teams such as the Castellers de Vilafranca and Minyons de Terrassa have pushed the limits of human endurance, achieving towering structures such as the 4 de 10—ten levels of four people each.
Castells are performed at festivals year-round, often accompanied by live music and the rhythmic beat of the Toc de Castells that signals the start of each attempt. This ancient tradition even found a place on the world stage during the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, showcasing Catalonia’s rich cultural identity to a global audience.
The Future of Castells: Tradition Meets Innovation
While Castells are steeped in history, the tradition continues to evolve. Advances in safety, such as the introduction of helmets for children following a tragic fall in 2006, ensure that the tradition remains safe for participants, particularly the youngest. Innovation in tower design and the breaking of old records keep Castells relevant and exciting for new generations.
The enduring appeal of Castellers lies in its balance of tradition and modernity, and in its ability to bring communities together in a celebration of human resilience and collaboration. It is a testament to the enduring power of collective effort, where every hand and every step counts in reaching the top.