Sardana is a folk dance performed by a group of people who form a circle holding hands. In the Middle Ages, it was reportedly banned as a form of pagan witchcraft. Now it's extremely popular during Catalonia's major holidays, like La Merce or Diada de Catalunya.
Practical info
Where can one observe a Sardana performance in Barcelona?
In the political square, Plaça Sant Jaume, which is a famous location for hosting noteworthy cultural events, Sardana performances are held. Another location for Sardana performances is the Montserrat Monastery, which is approximately an hour away from Barcelona. Show more
What is the ideal time to watch a Sardana performance in Barcelona?
Sardana performances take place during important Catalan and Spanish festivals, mainly in September, like La Mercè and Diada de Catalunya. Around these festivals, the best days to watch Sardana performances would be. During summer months from May to mid-September, a weekly Sardana session is held on Saturdays, from 6 pm to 9 pm, at Plaça Sant Jaume. Show more
What is the history of Sardana, and what caused it to be banned earlier?
Sardana is a circle dance that originated in Catalonia. During the Franco regime, the dictator banned all forms of Catalan identity, including the language and related traditions. Sardana was considered subversive and nationalist, which resulted in prohibiting public performances of the dance. Since Franco's death, Sardana has come to represent Catalan cultural identity and is an essential element of regional heritage. Show more
For joining the Sardana dance, are there any specific clothing requirements?
Wear a white shirt, a black waistcoat adorned with pom-poms, a flat cap, white trousers, and espadrilles in the traditional Sardana dress. A big red pompom rests on the back of the waistcoat. However, the attire is not mandatory. The primary requirement is to have comfortable footwear due to the dance requiring touching feet with other participants in the circle. People usually dress casually. Show more
How can tourists participate & learn Sardana dance as part of their itinerary in Barcelona?
Several locals in Barcelona conduct Sardana dance workshops for tourists. The Catalonia government's tourist office, based in Barcelona, offers information about traditional Catalan dance performances and events. On Saturdays at 7 pm to 8 pm, Torre dels Lleons has a summer program that includes Sardana dancing, near La Rambla. Visitors can also participate in a cultural walking tour of Barcelona that concludes with Sardana participation. Show more
