Day Of Catalonia
Day of Catalonia is a one-day festival that occurs in Catalonia, an autonomous community of Spain. It’s a holiday celebrated annually on the 11th of September. This holiday commemorates the fall of Barcelona during the 1714 War of the Spanish Succession—an event that resulted in the loss of Catalan laws and institutions.
Spain (Local holiday)It’s a holiday celebrated in Catalonia in various ways: people offer floral offerings to the monument of Rafael Casanova (a commander of the Catalan army during the siege), they enjoy nationalist events and political parties, and they also savor fine Catalonian food and wine on this day.
The History of Day of Catalonia
During the mid-17th century, Catalonia was under the protection of France and was its own republic. When Charles II of Spain died in 1700, this started the War of the Spanish Succession. During this war, European nations banded together to try to stop Spain and France from merging under Philip Anjou—the person chosen by King Charles as his successor.
A 14-month siege was waged against Barcelona. This siege lasted until September 11th, 1714, when the army of King Philip of Spain defeated the Catalan troops that had been supporting the Habsburg dynasty’s claim to the Spanish throne.
This loss was a catastrophe for Catalonia, which perceived it as a loss of personal liberty and freedom when they were incorporated into Spain. Although this holiday commemorates a loss, many Catalonians don’t see it that way. They see it as a day for Catalonians to resist oppression and to secure the liberties they had lost.
First celebrated at the end of the 1800s, this holiday was celebrated for many years before it became an official holiday in 1980. This followed the restoration of Catalonia’s status as an autonomous government on December 31, 1979.
Observing Day of Catalonia
This public holiday is celebrated with wreath-laying ceremonies, political gatherings, and nationalistic events. It’s also a day when the people of Catalonia enjoy a day off and spend time with friends and family members.
Spain (Local holiday)
