Human Towers Competition
Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
September 2018
Declared Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2010, Catalonia’s human towers – or “castells”- are one of the country’s most unique customs.
The tradition first documented in the 17th century sees large groups – known as “colles” – forming tiers of differing numbers of people standing on the shoulders of those below them.
A human tower is only complete once a child called the “enxaneta,” who can be as young as five, clambers to the very top of the structure and raises their arm.
The towers are a common – and breathtaking – sight in town squares all over the country, where they are built during local festivals to the sound of traditional “gralla” flutes and drums.
Another example of the unique activities we partake in during Epicurean Exchange’s Culinary Tours! We are looking forward to returning in September 2021!
Learn More: Human Towers Competition
