St George's Day in Spain (Día de San Jorge or Diada de Sant Jordi)

History and Significance:

• St George's Day, celebrated on April 23rd, honors St George (Sant Jordi in Catalan), the patron saint of several regions in Spain, including Catalonia and Aragon.
• The day commemorates the legend of St George slaying a dragon to save a princess. The blood that spilled from the dragon supposedly turned into a rose bush from which George plucked a rose for the princess.

Traditions:

• Catalonia: The day is also known as "El Dia dels Enamorats" (Lovers' Day) and is akin to Valentine's Day.

  • Men give women roses, symbolizing the rose from the legend.
  • In return, women give men a book, following the UNESCO declaration of April 23rd as World Book Day to honor authors like Miguel de Cervantes and William Shakespeare who both died on this date.
  • Streets are filled with book and flower stalls; Barcelona's Las Ramblas becomes a cultural hub.

• Aragon: In Aragon, where St George is also a patron saint, it coincides with "El Día de Aragón," which marks the region's identity.

Activities:

• People participate in parades and cultural events celebrating Catalan culture and literature.
• Couples exchange gifts – roses and books – celebrating both love and literacy.
• Public readings of famous literary works take place, including those of Miguel de Cervantes’ "Don Quixote."
• Various ceremonies may include reenactments of the legend of St George.

The day is an important cultural event that reinforces local traditions while promoting reading and romanticism.