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WHERE: Castrillo de Murcia, Spain
WHEN: 02 June 2024
If, by chance, you find yourself in a remote village in Spain, in the presence of a grotesque masked character, with colorful clothes, intent on jumping on top of children (!!)… don’t worry. You are certainly not going crazy!
Most likely you will find yourself in Castrillo de Murcia to witness the traditional El Colacho; it is an event that has been taking place continuously since 1621. Some people also know it under the name of Baby Jumping Festival. A name that says it all!
El Colacho, in reality, is none other than the Devil, represented here by a character in yellow and red clothes with a mask. Probably, the origin of the tradition is to guarantee children protection against disease and evil spirits and to offer a safe passage to life.
The Catholic Church, especially in recent years, has distanced itself from the ceremony, emphasizing that only baptism can purify the soul from original sin.
If you happen to be in the area during this period, be sure to check out what is in effect one of the most curious festivals in the world!
Photo ©, Viaggio Routard
PRACTICAL INFO
HOW TO GET
Castrillo de Murcia is located less than 40 km from Burgos, reachable EXCLUSIVELY by car, in just over 30 minutes.
You cross the Autovia Camino de Santiago for about 35 kilometers, in the direction of Leon. Then, take the BU-P-4041 road, passing through the small town of Olmillos de Sasamón.
There are no bus lines that allow you to reach the small Spanish village. As soon as you arrive, you can leave your car near the center.
WHAT TO SEE DURING THE BABY JUMPING
The event is organized by the Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament of Minerva. It takes place, every year, during the week of Corpus Domini, reaching its climax on Sunday with El Salto del Colacho (Devil’s Leap). Locals decorate their homes. Men in red and yellow overalls, following the path of the procession, jump over children lying in the street on mats. In hand, a ponytail with which they whip the common spectators who cover them with insults! Really incredible, how absurd!
The lucky (!) Children lying on the street are all those born during the previous twelve months of the year. Blessed are they, one would say to the locals.
*The program, timetable and all information contained herein are for information purposes only and are not to be considered OFFICIAL.
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