![]() The flame has been coming to Barcelona since the 1970s. The flame remains lit all year round in Perpignan’s Castle Tower and it is renewed bright and early on the morning of each June 23 rd, at the summit of Canigó. Since 1966 various groups and organisations have brought the flame down from the Canigó mountain and distributed it around the Catalan-speaking lands to light the Sant Joan bonfires. ![]() Despite the bans and restrictions of the 20 th century, though, the festival has continued to this day. In fact, laws were introduced in the 18 th century to curb the spread of fireworks and bonfires in the city, which suggests that by that time it was already a well-established tradition. The Nit de Sant Joan has long been celebrated in Barcelona, with bonfires at the heart of the festivities, as it is a commonly held belief that the flames frighten off and dispel the evil spirits that are are abroad on this night. It is from a cult of the sun, celebrating the lengthening of the day and the summer solstice. The tradition long predates the introduction of Christianity. John’s Eve has pagan origins and is one of the solstice festivals, like Christmas. John the Baptist, so it has become a festival marked by symbolic elements and customs: the purifying fire, midnight bathing, the herbs of Sant Joan, songs, dances, cures and other ritual magic. The Catholic Church combined it with a celebration of the birth of St. The night of 23 rd June is a magical night celebrating the summer solstice, just a couple of days late. When the bonfires are lit the celebrations, the revetlles, begin in the Barcelona’s streets and squares, along with neighbourhood meals, firework displays, dances and revelry until the small hours. Then the representatives of each neighbourhood take the flame to light bonfires across the city. In the afternoon of 23 rd June the Canigó Flame reaches Plaça de Sant Jaume, where it is received by representatives of the municipal authorities, along with City’s Eagle and Giants, to a rendition of the Muntanyes del Canigó. In Barcelona everyone celebrates in their own way, with neighbours, friends and families getting together for an evening meal, to play music and light bonfires. John’s Eve celebrations, are held across the country and take many forms.
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