Saint Stephen is considered the first martyr of Christianity. He died near Jerusalem, about a year or two after the crucifixion of Christ, accused by the Jewish people of blasphemy because of his teachings. Every December 26, most European countries honor his sacrifice with different religious acts. However, not all places are festive. And in countries like Spain, this celebration takes on an autonomous character. But where and why is Saint Stephen celebrated in Spain?
To answer this question, it is best to go back to the 8th and 9th centuries, when most of the peninsula was under Muslim rule and a small portion in the northeast belonged to the Carolingian Empire. Saint Stephen’s Day, then, was established in the Hispanic Brand as a holiday due to both religious and practical reasons: it allowed families in rural areas to have an extra day to visit their relatives after Christmas, facilitating the return of the long trips that were usually made at the time.
Saint Stephen in Catalonia
In Catalonia, Saint Stephen’s Day is deeply linked to its history and traditions. Beyond the religious roots, the festival symbolizes a cultural heritage linked to the ancient Hispanic March and Carolingian influence. Currently, it is a holiday in which families gather to share traditional foods, such as cannelloni, and participate in social events that reinforce Catalan identity.
Saint Stephen in the Balearic Islands
The Balearic archipelago also celebrates Saint Stephen as a regional holiday, largely due to its historical and cultural connection with Catalonia. The influence of Crown of Aragon During the Middle Ages it marked the customs of the islands, including the celebration of this day.
Saint Stephen in the Valencian Community
Although San Esteban is not a holiday in the entire Valencian Community, it is relevant in some towns with Catalan historical influence. In these areas, the tradition is linked to the same medieval roots as in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands. However, its celebration is more limited and focuses on religious and customary activities.
Saint Stephen in the rest of Europe
St. Stephen’s Day is also a holiday in many European countries, although the forms of celebration vary depending on local culture. In Ireland, for example, it is known as ‘Wren Day’, where parades and activities were previously held that paid tribute to the wren, a bird associated with ancient local legends.
In countries like Germany, Austria and Switzerland, December 26 is a day for quiet family gatherings, spreading the Christmas spirit. In Hungary and Poland, in addition to being a holiday, it is full of religious events in honor of the saint, such as special masses and processions. Even in places where it is not a holiday, such as France, many churches celebrate the memory of the first Christian martyr with solemn ceremonies.
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