Dia De La Cruz

Every year, on the 3rd of May, Frigiliana hosts a major celebration of Christian symbolism; "Dia de la Cruz". In English, "Day of the Cross".

Early in the morning each street and square in Frigiliana gathers, or buys, large boxes of flowers and starts to design and construct their elaborate and colourful crosses.

The crosses vary in size, but many are at least two metres in height.

A wide variety of flowers are used but the most popular are red and white carnations and lilies.

The flower stems are carefully placed into specially constructed wooden frames, and the final effect of the tightly packed flowers is usually stunning.

By noon the crosses are complete, the surrounding areas are swept clear of discarded flowers and foliage, local wine and delicacies are placed nearby and the serious business of viewing, drinking and eating commences.

Visitors and locals walk the narrow streets, admiring the floral arrangements and sampling the local wine and tapas.

I don't know if there is a formal competition but the design and build of the crosses appears to be fiercely competitive.

Until 1960, Dia de la Cruz was an official holy day in the Catholic Church. However, in that year, Pope John XXIII removed it from the liturgical calendar (as there is another Holy Cross feast day in September).

Nevertheless, the old church of San Antonio often has a spectacular cross of flowers just outside its entrance.

At about five o clock the mayor officially 'opens' the event. After a short speech the evening's entertainment starts.

The village band strikes up a medley of old favourites, sometimes leading a procession through the narrow streets.

After the band there are usually several performances of traditional dancing and flamenco, all of which are free of charge.

Around 8 pm a band alights the stage and plays dance music until late at night.

At the same time dancing and celebrational eating and drinking seem to spring up here, there, and everywhere in the village and the partying continues until the early hours of the next morning.

It is said that the celebrations have their origins in pagan times, possibly celebrating the end of Spring and the arrival of Summer.

Regardless, Dia de la Cruz is an important, enjoyable and interesting fiesta - and not be missed if you are visiting Frigiliana on, or near, the 3rd of May.

All the sights and activities mentioned on this page are conveniently located within a two to ten minute walk of your holiday apartment, making the whole event easily accessible.



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