Named Montblanc (White Mountain), originally due to a lack of green vegetation, the town today, set amidst lush vineyards and abundant fields, can only be compared to a fairy tale kingdom. Built on top of a hill in the 11th century as a safeguard against flooding from the nearby rivers, Montblanc maintains its old world atmosphere within high medieval walls.
According to the Catalan historian, Joan Amades, the walls of Montblanc are the origin of Catalonia's most famous legend Sant Jordi, celebrated throughout Catalunya on the 23rd of April. The story tells how a wicked dragon from a nearby lake terrorized the village, devouring all the far animals until there were none left. The dragon then demanded one of the villagers on condition that he would vacate the town. The villagers agreed, drew lots and the King's daughter was selected as the sacrificial victim. Only minutes before the princess, dressed in white, was about to be eaten by the dragon, a young knight appeared on horseback, speared the dragon with his sword and saved the princess. Where the dragon fell, a rose bush appeared with red roses the colour of the dragon's blood. The knight plucked a rose and gave it to the princess before riding off out of the gates and into the sunset.
To commemorate this legend, on the day of Saint Jordi, men traditionally give women a rose while females give males a book. Although this might seem slightly unfair, the atmosphere throughout Catalunya on the 23rd of April can not help but impress. The epicenter of this festive activity is, of course, at Montblanc where the party lasts an entire week. During the final week of April, this festival livens up the streets of Montblanc in a whirl of colourful events.
Pat and I visited Montblanc upon returning home from our overnight stay in Siurana (see blog posted on May 8th). We didn't realize until later in the Spring, the enormous significance of the town to the legend of Sant Jordi, which I have printed above. To be sure, the town was decorated for Mardi Gras celebrations as the Festival of Sant Jordi would not be held for another few weeks.
The town as seen from afar:
A map of the walled city:
Front entrance of the Church in Montblanc
Coffee break in the main square
A local chocolate shop-note the "fried eggs"!
Florist shops are usually open on Sunday mornings
Medieval streets
Public water source
Another Church on the outskirts of town
Hasta luego...
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