I Wonder Why...?

Although there are those who still think that Madrid has always been the capital of Spain, the truth is that it has not. Throughout the history of the country and for different historical reasons throughout it, the capital moved in the past to other cities such as Toledo, Valladolid, Cádiz or Valencia, among others. All this together with the first capitals that were part of the peninsula at the time of ancient Visigothic Hispania, at the time of the Roman Republic or at the beginning of the Kingdom of Spain that originated after the reconquest in Covadonga (Asturias). These are the cities that have been the capital of Spain:

Cordoba

Córdoba was founded by the Romans during the second century BC, and it also became the capital of Hispania in times of the Roman Republic, as well as the Betica province during the Roman Empire. But its moment of splendour as a capital occurred during the Muslim domination of the Iberian Peninsula when it rose as the capital of the Emirate of Córdoba. A history that has also led it to become the city that houses the most titles of World Heritage Sites and thanks to authentic treasures that still live on today such as the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, its historic centre, the Fiesta de Los Patios or the palatine city of Medina Azahara, among others.

Barcelona

Barcelona was the first capital of Hispania Goda and it was reinstated several times specifically during the Visigothic period. Known at that time as Barcino, present-day Barcelona was a Roman city until the arrival of the Goths. Few remains from that Visigoth period are currently preserved in Barcelona, but most of what has been preserved can be seen in the archaeological basement of the Barcelona History Museum. Another important moment in the history of the city would be in 1937 when, in the middle of the Civil War, it was decided to move the headquarters of the Republican Government to Barcelona.

Cangas de Onís

In addition to being known as one of the must-see visits if you travel to Asturias, as well as for the Covadonga Cave, the Basilica and the famous lakes of Covadonga, Cangas de Onís was the first capital of Asturias and according to Asturians, it was also the first capital of the Kingdom of Spain. It was precisely in Covadonga where Don Pelayo won the battle against Muslim troops in 722, thus initiating the Reconquest. In Cangas de Onís, Don Pelayo first established the capital of the Kingdom of Asturias and later that of Spain.
 

Toledo

Toledo has had its role as capital in two moments in history. The first was in the year 567 when King Atanagildo decided to move the capital of the Spanish Visigothic Kingdom from Barcelona to Toledo. In this way, Toledo became the capital of the Kingdom of Spain. Hundreds of years later, between 1519 and 1561, Toledo once again became the capital of the Spanish empire with Carlos V, but they would finally end up in 1561 with the Cortes moving to Madrid.

Madrid

The history of Madrid as capital begins in May 1561 when Felipe II makes the decision to establish the Court permanently in this city. A decision that would forever change the history of the city, which at that time was just one more city in the kingdom. One of the main reasons associated with this decision is the geographical centrality of Madrid with respect to the rest of the peninsula, although this change has also been linked to political and love affairs on the part of Felipe II.

From this moment the accelerated growth of this city began, although it should be noted that between 1601 and 1939 the Cortes passed in different periods of time from Madrid to other cities such as Valladolid, Seville, Cádiz, Valencia or Burgos, the latter two, coinciding with the instability of the Spanish Civil War. It is finally in 1939 when the capital city returns permanently to Madrid.

Valladolid

For the city of Valladolid, history took an unexpected turn in 1601 after the advisor of Felipe III, the Duke of Lerma, managed to transfer the Court of Madrid to Valladolid. An unexpected event that made Valladolid the capital of the Empire from 1601 to 1606. An event that also brought this city its moment of maximum splendour.

Seville

Seville was the capital of Spain specifically for two years and at the same time that the Napoleonic wars occurred (between 1808 and 1810). In those years, a large part of Spanish territory was invaded by Napoleon's troops and Seville was one of the places where they fought with the greatest force against these troops. It was specifically on December 16, 1808, when Count Floridablanca, president of the 'Junta Central', summoned the Junta to Seville, from which time Seville became the Spanish capital, the Real Alcázar being the headquarters of the  'Junta Central'. This came to an end in January 1810 when Seville finally surrendered to the French army.

Cadiz

In addition to being the oldest city in Spain and also in Europe, its foundation being located eighty years after the Trojan War around the 13th century BC, Cádiz also became the capital of Spain after the transfer of the Cortes and after the handover of Seville to the French. Its period as capital city ran from 1810 to 1813 and it was in this city where the Spanish Constitution of 1812, La Pepa, was proclaimed.

Valencia

Valencia also experienced its time as the capital of Spain, something that occurred between November 1936 and October 1937, after the Council of Ministers made the decision to move the capital and due to the dangerous approach of Franco's troops to Madrid. A moment in history that corresponded to the Second Republic and in the midst of the Civil War. A new capital that happened from one day to the next. The current headquarters of the Cortes, the Palacio de Los Borja, was converted to the republican centre of operations.

Burgos

After the government of the Republic moved between 1936 and 1939 from Valencia, to Barcelona and Gerona and Figueras, finally, Burgos ended up holding the capital of Spain between April 1 and October 18, 1939, coinciding with the end of the Spanish Civil War. This resulted in Burgos becoming the capital of nationalist Spain after the coup against the Republic.

Every February, the streets of Barcelona come alive with a celebration deeply rooted in the city’s rich history and cultural fabric: the Festes de Santa Eulàlia. This vibrant festival honours Santa Eulalia, Barcelona’s co-patron saint, and reflects the distinct blend of reverence, tradition, and joyous festivity that characterizes the Catalan capital. This year it starts on February 12th.

Santa Eulalia of Barcelona is revered as a martyr and is counted among the city’s most significant historical figures. According to tradition, Eulalia was a young, pious girl who lived during Roman times. At the tender age of 13, she publicly opposed the persecution of Christians ordered by Emperor Diocletian. Her defiance led to her arrest and subsequent martyrdom under gruesome circumstances, involving thirteen tortures, one for each year of her life. Her bravery and faith secured her a lasting place in the hearts of Barcelonians.

The Festes de Santa Eulàlia commence with a solemn yet spirited atmosphere. The festival begins with a solemn Mass held at the cathedral of Santa Eulalia, also known as La Seu. A grand parade follows, featuring the city’s iconic gegants (giants) and capgrossos (big-headed figures). Adorned in elaborate costumes, these giant figures parade through the city, captivating spectators with their towering presence and rhythmic dance.

One of the most breathtaking highlights of the festival is the display of castells. These human towers, constructed by agile teams called Castellers, symbolize collective effort and communal unity. Constructing a Castell involves a precise interplay of strength, balance, and teamwork, with young children often climbing to the very top. The sight of a Castell reaching skyward is both thrilling and deeply emblematic of Catalan culture.

The Sardana, a traditional Catalan circle dance, forms another integral part of the Festes de Santa Eulàlia. Local dance groups gather in public squares, inviting residents and visitors alike to join in this communal dance. With hands linked, dancers perform intricate steps to the accompanying strains of cobla music, fostering a sense of community and shared heritage.

For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled experience, the correfoc (fire run) provides an exhilarating spectacle. As night falls, costumed devils and mythical creatures take to the streets, wielding sparklers and fireworks. They charge through the crowd to the beat of drums, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Participants and onlookers alike are advised to wear protective clothing to fully enjoy this unique tradition safely.

One of the more contemporary additions to the festival program is the stunning display of light and sound installations that decorate Barcelona’s buildings and public spaces. Iconic landmarks such as the Ajuntament (City Hall) and the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar are transformed into canvases for brilliant projections, casting the city in a luminous, almost magical hue.

In keeping with the spirit of Santa Eulalia, who is often characterized as the patron saint of children, the festival also includes numerous activities designed for young ones. From storytelling sessions detailing the life of Santa Eulalia to workshops and craft activities, children play a central role in the celebrations, learning about their heritage in an engaging and festive environment.

While the Festes de Santa Eulàlia is deeply rooted in religious tradition, it serves a broader cultural and social purpose. It is a time for Barcelonians to come together, celebrate their heritage, and reaffirm their communal bonds. The festival also highlights the city’s commitment to preserving and promoting Catalan culture, ensuring that traditions are passed down through generations.

For visitors, the Festes de Santa Eulàlia offer a unique opportunity to experience both the historical and contemporary facets of Barcelona. The city’s streets, already famed for their architectural splendour and vibrant energy, take on an even more dynamic character during the festival. By participating in the events, sampling local culinary delights, and mingling with residents, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

The Festes de Santa Eulàlia stand as a testament to Barcelona’s enduring spirit of celebration and cultural pride. Honouring the legacy of a young girl whose bravery left an indelible mark on the city’s history, the festival seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern expressions of community. Whether through the majestic parades, the daring human towers, or the dazzling light displays, the festival offers a heartfelt celebration of Barcelona’s past and present. For locals and visitors alike, the Festes de Santa Eulàlia are a vibrant reminder of the city’s unique charm and its profound sense of identity.