L'Àliga de Mataró (the Eagle of Mataró) is a calm and majestic figure, with wings half spread, a crown and a dove in its beak. It always dances behind the Robafaves family and in front of the authorities. It has documentary references dating back to 1601 and was recovered in 1987 thanks to a group of people from the Giants of Mataró collective and the Mataró City Council.

History of L'Àliga de Mataró

The construction of the current Àliga was commissioned to Solsona-born sculptor Manel Casserres, who in just 4 months created the figure, the costume for the carriers and the costume for the accompanying musicians. The carriers' costume consists of a white shirt, black sash, green knee-length baggy trousers, white socks and black five-strap espadrilles.

The dance of L'Àliga

L'Àliga performs a choreography by Montse Calsapeu accompanied by the music Ball de l'Àliga, from the archive of the Abbey of Montserrat and performed by the Ministrils de Mataró with various instruments: tarotes, flabiols, violins, bagpipes, trombones and tabors.

The dance begins with a majestic promenade followed by spins that gradually gain rhythm. Then a series of movements combined with jumps intended to symbolise the strength of the figure. The final movements, in the manner of greetings, end with a great bow.

Les Santes events featuring L'Àliga

The main event for L'Àliga de Mataró is the Anada a l'Ofici at the Les Santes mass on 27 July, where it performs its own dance before the relics of Les Santes. It also takes part in la Crida, l'Anada a la Residència Sant Josep, el No n'hi ha prou and l'Anem a tancar.

Frequently asked questions about L'Àliga de Mataró

When was L'Àliga de Mataró created?
It has documentary references dating back to 1601. It was recovered in 1987 by sculptor Manel Casserres, who built it in just 4 months.

What does L'Àliga de Mataró look like?
It is a calm and majestic figure with wings half spread, a crown and a dove in its beak. It always dances behind the Robafaves family and in front of the authorities.

What music accompanies the dance of L'Àliga?
The music Ball de l'Àliga, from the archive of the Abbey of Montserrat, performed by the Ministrils de Mataró with tarotes, flabiols, violins, bagpipes, trombones and tabors.

What is L'Àliga's main event at Les Santes?
The Anada a l'Ofici on 27 July, where it dances before the relics of Les Santes at the Festival's main mass.

Where can I buy L'Àliga de Mataró products?
At Robafaves, at Carrer Montserrat 7 in Mataró and in the online shop. T-shirts, mugs, magnets and much more featuring L'Àliga hand-embroidered.