Maneló is one of the Giants of Mataró and the husband of Toneta, daughter of Robafaves and the Geganta. Originally from Terrassa, he joined the Família Robafaves in 1950, when he married Toneta in a major festive ceremony during Les Santes.

The exact origin of his name is unknown. Maneló inherited the name previously given to the son of the former Giants of Mataró, then known as Manueló, according to written references by the Baron of Maldà.

Maneló, from Terrassa to Mataró

Maneló’s connection with Terrassa originated in an exchange between the city councils of Mataró and Terrassa. The Família Robafaves took part in the major giants’ gathering held in Terrassa on 2 July 1950 and, during Les Santes that same year, the Giants of Terrassa visited Mataró for the wedding of Maneló and Toneta.

Maneló thus became a member of the Família Robafaves as Toneta’s husband and the son-in-law of Robafaves and the Geganta.

History of Maneló of Mataró

Maneló was commissioned from Josep Maria Diamant i Montañés and designed by Barcelona sculptor Lluís Sabadell in 1950.

In 1964, the figure underwent a new remodelling, with new forms created using polyester to reduce the weight and improve durability.

In 1984, Mataró City Council registered the Giants as part of the city’s public heritage. Maneló was taken to the workshop of Manel Casserres in Solsona, who kept the metal structures but completely remodelled his appearance, returning to the use of cardboard for the head and hands.

A new costume was also created by Llorenç Illa. In 1992, Manel Casserres once again renewed Maneló’s costume.

In 2014, Mataró City Council renewed Maneló’s costume once again with Manuel Casserres, maintaining a continuous style without major changes to his appearance.

The dances of Maneló

Maneló dances to the music of the flabiol players during processions and at particularly significant moments of Les Santes.

During the Dormida, Maneló and Toneta dance El Xotis d’en Borina, from the repertoire of flabiol player Quirze Perich. Afterwards, Maneló, Toneta, Robafaves and the Geganta dance El Ball de Quatre together, composed by Carles Arabia. The choreography for these dances is by Montserrat Calsapeu.

Maneló during Les Santes de Mataró

Maneló takes part in many of the main events of Les Santes de Mataró. Together with Robafaves, the Geganta and Toneta, he forms the Família Robafaves, which plays a central role in the city’s institutional procession.

During the Festa Major, he takes part in events such as the Crida, Desvetllament Bellugós, Anada a Ofici, Passada, Anada a la Residència Sant Josep, No n’hi ha prou and Anem a Tancar. He also appears on Saint George’s Day, 23 April.

Maneló and the Família Robafaves

Maneló is part of the Família Robafaves together with Robafaves, the Geganta and Toneta. The four are the institutional giants of Mataró and take part together in many of the most important events of Les Santes.

The Família Robafaves is accompanied by the 18 Nans of Mataró and forms part of the institutional procession alongside other figures from the city’s popular culture.

Discover the history of the whole family, the Nans and the other figures on our page dedicated to the Giants of Mataró.

Frequently asked questions about Maneló of Mataró

Who is Maneló?
Maneló is Toneta’s husband and the son-in-law of Robafaves and the Geganta. Originally from Terrassa, he joined the Família Robafaves in 1950 when he married Toneta during Les Santes.

Why is Maneló from Terrassa?
His connection with Terrassa originated in an exchange between the city councils of Mataró and Terrassa in 1950, involving gatherings and visits by the giants of both cities.

When did Maneló and Toneta get married?
Maneló and Toneta married during Les Santes in 1950, in a festive ceremony that marked Maneló’s incorporation into the Família Robafaves.

Where does the name Maneló come from?
The exact origin of the name is unknown. It recalls the name Manueló, used for the son of the former Giants of Mataró according to written references by the Baron of Maldà.

When was Maneló built?
The figure was created in 1950, commissioned from Josep Maria Diamant i Montañés and designed by Lluís Sabadell. It has subsequently undergone several remodellings and costume renewals.

Which dances does Maneló perform?
During the Dormida, he dances El Xotis d’en Borina with Toneta and then takes part in El Ball de Quatre with the whole Família Robafaves. The choreography is by Montserrat Calsapeu.

When does Maneló appear?
Mainly during Les Santes, from 25 to 29 July, and on Saint George’s Day, 23 April. He may also take part in other appearances and events throughout the year.

Where can I buy Maneló products?
At Robafaves, at 7 Carrer de Montserrat in Mataró, and in our online shop. You can find different products featuring Maneló and the Giants of Mataró throughout the year.