Robafaves is one of the Giants of Mataró and the head of the Família Robafaves. With a stern expression and an imposing build, he is dressed as a medieval warrior, with a helmet, cape, chainmail and sword, and his appearance is inspired by the figure and character of King James I the Conqueror.

On his chest he wears three or four medals, depending on the occasion, and in his left hand he carries a scroll with the legend explaining the origin of his name, while his right hand holds his cape. He is one of the most representative figures of Les Santes, Mataró’s Festa Major.

History of Robafaves

The Giants of Mataró have been documented since the late 17th century, but the current figure of Robafaves is the result of different constructions, restorations and transformations over time.

The construction of the current Robafaves was commissioned from Josep Maria Diamant i Montañés in 1964, who created new forms 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. Robafaves 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 Robafaves’ costume.

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

The dances of Robafaves

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

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

Robafaves during Les Santes de Mataró

Robafaves takes part in many of the main events of Les Santes de Mataró. Together with the Geganta, Toneta and Maneló, 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.

The legend of Robafaves

According to popular legend, the town of Argentona once invited the Giants of Mataró to dance. When the festivities were over, on their way back to Mataró, the giant bearers saw some very large and attractive broad beans growing in a field beside the road.

They were so tempting that the bearers stopped the giants and, after making sure that nobody could see them, began to pick as many broad beans as they could.

As they did not have enough room in their pockets, they decided to hide them beneath the giant’s cape and continued their journey back to Mataró.

As they were about to reach the City Hall, children surrounded them and asked the giants to dance. The bearers resisted, but an authority ordered them to do so. The giant began to spin around and, with all the movement, the broad beans started falling to the ground.

People began to shout: “Ha robat faves! Ha robat faves!” (“He has stolen broad beans!”).

This is the popular legend that explains the origin of the name Robafaves. The name was first officially documented in 1888.

Robafaves and the Família Robafaves

Robafaves is part of the Família Robafaves together with the Geganta, Toneta and Maneló. 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 Robafaves

Who is Robafaves?
Robafaves is one of the four giants that make up the Família Robafaves and one of the main figures among the Giants of Mataró. His appearance is inspired by King James I the Conqueror.

Why is he called Robafaves?
According to popular legend, the bearers of the Giants of Mataró took broad beans from a field near Argentona and hid them beneath the giant’s cape. When they arrived in Mataró and began to dance, the beans fell to the ground and people shouted “Ha robat faves!”. The name was first officially documented in 1888.

Which historical figure inspired Robafaves?
His appearance is inspired by the figure and character of King James I the Conqueror. He wears a helmet, cape, chainmail and sword, following the appearance of a medieval warrior.

When was the current Robafaves built?
The construction of the current figure was commissioned from Josep Maria Diamant i Montañés in 1964. It has subsequently undergone several remodellings and costume renewals.

Who are the members of the Família Robafaves?
The Família Robafaves consists of Robafaves, the Geganta, Toneta and Maneló.

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