The Àliga of Mataró
The Àliga of Mataró
The Àliga of Mataró is one of the historic figures of the city’s institutional procession. Majestic and solemn in appearance, it has partially spread wings, wears a crown and holds a dove in its beak.
During its appearances, the Àliga takes its place behind the Família Robafaves and in front of the authorities. Documentary references to the figure date back to 1601, and it was revived in 1987 thanks to a group of people connected with the Giants of Mataró and Mataró City Council.
History of the Àliga of Mataró
The earliest known documentary references to the Àliga of Mataró date back to 1601, reflecting its long-standing connection with the city’s festive culture.
After disappearing for a long period, the figure was revived in 1987. The current Àliga was commissioned from sculptor Manel Casserres of Solsona, who created the figure in approximately four months, together with the costumes worn by its bearers and accompanying musicians.
The bearers’ costume consists of a white shirt, black sash, green knee-length baggy trousers, white socks and traditional black espadrilles.
The dance of the Àliga of Mataró
The Àliga performs a choreography by Montserrat Calsapeu to the music of the Ball de l’Àliga, preserved in the archive of Montserrat Abbey.
The music is performed by the Ministrils de Mataró using instruments including tarotes, flabiols, violins, bagpipes, trombones and drums.
The dance begins with a majestic procession before moving into turns that gradually increase in rhythm. It then incorporates a series of movements and jumps that reinforce the solemn yet powerful character of the figure. The final movements take the form of greetings and culminate in a deep bow.
The Àliga during Les Santes de Mataró
The Àliga plays a particularly important role during Les Santes de Mataró. One of its most significant appearances is the Anada a Ofici on 27 July, when it performs its own dance before the relics of Les Santes.
It also takes part in other Festa Major events, including the Crida, Anada a la Residència Sant Josep, No n’hi ha prou and Anem a Tancar.
The Àliga and Mataró’s institutional procession
The Àliga forms part of Mataró’s institutional procession alongside other figures and festive groups from the city’s popular culture.
In the traditional order of the procession, the Àliga takes its place behind the Família Robafaves and in front of the authorities.
Discover the Família Robafaves, the Nans and the other figures of the procession on our page dedicated to the Giants of Mataró, the Nans and the bestiary.
Frequently asked questions about the Àliga of Mataró
What is the Àliga of Mataró?
The Àliga is a historic figure of Mataró’s institutional procession. It has partially spread wings, wears a crown and holds a dove in its beak.
How old is the Àliga of Mataró?
Documentary references to the Àliga date back to 1601. The current figure was revived in 1987.
Who created the current Àliga?
The current Àliga of Mataró was created by sculptor Manel Casserres of Solsona for its revival in 1987.
What music accompanies the Àliga’s dance?
The Ball de l’Àliga, from the archive of Montserrat Abbey and performed by the Ministrils de Mataró.
Who created the choreography of the Àliga’s dance?
The choreography is by Montserrat Calsapeu.
What is one of the Àliga’s main events during Les Santes?
The Anada a Ofici on 27 July, when the Àliga performs its dance before the relics of Les Santes.
Where can I buy Àliga of Mataró products?
At Robafaves, at 7 Carrer de Montserrat in Mataró, and in our online shop. You can find different products featuring the Àliga and figures from Les Santes throughout the year.
