The Basilisc of Mataró
The Basilisc of Mataró
The Basilisc of Mataró is a fire figure inspired by the mythological basilisk, a legendary creature traditionally represented with features of both a serpent and a rooster.
The Basilisc of Mataró measures 3.10 metres high and 3 metres long, is carried by one person and has 10 fire points located on its mouth, wings and tail.
What is a basilisk?
The basilisk is a fantastic creature found in different mythological traditions and medieval bestiaries. Over time, it came to be depicted as a hybrid being combining features of a serpent and a rooster.
One of its best-known legendary attributes is its ability to turn those who look at it to stone. Medieval bestiaries added features such as legs, feathers and a rooster’s beak, and the creature also appeared in art and heraldry.
The Basilisc of Mataró
The figure features a stylised and aggressive-looking rooster, with colourful feathers on its head and warm tones, combined with a darker serpent-like body with a reptilian texture.
Its tail has a pronounced curve and the wings depict the Basilisc as if it were about to take flight.
Around its neck it wears a metal crown with flames, a reference to the sun and to the traditional symbolism of the rooster as a solar animal.
The design therefore incorporates several characteristics traditionally associated with the mythological basilisk in medieval representations and descriptions.
The fire points of the Basilisc
The Basilisc of Mataró has 10 fire points located on its mouth, wings and tail.
It is carried by one person and combines its mythological appearance with the pyrotechnic tradition of Catalan fire figures.
The Basilisc at L’Encesa de Mataró
The Basilisc of Mataró takes part in L’Encesa de Mataró, a popular-culture and fire event held in the lead-up to Les Santes de Mataró.
Its participation connects the Basilisc with the celebrations preceding the city’s Festa Major and with Mataró’s wider tradition of fire figures and groups.
The Basilisc and the bestiary of Mataró
The Basilisc forms part of the bestiary and fire figures associated with Mataró’s popular culture.
Discover the Família Robafaves, the Nans and other figures on our page dedicated to the Giants of Mataró, the Nans and the bestiary.
Frequently asked questions about the Basilisc of Mataró
What is a basilisk?
A basilisk is a mythological creature traditionally represented as a hybrid of a serpent and a rooster. One of its best-known legendary powers is the ability to turn people to stone with its gaze.
What does the Basilisc of Mataró look like?
It is a fire figure combining features of a rooster and a serpent, with wings, a curved tail and a metal crown around its neck.
How large is the Basilisc of Mataró?
It measures 3.10 metres high and 3 metres long and is carried by one person.
How many fire points does the Basilisc of Mataró have?
It has 10 fire points distributed across its mouth, wings and tail.
What does the Basilisc’s crown represent?
The metal crown around its neck refers to the sun and to the traditional symbolism of the rooster as a solar animal.
When does the Basilisc of Mataró appear?
It takes part in L’Encesa de Mataró, an event held before Les Santes.
Where can I buy Basilisc of Mataró products?
At Robafaves, at 7 Carrer de Montserrat in Mataró, and in our online shop. You can find Basilisc products including T-shirts, mugs and other items related to Mataró’s popular culture.
