The Geganta is one of the Giants of Mataró and a member of the Família Robafaves. She is Robafaves’ partner and has the appearance of a classical queen, with a crown, white veil and velvet cape.

In her left hand she carries a bouquet of natural flowers and, in her right, a handkerchief made by a group of elderly women from Mataró. Together with Robafaves, Toneta and Maneló, she is one of the most representative figures of Les Santes, Mataró’s Festa Major.

History of the Geganta of Mataró

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

The construction of the current Geganta 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. The Geganta was taken to the workshop of Manel Casserres in Solsona, who kept the metal structures but completely remodelled her 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 the Geganta’s costume.

In 2014, Mataró City Council renewed the Geganta’s costume once again with Manuel Casserres. This renewal gave her a more striking and distinctive costume than the more continuous approach used for the other figures of the Família Robafaves.

The dances of the Geganta

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

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

The Geganta during Les Santes de Mataró

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

During the Festa Major, she 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. She also appears on Saint George’s Day, 23 April.

The Geganta and the Família Robafaves

The Geganta is part of the Família Robafaves together with Robafaves, 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 the Geganta of Mataró

Who is the Geganta of Mataró?
The Geganta is one of the four giants that make up the Família Robafaves. She is Robafaves’ partner and one of the main figures among the Giants of Mataró.

What does the Geganta of Mataró look like?
She has the appearance of a classical queen, with a crown, white veil and velvet cape. She carries a bouquet of natural flowers in her left hand and a handkerchief made by a group of elderly women from Mataró in her right.

When was the current Geganta built?
The construction of the current figure was commissioned from Josep Maria Diamant i Montañés in 1964. She 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.

Which dances does the Geganta perform?
During the Dormida, she dances La Masurca with Robafaves and then takes part in El Ball de Quatre with Robafaves, Toneta and Maneló. The choreography is by Montserrat Calsapeu.

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

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