The Momerota of Mataró
The Momerota of Mataró
The Momerota of Mataró is one of the most representative fire figures of the city’s popular culture. It was officially presented on 25 July 1979, as part of a popular initiative to recover and renew the festive heritage of Les Santes.
The Momerota was created by actor Boris Ruiz. It is a fire figure carried by two people, with a bull’s head, two horns with six fire points each and a mule-shaped body.
History of the Momerota of Mataró
The Momerota appeared during a period of revival of popular culture and renewal of Mataró’s Festa Major. The figure was first presented on 25 July 1979, coinciding with the beginning of Les Santes.
It was not until 1981 that the figure, its bearers and musicians were recognised by the local authorities and the Momerota became part of the city’s heritage.
Its appearance combines a bull’s head with a mule-shaped body. Its two horns feature six fire points each, an important part of the figure’s identity during its pyrotechnic performances.
The Colla de la Momerota
The Colla de la Momerota de Mataró consists of around forty bearers. Their traditional costume includes a loose smock, sash, black trousers, traditional esparto espadrilles and a black beret.
The figure is accompanied by around twenty musicians playing gralles and drums during its processions, dances and performances.
The dance of the Momerota
The Momerota has its own dance with choreography by Montserrat Calsapeu, accompanied by gralles and drums.
The dance combines a sequence of small jumps, half and full turns, movements and swings of the figure’s body. It culminates in circular movements that progressively increase in speed.
The Momerota during Les Santes de Mataró
The Momerota takes part in several of the main events of Les Santes de Mataró and is one of the fire figures associated with the city’s Festa Major.
During Les Santes it takes part in events including the Crida, Correfoc, Anada a Ofici, Passada, No n’hi ha prou and Anem a Tancar.
Outside Les Santes, it also appears during the Carnival of Mataró and at neighbourhood festivals across the city.
The Momerota and the festive figures of Mataró
The Momerota forms part of Mataró’s popular culture and shares the institutional procession with the Família Robafaves, the Nans and other festive groups of the city.
Discover the Família Robafaves, the Nans and the other figures on our page dedicated to the Giants of Mataró, the Nans and the bestiary.
Frequently asked questions about the Momerota of Mataró
What is the Momerota of Mataró?
The Momerota is a fire figure from Mataró’s popular culture, with a bull’s head, two horns and a mule-shaped body. It is carried by two people.
When was the Momerota of Mataró created?
It was officially presented on 25 July 1979 and became part of the city’s heritage in 1981.
Who created the Momerota?
The Momerota of Mataró was created by actor Boris Ruiz.
How many fire points does the Momerota have?
It has two horns with six fire points each, for a total of twelve fire points.
Who forms the Colla de la Momerota?
The group consists of around forty bearers and around twenty musicians who accompany the figure with gralles and drums.
What dance does the Momerota perform?
The Momerota has its own dance with choreography by Montserrat Calsapeu, performed to the sound of gralles and drums.
When does the Momerota appear?
Mainly during Les Santes, from 25 to 29 July. It also appears during the Carnival of Mataró and at neighbourhood festivals in the city.
Where can I buy Momerota of Mataró products?
At Robafaves, at 7 Carrer de Montserrat in Mataró, and in our online shop. You can find different products featuring the Momerota, including T-shirts, mugs, temporary tattoos and other items related to Les Santes.
