Toneta is one of the Giants of Mataró and the daughter of Robafaves and the Geganta. Her history dates back to 1853, the year traditionally associated with the origin of this member of the Família Robafaves.

She is a gegantona or gegantoneta, a Catalan term for a smaller female giant, from which her current name, Toneta, derives. By 1957, she already appeared with the long blonde hair that characterises her image. She wears shades of pink and lilac and, like the Geganta, carries a bouquet of natural flowers in her right hand, while holding her skirt with her left.

History of Toneta of Mataró

Toneta’s history dates back to 1853, the year traditionally associated with her origin. Over time, the figure underwent different transformations before becoming the Toneta we know today.

The construction of the current Toneta 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. Toneta 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 Toneta’s costume.

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

The dances of Toneta

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

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

Toneta during Les Santes de Mataró

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

Toneta and the Família Robafaves

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

Who is Toneta of Mataró?
Toneta is the daughter of Robafaves and the Geganta and a member of the Família Robafaves. Her history dates back to 1853, and she is characterised by her long blonde hair and pink and lilac clothing.

Why is she called Toneta?
The figure is known as a gegantona or gegantoneta, Catalan terms for a smaller female giant, from which the name Toneta derives.

When does Toneta date from?
Toneta’s origin is traditionally dated to 1853. The current figure, however, was built in 1964.

When was the current Toneta 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 Toneta perform?
During the Dormida, she dances El Xotis d’en Borina with Maneló and then takes part in El Ball de Quatre with the whole Família Robafaves. The choreography is by Montserrat Calsapeu.

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