Sant Maties festivities in Montblanc

Montblanc celebrates the Sant Maties Festival once again this year!

The Sant Maties Festival is held in honor of the patron saint of Montblanc. Initially, the town's patron saint was Sant Jordi, but in 1687 he was replaced by Sant Maties by popular vote, after he was considered the savior of Montblanc during a devastating locust plague.

The origin of the current festivities dates back to the old fairs, held in Montblanc from December 6th to 8th between 1844 and 1971. These were very popular fairs, where horses, sheep, local agricultural products, and a wide variety of other goods were traded. The day before, the procession to and from Compline took place, with the departure of the festive procession accompanying the authorities, an event considered the precursor to the current procession.

For a few years, a multi-sector fair with a strong food and wine component was also held. Over time, this fair gradually declined in importance until it was discontinued in 2007.

Nowadays, after mass, the Plaza Mayor becomes the main stage for the Sant Maties Festival, with performances by all of the town's folk groups. It's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the various elements of the popular procession and the festive bestiary. The program of events also includes a gigantic gathering, sardana dances, theatrical performances, and a human tower festival, offering a celebration rich in culture and tradition.

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