Spain Makes Sport of Social Climbing

A towering tradition once again is underway in northeastern Spain. In towns and cities across the Catalonia region, teams of men, women and children are climbing on each other’s shoulders to create many-tiered human “castles.” The suspense and sometimes spectacular spills draw hefty crowds of tourists and locals alike.

The free events, held in town squares on weekends and holidays through November, feature the home team plus two others. Each tries to build and dismantle three types of castles. Performances may last several hours.

Castellera is unique to Catalonia, which has a complex history and its own language, Catalan. The tradition dates at least as far back as the 18th century.

For more information, contact local tourist offices after arriving in Spain or call the Catalan Tourism Office in Barcelona; telephone 011-343-301-7443, fax 011-343-412-2570. Performance schedules are printed in Catalonian newspapers in May.