The Canigó Flame

The dramatically situated mountain of Canigó - Canigou in French - is one of the most easterly Pyrenean peaks, full of historical significance for Catalan speakers north and south of the Pyrenees. On the 22nd a huge beacon is lit on the summit, and torches kindled in the fire are carried down in relay to light Saint John's Eve bonfires in towns and cities all over Catalonia, symbolising the vitality of Catalan culture. In Barcelona, the flame is received in Plaça Sant Jaume on the afternoon of the 23rd, to great fanfare. In the evening, representatives gather to receive the same flame and carry it to each of the city's districts to light their own bonfires.