Roses, Books and Lovers: Sant Jordi in Barcelona

A day full of love and surprises.

Roses, books and lovers: Sant Jordi in Barcelona is full of them every year on the 23rd of April. In Catalonia the World Book Day becomes an especially romantic day. The people in Catalonia celebrate the day of their patron saint, Sant Jordi, with a curious tradition. If you want to know what it’s about, its origin and how to enjoy the festivities, please carry on reading.

The day of Sant Jordi is one of the most original celebrations in Catalonia, combining culture and romanticism. On this day, 23rd of April, according to tradition couples exchange gifts: a book for the men and a rose for the women. Book and flower stalls are set up along the streets of Barcelona. They fill with people walking around stalls, looking for a gift for their beloved, and for their family and friends, too. You will be able to find the latest publications, see well-known artists signing copies of their books, and of course, smell the scent of the roses.

Photo by Francis Lenn on Visualhunt / CC BY

This curious festival comes from a mixture of traditions from different periods. It coincides, on one hand, with the fact that Sant Jordi has been the patron saint of Catalonia since the 15th century and the 23rd of April is traditionally the day he is celebrated on; on the other hand, it comes from the famous legend of St George and the dragon and the old medieval tradition of visiting the Chapel of Sant Jordi in the Government Palace, where a rose fair or “lovers” fair used to take place. This is why Sant Jordi is also the patron saint of lovers in Catalonia.The Government Palace is open for visits on this day so it is a great opportunity to go and see it. Inside in the noble gallery you will be able to buy roses and the proceedings go to charity. There is also a traditional carillon concert that day. The institutional activities also include the official mass in the Chapel of Sant Jordi and the blessing of roses in the Gothic courtyard in the building.

Where to Stay

Of course you want to experience this heart-warming festival for yourself! So why not book a trip to Barcelona right now? And here at ChicRoom Barcelona we have the accomodation covered. We offer a wide selection of luxury holiday apartments that we are sure you'll love. They are located in all the best areas of the city so you will be near to everything you need to see during your stay. If you're looking for a romantic apartment to enjoy this romantic festival, we recommend Zen Luxury I or Zen Luxury II.

Visit our website and find your luxury apartment for Sant Jordi's day today!

Zen Luxury I                                                                    Zen Luxury II