Day of Asturias observed in Spain

When did the Day of Asturias observed in Spain start?

The first recorded date of Day of Asturias observed in Spain being celebrated on September 9 was in the year 1983.

About Day of Asturias observed in Spain Holiday

Today, in the beautiful Spain, the 9th of September marks an important day for the region of Asturias. On this day, the people of Asturias come together to celebrate the ‘Day of Asturias’ in response to the region’s fight for autonomy from the central government in Spain in the 19th century. This year marks the 74th anniversary of the official recognition of the Autonomous Community of Asturias in Spain.

The festive spirit of the day is visible in Asturias from early morning. Hundreds of people from all over the region come together to take part in the street processions and parades that celebrate the achievements of their forefathers in the fight for autonomous rights. Along with the processions, there are often music and dance performances to honor Asturian culture as well as traditional Asturian gastronomy.

The celebration of the Day of Asturias is an important part of life in this culturally rich region. It encourages unity within the community and serve to further strengthen ties between the people of Asturias and those in the rest of Spain. Moreover, it provides a reminder to the citizens of Asturias that despite their small size, their voices and struggles in defense of their autonomy and values can have a lasting impact on the actions of the government. The Day of Asturias is an integral part of the region's history, which should be celebrated and passed down to future generations.

Day of Asturias Observed in Spain

The Day of Asturias is one of the oldest public holidays in Spain and a celebrated event for those originating from the region of Asturias. It is a festival of culture that marks the day in 1808 when the people of Asturias successfully defended their homeland from the invading forces of Napoleon. This heroic moment has been remembered ever since, with the Day of Asturias falling annually on the 9th of September.

History and Origin

For much of its history, the region of Asturias had been considered a peripheral entity in the Spanish state. During the early 19th century, however, the people of the region rose up in defense of their homeland, ushering in a heroic moment of national identity that serves to define the region today. As early as 1808, the Asturian people had formed a resistance movement, armed with weapons and their own courage. On the 9th of September in 1808, Napoleon’s advancing forces were finally repelled at the Battle of Soldados, and in celebration, the Day of Asturias was inaugurated.

Despite its rich history, the holiday was not officially established until 23 April 1998 by the regional government. This was an important development as it elevated the Day of Asturias from an irregular celebration of national pride to a public holiday, and one that was officially celebrated every year. As such, the Day of Asturias stands as an important symbol of Asturian regional identity – a testament to the brave actions of its people and their commitment to the region’s well-being.

Significance and Meaning

Today, the Day of Asturias is a day of national pride, unity, and celebration. It is a day that honors the people of Asturias and a moment of reflection upon the importance of their region and its distinct identity. As such, the Day of Asturias is seen as an opportunity to remember and display the Asturian spirit to people from other areas of Spain, as well as the world. The regional government has recognized the day’s importance by declaring the following day after the holiday a public holiday, commonly called the ‘Durmiente.’

Alongside its symbolic value, the Day of Asturias also serves to promote the region’s beautiful natural landscapes and tourist-friendly activities. The day features a diverse range of local celebrations, as well as trips and events for visitors. It is an occasion to sample Asturian cuisine, take advantage of discounts or free admissions in many of the region’s tourist attractions, and learn about the best of Asturian culture.

Traditions and Celebrations

In preparation for the holiday, celebrations begin in the days leading up to the 9th of September. Typical Asturian products such as cabrales cheese, cider, or botillo are shared at mass picnics and dinners throughout the region. An important part of the festivities is the Cider Festival, where Asturian people celebrate with ‘calagorris’—statues adorned with paper flowers and ribbons.

The official celebrations usually take place in the historic Plazas de Ayuntamiento in Oviedo, where the Asturian flag is unfurled. The big day features a speech from the President or Vice President of the Government of Asturias, as well as a parade of official delegations. During the parade, members of the royal guard display their skills in horse riding, swordplay, and hawk training.

Additionally, there are a number of different cultural events held across the region, such as cultural performances, local markets, festivals, and traditional bullfights. Oviedo, the regional capital, is the main hub for festive activities. However, smaller towns also provide their own special day of events such as impromptu concerts and parades.

Geographical Spread

Asturias is situated in the northwest corner of Spain, and borders the autonomous community of Cantabria, as well as the autonomous regions of Galicia and Castile and León. Many of the celebrations take place in the regional capital of Oviedo, with smaller celebrations occurring in cities like Gijon and Avilés. Festivities are even held in the smaller villages, with different ceremonies held across the varying municipalities.

The most popular Asturian festivals usually involve music, dancing, and cider drinking and are found in both coastal and inland villages, such as the town of Tapia and the city of Mieres. Celebrations usually pivot around the main event of the Day of Asturias parade, which is broadcast on regional television networks as part of the festivities.

Modern Day Observations

The Day of Asturias is now looked upon as a tool to bring and unite people around the Asturian culture, traditions, and gastronomy. In modern times, the holiday has become a symbol of solidarity between people across Asturias and with people around the world. There is now an even larger focus on promoting activities related to the environment, nature, and sport.

Due to the current pandemic, many of the traditional day events have been changed or canceled; however, the spirit and essence of the holiday remains the same. Every year, thousands of Asturians participate in traditional events such as the cider festival and the parades, but also in various digital initiatives. From virtual parades to online concerts, Asturians have found novel ways to spread the Asturian spirit, from wherever they may be in the world.

Interesting Facts or Trivia

• The Day of Asturias is traditionally celebrated with a ‘calagorris,’ which is a figure made of paper flowers and ribbons.
• ‘Botillo’ is a popular Asturian delicacy, comprising a stew of various meats and spices, traditionally served on the Day of Asturias.
• The region of Asturias has one of the largest karstic networks in Europe, accounting for 29 percent of the land mass.
• The region is also home to the UNESCO Heritage Site — La Catedral del Mar, an elaborately detailed cathedralFirstly built in the 13th century.
• The region is also a nature lover’s paradise, boasting 48 bird species, six mammal species, two reptile species, four amphibian species, and an impressive variety of flora and fauna.
• The traditional dress of Asturias includes colorful costumes with typically embroidered with complex patterns.

Holiday Wishes

• Happy Day of Asturias!
• Saludos y feliz Día de Asturias.
• ¡Viva el espíritu asturiano!
• Wishing you all the best this Day of Asturias!
• Happy celebrations!

Holiday Messages

• Celebrate the courage and resilience of the Asturian people with pride and joy.
• May the celebrations of the Day of Asturias bring people together in the spirit of unity.
• This day is a great opportunity to discover the rich culture of Asturias.
• Let us celebrate the proud tradition of Asturias with a nod to the past and a glimpse into the future.
• Take this moment to celebrate the beauty and strength of Asturias.

Holiday Quotes

• “In matters of courage, Asturians are second to none.” –Miguel de Cervantes.
• “Asturias! Bravest of the brave!” -Unknown.
• “In Asturias there is an unbroken bond between our land and its people.” -Rafael Catala.
• “We were born to remind history that we are alive.” -Juan Marsé.
• “It is the people of Asturias who own their own destiny.” -Adolfo Suarez.

Other Popular Holiday Info

Asturias is a unique region of Spain known for its stunning landscapes and unique cultural vibrancy. It is a region that values its autonomy, maintaining a distinct and vibrant identity that sets it apart from other regions of Spain. The Day of Asturias is an important part of Asturian culture, providing a moment to celebrate and commemorate all that has made the region great.

The Day of Asturias is celebrated in a variety of ways. While traditional practices are still safeguarded and observed in many respects, there have also been some modern developments in observation of the Day of Asturias. With the shifting needs of the times, the holiday can now foster other forms of Asturian politics, culture, identity, and pride. This holiday is an occasion to look back on the region’s history and look ahead at its future potential. Whether through digital forms of commemoration or activities of solidarity, the Day of Asturias continues to bring people together to share in and celebrate the culture of Asturias.