When did the Day of Saint Tecla in Spain start?
About Day of Saint Tecla in Spain Holiday
The Day of Saint Tecla is an important holiday in Spain celebrated annually on September 23rd. It is a day that honors the life and legacy of Saint Tecla, a young martyr who died during the 4th century Roman occupation of Spain.
On this special day, people in Spain commemorate St. Tecla with an elaborate celebration that includes parades and performances of traditional dances. In the city of Barcelona, devotees of the saint gather in the basilica of Santa Tecla to celebrate the day with the singing of hymns and processions. In other cities, fireworks, firework-sets and a great feast are offerings to the memory of St Tecla.
The holiday is a time for reflection and a reminder to Spanish citizens of St Tecla's strong faith and courage. It is both a day of remembrance and of celebration, as family and friends share in the joy of St Tecla's life and in the freedom she gave to the people of Spain. Whether you find yourself in a crowded basilica or at a large gathering in the city, the Day of Saint Tecla is a festive day that celebrates pride in Spain and in its rich history.
History and Origin of Day of Saint Tecla in Spain
The Day of Saint Tecla is an observance celebrated on September 23rd in Spain. It commemorates Saint Tecla, a Roman virgin martyr who lived in the 3rd century. Her day of death is the day her feast is celebrated. Saint Tecla is also celebrated in certain parts of Italy, particularly in the regions of Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna.
Saint Tecla is said to have been born in Antioch, Syria around 229 A.D. according to tradition. Her full name is said to have been “Thecla” (or “Tecla” in Spanish). Her parents, however, have remained anonymous. She was brought up a Christian but chose to remain a virgin despite heavy pressure to marry.
At some point, Saint Tecla then moved to Seleucia (in modern-day Turkey), where she lived in a cave. Here, she was visited by the Apostle Paul who was preaching to the people about the new Christian religion. Upon hearing his words, she was so inspired that she gave away her possessions and decided to devote her life to Jesus.
From Seleucia, Tecla moved on to Iconium (also in modern-day Turkey) to spread the gospel. She ultimately travelled to Roman-controlled Spain, and this is where she met her end. It is said that she was martyred at the hands of Roman soldiers, possibly during the Christian persecution for her faith.
In the centuries since, her martyrdom has been celebrated and memorialised in churches throughout Spain. It was in 1585 that Pope St. Sixtus V declared the entire day of September 23rd as “The Day of Saint Tecla”.
Significance and Meaning of Day of Saint Tecla in Spain
The Day of Saint Tecla is especially important for Spanish Catholics as it commemorates the heroic life and martyrdom of Saint Tecla as well as celebrates her remarkable courage and virtue. It is regarded as a significant religious holiday and is celebrated with special ceremonies, processions, and prayers.
The anniversary of Saint Tecla’s martyrdom is also seen as a day of celebration for those who follow her example. People are especially encouraged to live by her brave example and to not be afraid of standing up for what they believe in, regardless of the consequences.
Traditions and Celebrations of Day of Saint Tecla in Spain
The Day of Saint Tecla is celebrated with a variety of events and traditions. On the day itself, many churches offer special services to commemorate the saint’s martyrdom.
The celebration of Munich, Germany is especially noteworthy. On this day, an annual procession is held in which more than 600 participants process through the streets of Munich, dressed in eighteenth-century costumes from Bavaria. At the end of the procession, the roasted leg of a baby lamb is eaten as part of the celebration.
In other parts of Spain, the Day of Saint Tecla is typically celebrated with processions, festivals, and performances of traditional music and dance. The celebration of the holiday often goes on late into the night.
In some regions, people also take part in sporting competitions. These include running races and the carrying of heavy stones. Other events, such as barbecues and fireworks, often accompany the celebration.
Geographical Spread of Day of Saint Tecla in Spain
The Day of Saint Tecla is prominently celebrated in Spain, particularly in the areas along the Mediterranean Coast. It is particularly popular in Catalonia, as well as in the Basque Country, Valencia, Castile and La Mancha, and Andalusia.
However, celebrations of the holiday are also held in some other parts of Europe: cities such as Milan, Rome, Genoa, Barcelona, and Munich. Individuals of Spanish descent also celebrate this holiday in places such as the United States and Mexico.
In some areas such as Valencia, there is also a tradition of offering up artworks to Saint Tecla. These offerings are usually put on display in the local parish for the day.
In certain parts of Spain, such as Galicia, the celebration of the Day of Saint Tecla is combined with a smaller festival dedicated to Saint Tecla. This usually takes place at the beginning of September and involves devotional acts and processions.
Modern Day Observations of Day of Saint Tecla in Spain
The Day of Saint Tecla continues to be celebrated with many of the same traditions that have been carried on for centuries. There has been a recent trend, however, to modernise the observance of the holiday by incorporating some new activities.
One of the most popular modern customs is to take pictures of the celebration and share them on social media. This has become increasingly popular among young people in Spain.
Another modern activity is to hold special competitions related to the Day of Saint Tecla. These include writing contests, singing contests, and art competitions where the contestants have to create artwork inspired by Saint Tecla.
Similarly, there has been an increase in other activities related to the holiday such as exhibitions, conferences, and lectures. These events are usually held in the days leading up to the main day of observance.
Interesting Facts or Trivia of Day of Saint Tecla in Spain
-Saint Tecla is the patron saint of Barcelona, Spain.
-She is also the secondary patron saint of Rome, and is recognised for protecting the country from contagious diseases.
-Her feast day is celebrated throughout Europe on September 23rd.
-In 1585, Pope Sixtus V declared the entire day of September 23rd as “The Day of Saint Tecla”.
-In certain areas of Italy, it is traditional to eat the roasted leg of a baby lamb on the day of her feast.
-In the Spanish city of Valencia, it is customary to offer up artworks to Saint Tecla.
-In some parts of Spain, the celebration of the Day of Saint Tecla is combined with a minor festival dedicated to the saint.
-In recent years, social media has been used to modernise the observance of the Day of Saint Tecla.
Holiday Wishes for Day of Saint Tecla in Spain
1. Wishing you a blessed Day of Saint Tecla!
2. May your faith and courage be strengthened on this day!
3. May you be inspired by Saint Tecla and stand up for what you believe in!
4. Best wishes on the Day of Saint Tecla!
5. May the spirit of Saint Tecla fill your heart and home this day!
Holiday Messages for Day of Saint Tecla in Spain
1. This Day of Saint Tecla, remember to be brave and follow your dreams!
2. Let us honor the memory of Saint Tecla and live by her example.
3. Let us all remember that courage comes in many forms on the Day of Saint Tecla.
4. May this day help us to be inspired by Saint Tecla’s strength and virtue!
5. Let us all breathe in the spirit of courage and faith on the Day of Saint Tecla!
Holiday Quotes for Day of Saint Tecla in Spain
1. “Be courageous in your faith; do not be frightened.” – Saint Tecla
2. “Be brave and be daring, let no risk be too great!” – Saint Tecla
3. “Let your spirit soar and break free of all fear!” – Saint Tecla
4. “Don’t fear the future, for God will always be with you.” – Saint Tecla
5. “Take courage, be brave, and trust the Lord on this Day of Saint Tecla.” – Saint Tecla
Other Popular Holiday Info of Day of Saint Tecla in Spain
In the days leading up to the Day of Saint Tecla, some churches offer a special novena. This is a nine-day prayer dedicated to Saint Tecla where special prayers are said on each day.
The holiday is also known to be celebrated with a popular dish called “Cocas de Santa Tecla”. This is a type of cake that is said to use ingredients that are traditionally associated with Saint Tecla such as almonds, honey, and sugar.
Finally, the Day of Saint Tecla is also known for its traditional activities that involve carrying a “Virgen Blanca” (“White Virgin”) doll from house to house. The doll itself is made from cardboard or wood and is typically decorated with ribbons and flowers. During the event, the doll is passed from one person to the next in the attempt to fill it with coins. This “Virgen Blanca” is then taken to the local church to be blessed, after which the collected coins are distributed to charitable causes.
Day of Saint Tecla in Spain Also Called
La Fiesta de Santa Tecla.
FUN FACT:
In year 1864, Day of Saint Tecla in Spain is celebrated on September 23 for the first time.HOLIDAY CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, please click here to contact us!