In the quaint village of Castrillo de Murcia, Spain, an extraordinary spectacle unfolds each year that leaves visitors both amazed and bewildered. Men dressed as devils, known as El Colacho, leap over rows of babies lying on mattresses in the street. This centuries-old tradition, dating back to 1620, represents one of the world’s most unusual religious festivals.
El Colacho performer leaping over infants during the festival. Credit: National Geographic
The heart-stopping ritual occurs during the annual Catholic feast of Corpus Christi, where these devil-jumpers wearing bright yellow and red costumes take center stage. While parents watch nervously, these skilled performers sprint and jump over their infants, who rest peacefully on white mattresses adorned with flowers and religious symbols. The local community believes this act cleanses the babies of original sin and ensures their protection from illness and evil spirits.
A devil-jumper in traditional yellow and red costume performing the ritual jump. Credit: Wikipedia
Behind this striking spectacle lies a fascinating blend of Catholic doctrine and ancient pagan traditions. The jumpers, playing the role of El Colacho, symbolize the triumph of good over evil in Christian teachings. Throughout the ceremony, these colorful devils also chase and terrorize onlookers with horsetail whips, adding to the festival’s theatrical nature. The ritual showcases how medieval Spanish customs have survived and evolved through centuries of social and political change.
Modern celebrations of El Colacho maintain their traditional essence while incorporating necessary safety measures. The brotherhood of SantÃsimo Sacramento de Minerva carefully organizes the event, ensuring the babies’ well-being remains paramount. Despite drawing international attention and curious tourists, the festival maintains its authentic character through active community participation and dedication to preserving their unique cultural heritage.
The festival’s survival through various historical periods speaks to its deep cultural significance in Spanish tradition. From the Spanish Inquisition through to the modern era, El Colacho has continued to captivate both locals and visitors. Today, this remarkable ceremony stands as a testament to Spain’s rich cultural tapestry, where ancient customs seamlessly blend with contemporary life, creating an unforgettable spectacle that continues to intrigue people worldwide.
References:
National Geographic – El Colacho Baby Jumping Festival – link
Wikipedia – Baby Jumping – link
Spanish Fiestas – Baby Jumping Festival – link
Categories: Cultural Festivals, Do you know, European Folklore, Religious Traditions, Spanish Heritage
Tags: baby jumping, Castrillo de Murcia, Catholic traditions, Cultural Heritage, El Colacho, folk traditions, religious traditions, Spanish customs, Spanish Festivals
Religion: Catholicism
Country of Origin: Spain
Topic: Cultural Festivals
Ethnicity: Spanish
