Barcelona's Barceloneta and Raval districts were filled with music, parades and local pride this weekend as the annual Cors Muts festival returned to the city. The event, held over the Second Easter long weekend, celebrates the maritime and working-class heritage of both neighbourhoods.
About 20 troupes took part in the parade, which moved through the streets with wooden elements and instruments. The festival remains one of the more distinctive dates in Barcelona's cultural calendar, drawing residents and visitors who want to see a tradition rooted in the city's older neighbourhoods.
One participant said there is a lot of nostalgia and many memories attached to the event, adding that they had taken part for 50 years. Another recalled joining from a very young age, saying the tradition has been in their family for generations.
The official Cors Muts page says the festival has deep local roots. It was once made up only of men, but it has changed over time and now includes some all-women groups. The tradition is passed from parents to children and remains closely tied to neighbourhood identity.
Barceloneta was originally built for residents displaced by the construction of the Ciutadella fortress, and later developed as a fishing and industrial area. Raval is one of Barcelona's oldest neighbourhoods and has long been known for its working-class roots and community life. For readers following more local coverage, see our community and sport pages.
The festival continues on Monday, 25 May, with a second parade along the same route through Barceloneta and Raval. The evening will also include fire shows, with the celebrations set to run late into the night.
Originally published by betevé. Read original article.
