Bell Ringers' Gathering in western Catalonia celebrates local tradition

Os de Balaguer, near Lleida, became the center of the bell-ringing world during the 38th Bell Ringers' Gathering on Sunday, which brought around 100 participants from across Catalonia and other parts of Spain such as Hueca, Badajoz and León.

Mayor Estefania Rufach said the event reflects how "bell towers have always been at the service of the people," adding she was pleased to host the gathering in a festive, fair-like atmosphere.

Throughout the day, visiting bell ringers climbed the town's tower to perform manual peals, turning the gathering into a continuous showcase of the traditional craft.

This year's highlight, a special peal, was dedicated to Ignasi Cortés, a key figure in preserving the practice locally. 

Cortés, who rang bells for more than four decades, was described as "the soul of the gathering," with fellow young bell ringer Abel Mora highlighting his role in introducing the tradition to younger generations.

Beyond the tribute, dozens of participants performed their own peals, dedicating them to causes from wildfire prevention and forest conservation to memorials for deceased newborns. 

Maria Lluïsa López, marking 25 years in the practice, offered a tribute to those who first taught her. She said her interest began simply by hearing bells and wanting to learn.

Despite the increasing automation of bell towers, interest in manual ringing is growing. Xavier Pallàs, director of the Vall d'en Bas School of Bell Ringers, said demand for training has risen, with students from across Catalonia helping bring historic towers back to life in areas such as La Garrotxa, in north-east Catalonia.

The school has also documented historic bells across several counties, uncovering pieces dating back to the medieval period, considered to have significant artistic and cultural value.