The project ‘Cultures Trobades’ has already avoided the extinction of 300 varieties of seeds, 50 ancient vineyards and the last living specimens of the Catalan goats. The initiative aims to preserve traditional Catalan agriculture, "the country's cultural heritage."
The neighbourhood of Gràcia launches into its week long festival, with its famous decorations occupying streets and squares throughout the area. The CNA talked to residents of Carrer de Progrés about their 'Intergalactic' themed street.
The Castellers de Vilfranca, a group of Catalan tower-makers, will go to Mumbai to show-off their human towers that have earned them an international reputation. In addition, they will also get a first hand experience from a similar Indian tradition and discover new techniques. Catalan human towers have been declared a masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Bakers expect a 5% drop in the sale of cakes due to the economic crisis. Families have chosen smaller and cheaper sweets to celebrate the night, while the tradition of setting off firecrackers appears to be as strong as ever
Catalan tradition dictates godfathers to offer a “Mona de Pasqua” to their godsons or goddaughters for Easter Monday. The cake goes with a chocolate sculpture or figurine, which in some cases are true masterpieces. Chocolate houses, chocolate trains or popular cartoons made out of chocolate are some of the creations that top the cake. Catalan patissiers expect to sell 660,000 “mones” this year, although smaller ones due to the economic slowdown.