The History of Barcelona’s La Mercè Festival
Barcelona wouldn’t be Barcelona without La Mercè. Every September, the city transforms into a spectacle of light, music, tradition, and joy. But did you know that this festival has centuries of history and an origin deeply linked to faith and the protection of the city?
Today we’ll tell you all about the history of La Mercè: from medieval miracles to concerts in the squares, from processions to castellers touching the sky.
Who is La Mercè?
La Mercè is the patron saint of Barcelona. Her full name is Our Lady of Mercy (in Catalan, Mare de Déu de la Mercè).
The devotion to La Mercè has its origins in the 13th century when, according to legend, the Virgin appeared simultaneously to three illustrious people: Saint Peter Nolasco, Saint Raymond of Penyafort, and King James I of Aragon. In this apparition, she asked them to found a religious order dedicated to rescuing Christian captives from Muslim hands: the Order of Mercy.
But it wasn’t until several centuries later that La Mercè was consolidated as the protector of Barcelona.
How did the Festival of La Mercè begin?
In 1687, Barcelona suffered a devastating plague of locusts. Desperate, the people of Barcelona asked for the intercession of the Virgin of Mercy. According to tradition, after entrusting themselves to her, the plague miraculously ceased.
In gratitude, the Consell de Cent (the former municipal government) named La Mercè as the official patron saint of the city. However, this title was not ratified by the Pope until 1868, when Pope Pius IX made it official.
Since then, every September, Barcelona honors its patron saint with celebrations that have evolved over the centuries, from religious acts to one of the most important popular festivals in Europe.
When is La Mercè celebrated?
La Mercè is officially celebrated on September 24.
However, activities usually extend for several days, with a program of events covering almost the entire third week of September.
It’s a magical time in Barcelona: summer still lingers, but the freshness of autumn can be felt, and the entire city vibrates with concerts, street performances, and centuries-old traditions.
Emblematic Traditions and Activities of La Mercè
1. The Proclamation
The festival kicks off with the proclamation from the Saló de Cent of the City Hall. Each year, a personality from the world of culture or society gives a speech that marks the official start of the celebrations.
2. The Castellers
The castellers are impressive human towers, a symbol of Catalan strength, balance, and team spirit. During La Mercè, special castell days are held in Plaça de Sant Jaume.
📍 Don’t miss the moment when the children (enxanetes) crown the towers.
3. The Correfoc
One of the most spectacular and adrenaline-pumping activities. Groups of “devils” and fire beasts parade through the streets shooting sparks and firecrackers in a controlled chaos of light and sound.
📍 Tip: Wear cotton clothing and cover yourself well if you want to experience the correfoc up close!
4. La Cavalcada de La Mercè
A parade full of giants, big heads, and mythical figures from Catalan tradition.
5. Free Concerts and Performances
Barcelona’s squares—like Plaça Catalunya, Plaça dels Àngels, or Parc del Fòrum—fill up with music, dance, and street arts of all styles.
Each edition includes both emerging artists and big international names.
6. Piromusical at Montjuïc
To close the festival, the Piromusical is held, a fireworks display synchronized with music in front of the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. An unforgettable grand finale!
La Mercè Today: Tradition and Modernity
The wonderful thing about La Mercè is how Barcelona has managed to maintain its roots while opening up to the world.
Today, La Mercè also includes:
- The Guest City: Each year, another city from around the world is invited to share its culture in the program of activities.
- Sustainability Programs: Mindful of the environment, respectful activities and greener events are promoted.
- Accessibility: Work is done to ensure that all people can enjoy the celebrations.
Fact:
👉 In recent years, over 1.5 million people have participated in La Mercè activities.
Why shouldn’t you miss La Mercè if you’re visiting Barcelona?
- You’ll see the city at its peak of joy and pride.
- You’ll discover authentic traditions that aren’t experienced the same way anywhere else.
- You can enjoy hundreds of free outdoor activities.
- You’ll feel Barcelona’s hospitality in every corner.
Tip:
Plan your trip in advance, as hotels and transportation tend to fill up quickly during these dates.
La Mercè: More Than a Festival, a Heartbeat of Barcelona
La Mercè is not just a celebration: it’s a tribute to the soul of Barcelona, its history, culture, and people.
Every September, the city remembers that it’s alive, creative, proud of its past and open to the future.
And if you’re lucky enough to experience it… you’ll carry it in your heart forever.
