Vilapicina and Santa Eulàlia, a longstanding connection

On Saturday 3 February, as part of the St Eulalia Festivities, the Colla Gegantera de Nou Barris will be once again performing their music and dance show, “Santa Eulàlia de Vilapicina, the forgotten neighbourhood”. The show is based on the history of the ancient village of Santa Eulàlia, from Roman times to today, where this corner of Nou Barris is now the oldest part of the district.

The show consists of a theatrical comic strip, weaving together scenes through the common thread of popular culture. These scenes depict significant moments in the history of Santa Eulàlia de Vilapicina. Interconnected with the history of the co-patron saint of the city and elements of popular culture from Barcelona and Catalonia, the portrayal is brought to life through music and dance.

The performance will be proceeded by a musical procession starting from Plaça Santa Eulàlia, a square named in honour of the patron saint, located within the Nou Barris district boundaries. This procession will pass some prominent sites on Nou Barris’ streets that bear witness to the patron saint, such as the Santa Eulàlia parish church and sanctuary, before ending its route along the old royal road in the square, Plaça de Can Basté. Following the procession, the customary “aspes de Santa Eulàlia” will be handed out. This is a cross-shaped brioche that will have been made by the Forn del Padró, a bakery with deep roots in the neighbourhood and situated in Plaça de Can Basté.

On 12 February, St Eulalia’s Day, the Nou Barris giants will be taking part in the St Eulalia Solemn Mass at the Santa Eulàlia de Vilapicina Parish Church, at 7.30 pm.