It is impossible to describe the experience of the San Joan fiesta in Cuitadella. Spectacular, incredible, these words just do not cut the mustard - so a few pictures may help explain...
These black stallions are specially bred near Cuitedella. They have naturally high gloss coats, fabulous eyes, elegant heads, long legs and are powerful, incredibly brave, agile ( they stand on their hind legs and hold the stance) they have nerves of steel - even in these crowds of thousands and thousands they looked pleased to be there. The horsemanship of the riders is evident in the way they ride and perform through the dense crowds without any mishap whatsoever. The horses and riders seem to share a nobility ...It was an absolute honour to be so close to them
This fiesta goes back some 500 years and has links to the Knights Templar.
A quiet space before meeting the crowds waiting to adore them...
After the horses the young men throw young women in the air...
Miguel and Carlos, two of aforementioned 'young men'...
And another girl skyrocketed. Simultaneously people raid hundreds of sacks of hazelnuts placed around town and throw them ( affectionately) at anyone they like. Greatest fun. The whole day people were drinking Pomada - the fiesta drink - of menorcan gin and lemonade but not one fight or menace anywhere.
Mum did you take these pictures? They are AMAZING!
ReplyDelete