One of the best-known legends in Spain comes from the region of Catalonia and tells the tale of Saint George and the Dragon.
Long ago, a terrible dragon lived near a small village called Montblanc. The dragon caused fear and destruction, demanding a daily sacrifice to keep it calm. Each day, the villagers had to offer one person to the beast, and finally, it was the turn of the king’s daughter.
Just when all seemed lost, a brave knight named Saint George arrived. He fought the dragon fiercely and finally killed it by plunging his sword into its heart. From the dragon’s blood sprang red roses, which Saint George picked and gave to the princess as a symbol of hope and love.
This legend hasn’t been forgotten. Today, on 23 April, the feast of Saint George is still celebrated.
April 23rd is also International Book Day, and in Barcelona, the streets fill with book stalls, and it’s traditional to give both a book and a rose to friends and loved ones.
The legend is also reflected in the city’s architecture. The most famous example is Gaudí’s Casa Batlló, where the roof is designed to look like the back of a dragon, covered in colourful scales. At one end, a cross represents Saint George’s sword, ready to slay the beast.
