Festival of the Cuadrillas in Barranda
On the last Sunday in January you can venture to Barranda, a beautiful town where you can enjoy the meeting of the "Cuadrillas" which takes place in the streets of the town, where you can dance in total freedom to the sound of music.
What does the Fiesta de las Cuadrillas consist of?
The Fiesta de las Cuadrillas in Barranda is a traditional music festival that takes place on the last Sunday in January, and is known as the second oldest traditional music festival in the southeast of the peninsula. The first is the one in the city of Lorca.
The cuadrillas de aguilando, animeros or Pascua, consist of musical ensembles from different localities of the country that are located in different areas of the streets and squares to perform their songs.
In the afternoon, what is known as "choque de cuadrilla" takes place, in which two groups perform simultaneously challenging each other, as if it were a musical fight, which is great fun. At the end of the day, the Fiesta de Cuadrillas becomes a modern social event, with music and dancing, which can go on for hours.
Origin of the Fiesta de las Cuadrillas in Barranda
The origin of the Fiesta de las Cuadrillas in Barranda goes back to 1979, when the Parish Priest Ramón García and the Maestro Jesús María García decided to carry out the then known as Festival Comarcal de Música de Cuerda (Regional String Music Festival).
This festival was promoted by the mayordomos of the fiestas, who were also in charge of organising the patron saint's festivities, which is why the festival had the protection of the Local Festivities of the Virgen de la Candelaria, patron saint of Barranda.
Shortly afterwards, support began to come from various institutions, both municipal and regional, to maintain this celebration. But, without a doubt, the main driving force that has managed to keep this festival alive has been the enthusiasm of the inhabitants of Barranda.
What to visit in Barranda?
Take advantage of the Fiesta de las Cuadrillas in Barranda to get to know this town and its customs a little better, and these are some of the places you should visit.
- Museum of Ethnic Music - Blanco Fadol Collection. Here you will find a magnificent collection of musical instruments from 145 countries, which have been collected since the 1970s, giving you access to cultures from all over the world.
- Ermita de la Purificación Church. Also known as the Church of Candelaria de Barranda. It is a church that dates back to the 17th century, and nowadays it has several oil paintings that are sure to catch your attention.
What to Eat in Caravaca de la Cruz
As in every locality, Barranda offers delicious typical dishes, with a special emphasis on traditional dishes from the Region of Murcia. Here are some recommendations that you will find very appetizing during your visit to the Fiesta de las Cuadrillas.
- Zarangollo: A dish made with zucchini and onions, scrambled with egg. Some people add eggplant to it.
- Meat pie: This is a thin, crispy puff pastry filled with minced beef and chorizo, with hard-boiled egg and spices. A very simple way to be well-fed.
- Paparajotes: This is the most typical dessert in the area, consisting of lemon tree leaves coated in fritter batter, sprinkled with a bit of sugar and cinnamon.
- Rice dishes: The Region of Murcia is famous for its delicious rice dishes. You can try paella, rabbit and snail rice, or seafood rice.
- Migas: Migas are a traditional dish in the region. They are made with crumbled bread and accompanied by various ingredients such as chorizo, bacon, or grapes.
- Murcian salads: Fresh salads with regional products are a healthy and delicious option. Look for salads that include tomatoes, peppers, onions, and olives.
- Caravaca Cake: For dessert, try the typical cake of the area, which usually contains almonds and honey.
- Local sausages: Try regional sausages such as black pudding, chorizo, or longaniza. They are tasty and reflect the gastronomic tradition of the area.
- Regional wines: Accompany your meal with local wines from the Region of Murcia. The Jumilla designation of origin is famous in this area.
- Cheeses: The region also produces excellent cheeses. Ask for local cheeses to complement your gastronomic experience.
Remember that the best way to discover local cuisine is to explore local restaurants and bars, where you can find authentic dishes and experience the hospitality of the area.
