In the picturesque Christmas markets of Barcelona, among the usual representations of the season and the classic characters, a peculiar and unique figure emerges: the Caganer. This character, which may come as a surprise to those unfamiliar with Catalan tradition, is an essential part of Christmas nativity scenes in the region.
The caganer is a small peasant dressed in traditional attire: dark pants, light shirt, sash and red barretina. So far, it seems quite conventional, but the peculiarity lies in the fact that the figure has its butt in the air and is represented defecating, sometimes even performing other activities such as smoking or reading a newspaper.
Marc-Ignasi, member of the Association of Friends of the Caganer, explains that this figure is a deep-rooted tradition that reflects in a humorous way the Catalan idiosyncrasy.
Although the tradition has its roots, in part, in pagan culture and symbolism related to fertility, it also serves as a playful way to counteract the solemnity of the representation of the birth of Jesus.
The Caganer in the manger
The Caganer is strategically placed in the manger, often behind a haystack or other semi-hidden place. Placing it in a place visible from the nativity cave or in front of those who worship Jesus would be considered disrespectful. In this way, finding the caganer becomes a game during visits to the houses, since the figure is usually hidden.
The figure of the Caganer has multiple interpretations. Some relate it to ancient pagan traditions, while others see it as a symbol of fertility, as the excrement in the field becomes fertilizer.
Moreover, it is interpreted from a carnivalesque and protest point of view, demystifying the birth of Jesus and recalling the shared humanity of all, including divine figures.
Although the Caganer is a tradition rooted in Catalonia, its popularity has transcended borders. Marc-Ignasi says that the Association of Friends of the Caganer has members from several countries interested in this peculiar figure.
However, it is not always understood outside of Catalonia, as evidenced by the case of an American who set up an exhibition of caganers in his restaurant and had to dismantle it because people did not understand the tradition.
The celebrities in Caganer version
Today, the Caganer has experienced a renaissance with the creation of versions representing famous characters, from sports figures such as Leo Messi to cultural icons such as Harry Potter and Yoda. Even personalized services are offered, where artisans create caganers with the face of a specific person.
Thus, the Caganer, with its unique blend of humor, tradition and symbolism, continues to be a distinctive expression of the rich Catalan culture, transcending geographical and cultural barriers.
