Plaça Sant Jaume becomes this year a true epicenter of Christmas in Barcelona, thanks to an innovative proposal that combines tradition and innovation. The installation of a spectacular 20-pointed luminous star, called “Origen”, will be the center of attention in the square, while two nativity scenes, located inside the City Hall and the Palau de la Generalitat, will complement the Christmas decoration. This project, the result of a collaboration between the Barcelona City Council and the Generalitat de Catalunya, promises to offer a unique experience for citizens and visitors alike.
A monumental star as a symbol of perfection
The “Origen” star is not just a decorative piece; it is a work of art that stands out for its design and meaning. Created by Xevi Bayona and Àlex Posada, the star represents an icosahedron, a geometric figure with 20 triangular faces that symbolizes perfection, harmony and balance. This geometric design also evokes universal concepts, such as the germinal moment of the universe, known as the Big Bang, when darkness was transformed into light and energy. With a diameter of nine meters and a weight of 2.5 tons, the star is made of iron, methacrylate and LED technology, which guarantees both its durability and its visual spectacularity. During the day, this work is presented as an imposing geometric sculpture on the side of the square, near Ferran and Call streets. However, it is at nightfall when it unfolds its full potential: it becomes a luminous beacon that projects reflections of light on the facades of the City Hall and the Palau de la Generalitat.
Exploring the Catalan tradition of the Caganer at Christmas time
In addition, the installation features an original soundtrack that adds a sensory component to the show, making the experience even more immersive and captivating.
Two nativity scenes to honor the Christmas tradition
The decoration of Plaça Sant Jaume would not be complete without the traditional nativity scenes, which this year have been moved inside the historic buildings to enrich the visitors’ experience. The Pati de Carruatges of the Town Hall will host the traditional nativity scene, elaborated by the Associació de Pessebristes. This diorama will include references to the centenary of the poet Joan Salvat-Papasseit, who worked at the Moll de la Fusta, and to the recent edition of the America’s Cup sailing competition in Barcelona. The exhibition will be open to the public from November 29 to January 5, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy this emblematic tradition in a unique setting. For its part, the Palau de la Generalitat will open its doors between December 14 and 20 to display its Christmas decorations. Visitors will be able to discover a nativity scene, a tió and decorated trees, set in a style that combines tradition and modernity. This initiative not only encourages the Christmas spirit, but also allows citizens to explore spaces that are usually reserved.
Collaboration between institutions for a special Christmas
The decoration project of Sant Jaume square is the result of a close collaboration between the City Council and the Generalitat, who have worked together to offer a unified and coherent proposal. Both institutions have also shared the same plant ornamentation on the balconies of their buildings, reinforcing the idea of cohesion.
The total cost of the luminous star amounts to 145,000 euros, while the manger of the City Council has meant an additional investment of 50,000 euros. Although the City Council has assumed most of the cost, Councilman Jordi Marcé stressed the importance of this collaboration: “We are grateful that the Generalitat has supported us in an initiative that has always belonged to the City Council. This reinforces the commitment of both institutions to Christmas and to the city of Barcelona.”
A forward-looking facility
The “Origen” star is not conceived as an ephemeral decoration. Both the City Council and the Generalitat have left open the possibility of reusing this monumental piece in future editions, consolidating it as a Christmas symbol of Barcelona. This approach not only seeks to maximize the impact of the investment, but also to establish an emotional link with the citizens, who will be able to enjoy this work year after year.
Controversy and tradition in Sant Jaume
The Christmas decoration of Plaça Sant Jaume has always been the subject of debate, especially around the nativity scenes. The relocation of the nativity scene inside the City Hall and the Generalitat has generated divided opinions, but the institutions have defended the decision as a way to enrich the Christmas experience. According to Marcé, “we relocated the pieces to make the most of the space and offer a more complete artistic proposal.” The luminous star and the two nativity scenes not only seek to beautify the square, but also to reinforce the message of unity and collaboration between the institutions. In addition, the design and location of the star were selected to highlight the iconic character of Sant Jaume as a meeting point between tradition and innovation.
Sant Jaume, the heart of Christmas in Barcelona
With these initiatives, Plaça Sant Jaume is consolidating its position as one of the main points of Christmas interest in Barcelona. The combination of a monumental luminous star, two emblematic nativity scenes and a coherent decoration throughout the square creates a magical environment that invites locals and tourists to immerse themselves in the spirit of the holidays. Sant Jaume is not only a space for celebration, but also a symbol of Barcelona’s ability to combine tradition and modernity, demonstrating that Christmas can be a time to innovate without losing sight of the city’s cultural roots.
