gigantes

San Isidro Parade: Giants & Bigheads

The Pasacalles Gigantes y Cabezudos (the Giants & Bigheads Parade) consists of eight gigantes, five cabezudos, six kilikis and six zaldikos that traditionally parade and dance in the streets during the festivities of San Fermin in Pamplona, the capital of Navarra. This tradition goes back probably to the sixteenth century, as stated in some publications, but then disappeared and not until the nineteenth century when 6 giants owned by the Cathedral of Pamplona were recovered. Now that tradition has been celebrated for decades in Madrid during the festivities of their Patron Saint of San Isidro. Here is a breakdown of the different figures you will see in the parade:

Giants

Images Source: www.que.es

They are the most famous and ancient figures. There are four pairs of kings representing four parts of the world: Europe, Asia, Africa and America, which are a magnificent symbol of coexistence between cultures. Its stately and elegant clothes, inspired nobility and kindness.

The Big Heads

During the parade, the bigheads proceed behind the giants and are serious because they do not dance. They walk worthy, with an unhurried pace and quiet attitude, which gives them an aura of wisdom and kindness.

Image Source: www.tiempohoy.es

The Kilikis

There are the figures whose heads are smaller than the big heads. They carry a foam stick with which to beat children.

Image Source: www.sanfermin.com

Zaldikos

These are the horses (“zaldiko” means horse in Basque) with their respective riders are dressed as clown. They are also armed with sticks and club kids.

Image Source: raqeliica.wordpress.com

ROUTE

Gigantes y Cabezudos de Madrid: Plaza de Santo Domingo – Preciados – Puerta del Sol – Calle Mayor – Plaza de la Villa

Gigantes y Cabezudos de Pamplona: Plaza de Isabel II – Calle Arenal – Puerta del Sol – Calle Mayor – Plaza de la Villa

WHEN: Thursday, May 12th @ 18h

 

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