The 11th of September, la Diada Nacional de Catalunya commemorates a very important day in Catalan history with demonstrations that represent their culture, pride, and desire for an independent Catalunya. The Diada Nacional de Catalunya is one of three official national symbols. Together with their flag and national hymn this celebration is a defining force for the Catalan society. (For more info on the other symbols see the first two blog entries.)
So how did this holiday come about, and why is it celebrated on September 11th?
Let’s travel back a bit in time, the year is 1714 and Catalonia, a sovereign nation, is caught up in the fighting from the Spanish War of Succession. With the possible unification of France and Spain the Spanish population was divided in an almost civil-war fashion. Those loyal to King Philip V allied with the French supporting unification while the Archduke of Austria, Britain and the Netherlands were fierce opponents of this action fearing that a strong imbalance of power would result from the unification. Eventually Philip V claimed victory and would establish a uniform political system throughout his conquered territories which included Catalonia.
The outstanding event for the Catalan people came during the end of the war during the Siege of Barcelona. The Catalan troops, under the supreme leadership of Rafael Casanova and regular townspeople miraculously resisted Philip V’s forces from taking Barcelona for 14 months. This was no ordinary fight, it was the battle for Catalan independence, to keep a democratic Catalan parliament in power rather than succumb to the absolutism of Philip V’s reign. After a valiant fight and due to dwindling munitions and a great number of casualties, including Rafael Casanova who died in battle, the Catalans were forced to surrender. On September 11th 1714 they lost the battle and along with it their freedom, national rights, and many cultural institutions including the use of the Catalan language.
The day is meant to celebrate the strong Catalan spirit and the community’s heroic resistance in the face danger, in the defense of their independence and freedom. Today the debate over the creation of an independent Catalan nation is stronger than ever. Although not all Catalans are in support of leaving Spain those in favor represent a huge part of the population. The National Day of Catalonia is a widespread event observed throughout the territory though the biggest events take place in Barcelona and include floral offerings to a statue that pays homage to Rafael Casanova, a ceremony in the Parc de la Cuidatella, performances, concerts, readings and countless demonstrations.
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Sources:
Painting: Antoni Tàpies ‘L’esperit català’ 1971- Fundació Antoni Tàpies
“Diada de l’Onze de Septembre 2012” – Generalitat de Catalunya
horitzons macos 