Experience San Isidro Festivities in Madrid Together
Every year, in mid-May, Madrid celebrates the festival of San Isidro with lively shows and music. During this time, the Spanish capital dresses in traditional outfits to honor its Patron Saint, San Isidro Labrador. Moreover, there are countless events and activities for all audiences. The most famous gathering, however, takes place at the Pradera of San Isidro, located in the district of Carabanchel.
Origins of the Celebrations:
According to legend, San Isidro Labrador caused a spring with healing powers to emerge by striking a rock with his rod while working in the fields of his employer, Ivan de Vargas.
As a result, the hermitage of San Isidro was built on that very spot in Carabanchel. Nowadays, many faithful make pilgrimages to drink water from this spring, especially during May.
Interestingly, the legend also tells that even Emperor Carlos V and King Felipe II were cured of severe fevers by drinking water from the fountain.
Tradition and local identity :
These local festivities reflect the social structure and cultural identity of Madrid. The San Isidro celebration mainly involves going to the prairie to enjoy traditional rosquillas de anís (anise pastries) and drinking water from the hermitage’s spring.
There are four types of rosquillas to choose from: the “smart ones” (with egg and covered in sugar glaze), the “foolish ones” (with egg), French-style (with almonds), and Santa Clara (with a layer of white meringue).
Madrilenian lemonade typically contains chopped fruit (usually apple), sugar, lemon, and wine, which gives it a special touch.
Many Madrilenians and visitors alike dress in traditional Chulapo and Chulapa costumes, typical of Madrid since the late nineteenth century.
Chulapas y chulapos
The chulapas:
They wear their hair in a bun and a dress that fits above the knee with a half-layered skirt that covers the ankle. Their dresses usually feature polka dots but can also be plain, plaid, or printed. Accessories include a handkerchief over the head, tied around the neck with two red carnations, and a Manila shawl with many fringes.
The Chulapos:
They wear a short vest with a red carnation on the lapel, dark tight pants, a cap with small black squares, and a white neckerchief.
Did you know ?
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San Isidro is a Catholic saint born in Madrid in 1082.
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He spent much of his life in Caraquiz (in the province of Guadalajara), dedicating himself to farming.
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He died at age 90 in Madrid, in 1172.
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He is considered the patron saint of farmers and peasants and is invoked to bring rain and ensure a good harvest.
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Since April 14, 1619, San Isidro has been the patron saint of Madrid, following Pope Paul V’s decree of beatification.
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The traditional dance of Madrid is the chotis. You can learn how to dance it here: Chotis Dance Video
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