On April 23rd Catalonia celebrates one of its nicest and most pleasant holidays; the famous and charming day of Sant Jordi (St George’s day).This day has always been closely linked to the literary traditions, and in 1996 UNESCO declared St Jordi as the “International day of the Book”. April 23rd is not only famous for the Sant Jordi legend; it also commemorates the death of two great writers, Miguel de Cervantes and William Shakespeare along with the death of Jorge de Cappadocia (patron of Catalonia) in the year 303.

St Jordi has always been a special occasion in the Catalan calendar and is quite alike to St Valentine’s day regarding the giving of gifts to your loved one. The man usually gives a red rose to the woman and she usually reciprocates by giving the man a book. Nowadays both men and women can receive both gifts as the occasion has somewhat changed to keep up with the times in which we live.

The fact that April 23 has been named World Book Day will help with the promotion and sale of books in all cities in Catalonia all throughout the festival of La Diada. For example, in Barcelona hundreds of book stalls are assembled where people buy all kinds of books and where many famous authors sign their novels for their multitudes of fans.  Many cultural and activities are also held as well as outdoor concerts and all kinds of workshops in which people can participate in this cultural experience.

If you are thinking of coming to Barcelona for el día de Sant Jordi, why not rent Barcelona apartments to enjoy this experience to the full.