Description
Castellera Encyclopedia. History I: from the antecedents to 1939
Book summary
This first volume of the Castellera Encyclopedia offers an exhaustive and rigorous journey through the origins and evolution of the "castells" (human towers), from their historical antecedents to the end of the Spanish Civil War. The reader will discover the splendor of the First Golden Age, with the achievement of the nine-story towers, the subsequent Decadence, and the hopeful Renaissance initiated in 1926. A reference work, written by the best specialists, which incorporates the latest research findings on the most controversial "castells nets" (clean towers) of the 19th century and the possibility of a ten-story tower.
What is it about?
This book addresses the history of the "castells" from a chronological and analytical perspective. It delves into the antecedents of the "castellera" tradition, describes its origins, and follows its evolution up to 1939. It details key moments, such as the splendid First Golden Age, marked by the achievement of the nine-story towers, and the subsequent Decadence that jeopardized the continuity of the practice. The work also analyzes the "castellera" Renaissance, which began in 1926 and revitalized the tradition. In addition, the volume includes a state-of-the-art report on the most controversial "castells nets" of the 19th century and debates the historical possibility that a ten-story tower was attempted or completed, while incorporating the latest research.
Main themes
- Origins and historical antecedents of the "castellera" tradition.
- Analysis of the First Golden Age and the achievement of nine-story towers.
- Study of the Decadence and its causes.
- The "castellera" Renaissance starting from 1926.
- Historiographical debate on the 19th-century "castells nets" and the possibility of a ten-story tower.
- Incorporation of the latest research and documentary findings.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is recommended for scholars, enthusiasts, and members of the "casteller" world who want to deepen their historical knowledge of their tradition. It is also ideal for historians, researchers of Catalan popular culture, and any reader interested in understanding the evolution of one of the most emblematic symbols of Catalan culture.
What does this book contribute?
- A complete and updated vision of the history of the "castells" up to 1939.
- First-hand information thanks to the collaboration of the best specialists in each field.
- A rigorous debate on controversial historical issues.
- Access to the latest developments in "castellera" historical research.
Technical data
- Author: Various Authors
- Publisher: Cossetània Edicions
- Language: cat
- Subject: ENCYCLOPEDIAS AND REFERENCE WORKS, POPULAR CULTURE
- Collection: CASTELLERA ENCYCLOPEDIA
- Binding: Hardcover
- Date of publication: December 2017
- Number of pages: 272
- Weight: 500 g
Editorial review
A fundamental work for anyone who wants to know the history of the "castells" in depth. Its multidisciplinary approach and the participation of consolidated specialists guarantee reliable and updated content. Especially valuable for readers who seek to go beyond general dissemination and access a quality historiographical debate on the origins and evolution of this tradition.