New Year’s Eve and Happy New Year

From: The Bellesguard Team

The settlement of Bellesguard is very ancient. Archaeological remains trace it back, at least, to Roman times. Consequently, this land, located between the sea and the mountains, has witnessed many New Year transitions, each with its own beliefs and traditions.

During the early centuries of Christianity, the beginning of the year varied from one kingdom to another. For some, it was to be March 25, the day of the Annunciation, since it marked when Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit; for others, December 25, the day of Jesus’ birth, or Easter Sunday. The tradition of celebrating New Year’s Day on January 1 in all Catholic kingdoms was not established until 1582, with the introduction of the Gregorian calendar, which is still in use today in the West.

In 1400, the year when Martin I the Humane began residing in the old Bellesguard castle, the trend in Catalonia, as in the rest of the Crown of Aragon, was to celebrate the start of the year on “the Holy Christmas Day,” that is, December 25. This decision was made by Peter IV the Ceremonious, father of Martin I. Since then, the Christmas and New Year period has evolved, eventually adopting the appearance and customs we know today (to learn more, visit this link: 2000 Years of New Years).

As you can see, a visit to the Bellesguard Tower is always a journey through time—a journey we invite you to take with us, together. We look forward to welcoming you in the final days of the year that is ending and throughout the one that is about to begin.

On behalf of the entire Bellesguard Tower Team, Happy New Year!!!