Between March 15 and 19, the city of Valencia smells of gunpowder and partying.
Since the end of February, the Valencian men and women prepare for those days that precede spring in which they live the most awaited moments each year, with the so-called "macrodespertà" and another series of acts that account for everything what will come later
The streets of Valencia are decorated with hundreds of fallas, which are "planted" and admired by locals and visitors until March 19, Saint Joseph's Day, when "la cremà" takes place, at which time These spectacular papier-mâché monuments are devoured by flames, causing great emotion in the spectators. It is this moment full of emotion that is reflected in the stamp issued by Correos.
The fallas are built by the fallas artists and represent scenes that, in a satirical way, deal with current social and political issues.
Along with these sculptures, the other two protagonists of the festivities are gunpowder and music.
The particular and special smell of gunpowder runs through the Valencian streets in the form of firecrackers and pyrotechnic shows full of light and color.
The music, performed by a multitude of bands, puts the most exquisite icing on these celebrations.
One of the most important acts is the Offering of Flowers to the Virgen de los Desamparados, which is celebrated every March 17 and 18 in honor of the patron saint of Valencia. The falleras commissions parade, presided over by the older falleras and their courts, wearing the spectacular regional costumes and accompanied by music bands, through the most central streets, until they reach the Plaza de la Virgen, next to the Cathedral, to deposit bouquets of flowers that make up beautiful tapestries that adorn this space for several days.
In 2016, this festival rooted in our country and known throughout the world, was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
