In Andalucía, November 1st marks a day of deep-rooted traditions and heartfelt remembrance. On this day we celebrate Dia de los Santos, or All Saints’ Day. It’s a time when families come together in their cherished “campos“. Campos are rustic country homes, that bear witness to generations of shared memories and familial ties.
Families in Andalucia
We have often spoken about the warmth, friendliness and kindness of the Andalusian people, as individuals. We have not, however, featured the Andalusian family. And truly, the Andalusian family is a topic that deserves a moment in the spotlight. Families here, in the South of Spain, have incredibly close and tight knit relationships with one another. Every week they come together, whether it is for lunch, or for a quick coffee on their way before doing errands.
The families tend to be large, which means that suddenly 30 people are all eating from the same table. They all laugh at the same joke in chorus and simultaneously and continuously take care of each other. All the cousins, no matter the age gap, play and speak together as if they were best friends. Interestingly, this is also the reason why close friends in Andalucía call each other primo or prima. Some friendships are so strong that they feel more like family than friends.
Dia de los Santos
This day is celebrated on November 1st. It is a day of connection, a day where families come together. They support each other and bring back memories from the past and stories from their relatives. It is a day of pure mindfulness, where silence plays a calming role. On the Dia de los Santos, homage is paid to the dearly departed. In Andalucia, is is a day that is more than about mourning, it’s about honouring the lives that once graced the family tree. Remembrance blends together with celebration.
One of the enduring customs is the communal gathering around roaring bonfires, where chestnuts crackle and pop, releasing their earthy aroma. Chestnuts, symbolic of the season and the cycle of life, become a central element of the day’s festivities. Families huddle together, recounting tales that have been passed down through generations.
The campos, often nestled amidst sprawling olive groves or overlooking the picturesque Andalusian landscapes, become a sacred space for reflection and connection. The rustic charm of these country homes adds to the authenticity of the experience, creating an environment where the past is not just remembered but celebrated.
The tradition
As the day unfolds, traditional Andalusian dishes take center stage. Families prepare and share recipes that have been guarded and perfected over time. The aroma of slow-cooked stews and rich, flavorful dishes wafts through the air, filling the campos with a sense of abundance and togetherness.
The significance of this tradition lies not only in remembering those who have passed on but also in fostering a sense of continuity. The campos become a living tapestry, weaving together the threads of past, present, and future. Through these customs, Andalucían families affirm their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage and passing it on to the generations yet to come.
Dia de los Santos in Andalucía is a poignant reminder that the bonds of family and tradition will always endure. It’s a celebration of life, love, and the enduring spirit that connects each generation to the next, ensuring that the flame of heritage burns brightly in the country homes of Andalucía.
Do you want to live in Andalucia?
Are you ready to make the big move to Andalucia and start a new life here? Do you want to be a part of all the beautiful customs and traditions celebrated here? We can make it possible! Make sure to contact us via email or telephone, [email protected] or +34 952 89 51 39, respectively. Start browsing through our Andalusian country properties and contact us if you have found the home of your dreams!
Danielle Ernstsen | 31st October 2023
