Forget about boring nativity scenes—here in Catalonia, we spice things up with a little humor and… a lot of personality! Meet the Caganer, literally the “crapper.” Yes, you read that right. This charming little figure is squatting in the nativity scene, busy contributing to the fertility of the land. 🌱✨
Traditionally, the Caganer is a farmer wearing a red Catalan hat (the barretina), often caught mid-business while reading a newspaper or puffing a pipe. Sometimes there’s even a curious piglet sniffing around! 🐷
But wait, there’s more! Each year, famous people are immortalized as Caganers. Footballers, politicians, singers—even the Pope—have all “joined the ranks.” Being turned into a Caganer is practically a badge of honor in Catalonia! 👑💩
So, why the Caganer? 🤷♀️ Some say it’s a symbol of fertility and prosperity, ensuring a fruitful and fortunate year ahead. Others argue it’s just a cheeky reminder of life’s down-to-earth realities. Either way, this tradition dates back to the 17th century and is now a collector’s dream.
A nativity scene without a Caganer? In Catalonia, that’s unthinkable! 😄
