Las Mondas

The pagan roots of this festival in Talavera de la Reina (Toledo) go back to Roman times, to a ritual that worshipped the goddess Ceres, although historically its celebration dates back to the 15th century.

The festivities start on Palm Sunday with the traditional Mondas opening speech round different neighbourhoods. Then there is a cultural week with conferences, exhibitions, concerts, award ceremonies, tasting of typical products, etc. On the following Saturday, there is a great parade round the different streets in Talavera de la Reina, in which many types of dulzaina and folk bands perform, ending in El Prado Basilica with an offering to the Virgin of El Prado, and the Mayor of Talavera exchanges staffs with the guest mayors. A bullfighting festival and many children's activities (craft and theatre workshops, etc.) are also organised in different parts of the town.