El Colacho

El Colacho is a traditional Spanish festival that dates back to 1620. It is celebrated annually,the Sunday following Corpus Christi, in the town of Castrillo de Murcia, near Burgos in Spain, as part of the Corpus Christi celebrations. The festival is known for its unique and somewhat alarming tradition of “baby jumping” (Salto del Colacho).

During El Colacho, men dressed as the Devil (known as “El Colacho”) run through the streets of the village, leaping over infants who were born in the previous twelve months and who are laid out on mattresses in the street. Along the route, the locals raise altars of flowers. The procession is also made up of the girls who have received their First Communion that year who throw flowers at the lying children.

The processional route begins at the town church (located in the highest part of the town) and continues until returning to the church.

This act is believed to cleanse the babies of original sin, ensure them safe passage through life, and protect them against evil spirits.

The baby jumping is the highlight of the festival, which also includes processions, masses, and other celebrations fitting the religious significance of Corpus Christi. Despite its danger, the event is taken very seriously by the participants and has been celebrated for centuries without any reported injuries to the babies.

El Colacho is a prime example of the diverse and unique festivals celebrated throughout Spain, many of which blend religious traditions with local folklore, creating events that are both deeply spiritual and culturally rich.

Hoe to get to the El Colacho?

Castrillo de Murcia, the small village famous for the El Colacho festival, is located in the province of Burgos, in the autonomous community of Castile and León. Here’s a general guide on how to reach Castrillo de Murcia:

Flying to Spain
The nearest major international airports to Castrillo de Murcia are in Madrid (Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport) and Bilbao (Bilbao Airport). Madrid is approximately 240 kilometers away, making it a feasible entry point for international travelers.

From Madrid or Bilbao
By Car
Renting a car and driving to Castrillo de Murcia offers flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic route. From Madrid, the drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours via the A-1 motorway. From Bilbao, it’s roughly a 2-hour drive, also primarily via the A-1.
By Public Transport
If you prefer public transport, you can take a train or bus to Burgos. Spain’s train network, operated by Renfe, connects Madrid and Bilbao to Burgos. From Burgos, you may need to catch a local bus or arrange for a taxi to Castrillo de Murcia, as direct public transport options might be limited.

In Burgos
Local Transportation
Once in Burgos, inquire locally for the most current and reliable way to reach Castrillo de Murcia. This could be a local bus, taxi, or rideshare. Keep in mind that the frequency of public transport might vary, especially on weekends and holidays.

Accommodation
Since Castrillo de Murcia is a small village, accommodation options are limited, especially during the El Colacho festival,You might consider staying in Burgos or nearby towns, which offer a wider range of lodging choices.

While visiting Castrillo de Murcia for the El Colacho festival, you can also explore the surrounding region of Burgos and the broader area of Castile and León, which is rich in cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

Burgos Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Gothic cathedral is one of Spain’s most beautiful and is known for its stunning architecture and art.

Museum of Human Evolution: Located in Burgos, this museum is dedicated to the Atapuerca archaeological site, which has yielded some of the oldest human remains found in Europe.

The Castle of Burgos: Though largely in ruins, the castle offers fantastic views over the city and insights into its medieval past.

Atapuerca Archaeological Site: Just a short drive from Burgos, this site is crucial for understanding early human history in Europe. Guided tours are available, offering a deep dive into prehistoric human life.

The Way of Saint James (Camino de Santiago): Burgos is a significant stop on this famous pilgrimage route. Even if you’re not walking the Camino, exploring parts of its path in the area can be a rewarding experience.

Wine Tasting in the Ribera del Duero: This wine region is known worldwide for its high-quality red wines. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, making for a perfect day trip.

Covarrubias and Santo Domingo de Silos: These charming medieval towns are near Burgos and offer a glimpse into Spain’s rich history and architecture. Santo Domingo de Silos Abbey is famous for its Romanesque cloister and Gregorian chants.

Natural Parks and Outdoor Activities: The surrounding areas of Burgos offer beautiful natural landscapes perfect for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the outdoors. Sierra de la Demanda and Cañón del Río Lobos Natural Park are notable mentions.