Sant Jordi in Barcelona: a complete guide to the roses, books, and tradition

Sant Jordi, or Saint George, holds a special place in Catalonia’s heart. It’s not just a celebration of love, but a day filled with history, patriotism, and local traditions. Much like Valentine’s Day in other parts of the world, Sant Jordi is a day of giving – but with a unique twist. Roses and books are exchanged, making it a day that celebrates both love and culture. Whether you're a local or a visitor in Barcelona, this vibrant festival is one you don’t want to miss. Let’s dive into its history, modern-day celebrations, and where you can get the best roses and books to take part in this iconic Catalan tradition.

The legend of Sant Jordi

Sant Jordi’s origins trace back to a Roman soldier who lived in the 3rd century. The legend tells that Saint George defied the Roman Empire’s persecution of Christians and met a tragic end as a martyr. However, the Catalan version of the tale has a bit more flair. According to the legend, a dragon had been terrorizing the region, devouring young women to satisfy its hunger. When the dragon set its sights on the princess, Sant Jordi fought and slew the beast. As the dragon’s blood spilled, a red rose bloomed from the ground. In a gesture of heroism, Sant Jordi presented the rose to the princess – a symbol of both love and victory.

How Sant Jordi is Celebrated Today

While dragons and damsels in distress may belong to the past, Sant Jordi’s tradition is very much alive. The once simple ritual of exchanging a rose for a book has evolved into a larger cultural celebration. Today, men traditionally give women roses, but the exchange is no longer confined to couples. Friends, family, and even coworkers take part in this day of gifting. People of all genders exchange books and roses, making it a celebration of both love and literature.

On Sant Jordi, the streets of Barcelona come alive with bookstalls and flower stands, especially along Las Ramblas. Couples, families, and visitors stroll through the city, exchanging gifts and celebrating their love of culture. The day is also marked by patriotic flair, as roses and other festive items are wrapped in the red and yellow of the Catalan flag. You can even try the traditional Pa de Sant Jordi – a special sweetbread – adding to the festive atmosphere.

Where to Get the Best Roses and Books for Sant Jordi

For Roses

• Colvin, thecolvinco.com

Colvin is a popular flower delivery service offering beautifully curated arrangements for various occasions, including Sant Jordi. Known for its fresh flowers and high-quality designs, Colvin follows a "farm to table" approach, ensuring that every bouquet is not only visually stunning but also sustainably sourced. You can easily order roses for Sant Jordi online and have them delivered directly to your door in Barcelona, making it a convenient choice for both locals and visitors.

• Au Nom de la Rose

  • District: Eixample

  • Location: Carrer de Pau Claris, 163

Au Nom de la Rose is a renowned florist located in the heart of Barcelona, specializing in creating elegant floral arrangements for special occasions. With its Parisian-inspired aesthetic, this charming shop offers a wide variety of roses, making it the perfect place to pick up a beautiful bouquet for Sant Jordi. Au Nom de la Rose is located in the Eixample district, just a short stroll from Plaça de Catalunya.

For Books

Come in Bookstore

• District: Eixample

• Location: Carrer de Pau Claris, 59

If you're on the hunt for books in English, Come In is your go-to destination. They offer a wide selection of English titles, perfect for picking out the ideal book to exchange for a rose.

Altaïr

• District: Eixample

• Location: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 616

For something unique, visit Altaïr, a bookstore specializing in travel books. This vintage-inspired shop near Plaza Catalunya has an impressive collection for those interested in exploring the world through literature.

For Sweets

El Forn del Passeig

• District: Eixample

• Location: Passeig de Sant Joan, 6

No Sant Jordi celebration is complete without indulging in the sweetbreads and pastries that accompany the holiday. El Forn del Passeig is known for making the best Pa de Sant Jordi, a delicious bread that is traditionally colored in red and yellow to match the Catalan flag. Don’t miss it!

Forn Mistral

• District: Eixample

• Location: Carrer de Provença, 279

Forn Mistral is a beloved bakery known for its wide selection of traditional Catalan pastries, including their famous Sant Jordi bread. The bakery's artisanal creations make it a top choice during the Sant Jordi celebrations.

On Sant Jordi, Barcelona transforms into a city of love, culture, and colorful festivities. Whether you’re picking out a rose for a loved one, exchanging books with friends, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, this tradition is a wonderful way to experience the heart of Catalan culture. Ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Sant Jordi while exploring the beauty of Barcelona? Ukio’s thoughtfully designed apartments provide the perfect base for your adventure. Book today and make your Sant Jordi celebration unforgettable!