Baiona Celebrates the Arribada 2025: A Journey Through Medieval Times

From February 28 to March 2, 2025, the charming town of Baiona in Galicia, Spain, transformed into a vibrant medieval setting to commemorate the historic arrival of the caravel Pinta in 1493, marking the news of the Discovery of America.

A Medieval Spectacle

The Fiesta de la Arribada 2025 was a grand celebration that transported visitors back to the 15th century. The town's streets, particularly those around Carabela Pinta and Ciudad de Vigo, were adorned with over 60 artisan stalls, each showcasing traditional crafts and products that reflect the rich heritage of the region. These stalls offered a wide range of items, from handmade jewelry and textiles to pottery and metalwork, all crafted using traditional techniques.

Gastronomic Delights

Food enthusiasts were in for a treat as more than 35 food stalls were set up in strategic locations such as the Plaza Pedro de Castro, Paseo Ribeira, and Santa Liberata. The local cuisine featured an array of delicacies, including bocadillos de chorizo, empanadas, pulpo, and traditional desserts. The town's local businesses also played a significant role, with over 30 establishments decorating their facades and participating in the medieval theme.

Cultural and Historical Events

The festival was not just about shopping and dining; it was a rich cultural and historical experience. The program included various events such as a solemn mass at the Iglesia Santa María de Baiona, a conference on "Martín Alonso Pinzón: Discoverer of a New World" by Jesús Varela Marcos, and a book presentation titled "25,000 Leguas a Bordo de la Pinta" by Juan José Rodríguez Terrón.

Exhibitions and Performances

Cetrería and Justas: Visitors enjoyed exhibitions of falconry and medieval jousting tournaments, adding to the authentic medieval ambiance.
Música y Danza Medieval: The group Upsala performed medieval music and dance in the Parque de A Palma.
Videomapping: A spectacular videomapping display titled "Baiona un viaje en el tiempo" was projected onto the facade of the Iglesia Santa María de Baiona.
Circo de Fuego: A magical fire and pyrotechnics show by Asacocirco mesmerized the audience at the Playa Ribeira.

Community Involvement

The festival saw active participation from local associations and businesses. Fourteen gremial associations gathered in the Plaza de Santa Liberata to showcase their mastery in traditional crafts like blacksmithing, ceramics, and carpentry. The community came together to recreate the historical setting, making the event a true celebration of Baiona's heritage.

Honorary Recognitions

During the festival, an honorary distinction was awarded to D. Carmelo Romero Hernández, the former mayor of Palos de la Frontera, who was named Hijo Adoptivo de Baiona. This ceremony was held at the Salón de Plenos del Ayuntamiento.

The Fiesta de la Arribada 2025 in Baiona was a unique and immersive experience, blending history, tradition, and festive spirit. It was a celebration that not only honored the town's historical significance but also provided a memorable experience for both locals and visitors.