Concurs de Castells

 

Catalonia's annual Concurs de Castells competition and festival every October will make your jaws drop.

Traced back to the 18th century, when traditional Valencian dances decided to challenge the conventional human form. This art of human towers has reached a new height. 32 tower teams are pitted against each other to create columns nine stories high - with a crown rider (always a child) at the top!
 
I have never seen human construction and communication in this way.
 
While you're there, take in as much Catalan culture as possible. Parades, street shows, music and food stalls all contribute to the festive atmosphere.