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Gabon-mukurra, the basque yule log. Source: Felix Mugurutza.
In the Basque Country—and a big part of Europe—one of the most representative Christmas events was the burning of a large log in the home bonfire. The log would burn for several days, acquiring supernatural, magical properties. Despite its importance, it is a lost tradition, and if any memory of it remains, it is scarce or very limited these days.
Christmas parties have been part of the end of the year for a long time… (Photo: E. X. Dueñas)
In this blog we have already discussed Christmas and traditions on several occasions. What is more, when we reflect on this winter cycle, we inevitably and directly condition it in such a way that it is assumed as part of our “inveterate” customs, to say something out of context. (more…)
Singing christmas carols in Akorda (Ibarrangelu, 1982). Source: Labayru Fundazioa Photographic Archive.
During the year and, particularly, in winter and its harsh climate, groups of the needy begged from house to house in the villages, asking the dwellers for alms or handouts in kind or food (eggs, chorizo sausage, bacon, black pudding, walnuts, hazelnuts, pears, apples, oranges, etc.). That intrinsic act of Christian charity or the traditional hospitality of the people of the rural world was usually met with the beggars politely and gratefully expressing wishes of health and prosperity in return.
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Ziortza Artabe Etxebarria. Labayru Fundazioa Photographic Archive.
Christmas would not be Christmas without walnut sauce, intxaur-saltsea. My grandmother Juli from Larrabetzu (Bizkaia) used to make it year in year out. I vividly remember entering the farmhouse and finding her cracking walnuts open. Her memory shall always remain with me.
Walnut sauce was a popular staple for many households, especially in Bizkaia and Gipuzkoa, where walnut trees abounded in forests and woodlands. A hearty, warming seasonal dish, perfect for the cold winter and as satiating as it is invigorating. (more…)
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