The sardana is much more than a dance: it is a collective expression of identity and brotherhood that has accompanied the Catalan people throughout the centuries. Danced in a circle, with hands joined and hearts open, it symbolizes equality and unity. Today, it remains alive in the squares and festivals across the country, reflecting a tradition that unites generations and keeps the essence of Catalonia alive. A dance that represents an entire people The sardana has been, for more than a century, one of the most recognized cultural expressions of Catalonia. Danced in a circle and with a collective spirit, it is considered the national dance of Catalonia for its ability to unite, express community, and evoke a shared identity. Its popular origins and adaptation over time have made it much more than just a dance: it is a form of social connection, celebration, and cultural affirmation. Whether it is performed in the main square of a small town or in front of Barcelona’s Cathedral, the sardana continues to convey a message of cohesion, respect, and belonging. The origin of the sardana Although its roots are difficult to pinpoint, the first written references to the sardana date back to the 16th century, in the region of Empordà. At that time, it was a simple and short dance known as the “short sardana”, performed at local festivals to the sound of wind and percussion instruments. In the 19th century, one name marked a turning point: Pep Ventura (1817–1875), a musician and composer from Figueres. He revolutionized the sardana by extending its structure and creating the “long sardana”, which gave musicians a more prominent role and allowed for greater participation among dancers. He also created the modern cobla, the instrumental ensemble that still accompanies this dance today and is inseparable from its evolution. Thanks to this transformation, the sardana quickly spread throughout Catalonia and became a shared cultural symbol, especially during the Renaixença, a period of strong cultural revival and national pride. The cobla: the musical soul of the sardana The cobla is the traditional orchestra that brings the sardana to life. It consists of twelve musicians and a variety of unique instruments, among which the tenora and the tible stand out, giving the music its distinctive and unmistakable sound. Other instruments include the flabiol and tamborí, the fiscorn, the double bass, and several trumpets and trombones that provide rhythm and depth. Performing a sardana requires perfect coordination between music and dance. Each piece follows a regular pattern of short and long steps, and it is common to see dancers —guided by the capdanser— counting mentally to maintain the precision and symmetry of the circle. The result is a fascinating blend of order and emotion: a living music that connects to its roots while evolving with new composers and modern coblas that incorporate contemporary arrangements. How is the sardana danced? Discover the steps Dancing the sardana is a collective and symbolic experience. Participants form a closed circle, hold hands, and move to the rhythm of the music. The steps alternate between short and long, following a precise structure that everyone must know or learn. The capdanser (the person leading the circle) marks the beginning and the end, ensuring coordination. But the beauty of the sardana lies in its equality: all dancers are equal within the circle — there are no protagonists or hierarchies. This symbolism explains its success as a symbol of Catalan society: a dance that represents community, harmony, and unity, where everyone has their place and importance. Moreover, the sardana can be danced in both solemn ceremonies and popular festivals, which has kept it alive across all social classes. The sardana today: tradition and modernity Today, the sardana remains a living tradition that endures throughout Catalonia, as well as in Northern Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, and among the Catalan diaspora. Sardana groups organize gatherings, festivals, and competitions that bring together hundreds of people. One of the most iconic places is the square in front of Barcelona’s Cathedral, where open sardanas are danced every weekend. Other highlights include the Aplec de Montserrat, the oldest sardana gathering in the country, and the events in La Bisbal d’Empordà, considered the capital of the cobla. Sardana federations and many cultural organizations work to ensure the dance reaches new generations: there are workshops, school programs, and digital initiatives introducing young people to the sardana. Modern adaptations have even emerged, featuring electric instruments, fusions with other genres, and audiovisual projects that give new life to this ancient tradition. The sardana as a symbol of Catalan identity The sardana has been, and continues to be, a symbol of cultural resistance and collective unity. During times of repression, dancing it was a discreet yet powerful way to affirm Catalan identity and keep the language and culture alive. Today, far from losing relevance, the sardana represents values of coexistence, cooperation, and joy. It is not just a piece of folklore but a way of expressing the open and participatory spirit of the Catalan people. When the cobla begins to play and hands join in a circle, time seems to stand still. The sardana unites generations and reminds us that culture, when shared, continues to beat strongly. That is why, more than a dance, the sardana is —and will continue to be— the essence of a people dancing to the rhythm of their history.