Valencia Trader

Sexenni of Morella, Castellon

Between 1648 and 1650, one of the cyclical epidemics which affected europe was especially severe in Morella, reaching its highest point in 1672. The prior of the city decided to take the image of the patron Virgin in the city to provide relief and comfort to the citizens. Chronicles report the betterment of ill people as the image of the Virgin was carried through the streets of Morella. At the beginning of 1673, the epidemic was over. As a result, thanksgiving festivals were proclaimed, and it was decided to mantain them through the ages. It is for this reason that every six years Morellan people celebrate a festivity of nine days which remembers the vow made to the Virgin during the 17th century.

The preparation of Sexenni starts the year before it is celebrated with the setting of "els ninots" during the three first Sundays of August. But it is in the fourth Sunday when the Sexenni is announced. To this anouncement (Anunci) of the Sexenni festivity, a herald proclaims that the following year Morella will hold the Sexenni. In the afternooon, it takes place a colorful parade immersed in tones of confetti. After this announcement, Morellan people start a frenetic activity which will transform the rythm of the city life for a year; the making of the decoration of the streets for the following year. Curly silken paper moulds the tapestries which decorate the streets during the festivities.

The second half of August arrives. The Patron Virgin of Vallivana is brought to Morella by a procession, and during nine days, the inhabitants of Morella carry on with the thanksgiving vow and they dedicate those days to their Patron. The organization of the first day is held by the City Council. The rest of days are organized by a guild or another entity as the Morellan-Catalan Colony, The Guild of Traders or The Guild of Industry and Transport among others. The general procession is celebrated during the first day of these festivities and it represents one of the most important acts of the celebrations.This is an event which, together with the sacred and emotional feelings, becomes a plastical picture for the lovers of history, folklore and theatre.

The dances acting in the procession are ancient and they are a reflection of the guilds established in the city during the 16th century. Through movement and clothes, these dances represent the profession that comprises the guild they are related to, and at the same time, they pay and homage to their patron saint when dancing. Some of these dances are: "els oficis", "els teixidors", "les gitanetes", "els llauradors" or "els torneros".