“L’Ou com Balla” is a tradition that takes place in several towns of Catalonia on Corpus Christi day. It consists of placing an emptied eggshell on the jet of water of a fountain spout, so that it spins without falling. The fountain is decorated with seasonal flowers and fruits, such as cherries, which often cover the basin of the fountain, or broom and carnations.

The most widespread interpretation is that the egg represents the consecrated host and the jet of water symbolizes the chalice with the blood of Christ, in direct reference to the Catholic feast of Corpus Christi. The origin of the tradition appears to be in Barcelona Cathedral. One theory explains that a Dominican friar learned about it in Italy and, after moving to Barcelona, proposed to recreate it in the Cathedral. According to the historian Ramon Nonat, the first documented celebration dates back to 1440. By the 16th century, it was already recorded as an annual tradition, held at the cloister’s fountain and organised by the choir boys, who after the long procession ate the egg, the cherries and the decorated fruit.

Other interpretations suggest that it represents the fullness of spring, and some also argue that it originated as entertainment for the nobles of Montcada Street while they waited for the procession to pass. Over time, the belief spread that if the egg fell, the forecast for the year would be bad; however, if it kept “dancing” throughout the day, prosperity was expected.

In Martorell, around Corpus Christi, you can enjoy “L’Ou com Balla” at the fountain in the garden of the Enrajolada Museum.