The premiere culminates a process initiated to commemorate the 325th anniversary of the first documented reference to the Àliga in Valls, dating back to 1700. This figure is one of the most beloved and unique elements of the local festival, playing a central role in the ceremonial procession.
The recovery project, promoted by the City Council and the Ceremonial Procession Commission, aimed for fidelity to the baroque-style piece that was destroyed during the Civil War in 1936. The solemn premiere will take place in the Sant Joan church, following the performance of the Moixiganga de Valls and the figure's blessing.
The new Àliga is a faithful reproduction of the baroque Àliga prior to 1936, fully recovering the aesthetics, proportions, and construction systems typical of the baroque style.
The figure, measuring 2.60 meters high and weighing 65 kilos, was created by the Statuari workshop of Catalan sculptor Carlos Morillo, an expert in ancient construction methods. The crown, a prominent element, was artisanally reproduced by the goldsmith workshop Ferran Garreta in Vic.
The commemorative events begin on January 30 with the presentation of the documentary La nova àliga de Valls. The following day, January 31, the exhibition '325 anys de l'Àliga de Valls' will open at the Biblioteca Popular, featuring the model of the new figure and a collection of historical photographs.
