Science and the human tower tradition (castells) intertwine at the exhibition "Castells de ciència", open at the Mercat Central de Tarragona until October 13th. The display presents 14 illustrated posters that delve into disciplines such as physics, chemistry, sociology, mathematics, psychology, architecture, and geography, offering new perspectives on these human structures.
Driven by the URV's Communication and Science Dissemination Unit, with support from Repsol and collaboration from the URV Chair for the Study of Human Towers, the exhibition poses questions like the function of "folres" and "manilles" compared to Gothic flying buttresses, the energy accumulated in a ten-story tower, or the material used for children's helmets. It also analyzes the impact of climate change on human tower events.
Through illustrations and informative articles accessible via QR code, visitors can discover aspects such as calculating the potential energy of a "3 de 10" tower, using algorithms to study construction difficulty, or the role of human tower groups as spaces for social cohesion. Psychological preparation, injury prevention, and regional vocabulary are also addressed.
The "Castells de ciència" project, launched in 2021, aims to bring scientific concepts closer to a non-specialized audience using human towers as a medium. Since its inception, new formats like articles, animated videos, talks, and a documentary have been added, establishing it as a science dissemination initiative rooted in the region.
