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The Day of Cantabria – August 13, 2023

The Day of Cantabria is an important holiday for the locals which is celebrated yearly on the second Sunday in August. This year it falls on August 13. This historic community is located in Northern Spain with a population of 580, 229. Its name comes from the Celtic word for ‘highlanders,’ referring to its mountainous terrain. Cantabria is home to many beautiful national parks and museums that display its rich and ancient history. Cantabria’s beautiful architecture is a mixture of arabesque, gothic, and renaissance, making it a great tourist destination for those who appreciate history. The locals celebrate this holiday to appreciate the rich history and culture of Cantabria.

History of The Day of Cantabria

Cantabria is an autonomous community in northern Spain. Though the borders of this region changed throughout the years and had long been occupied by neighboring countries, its people have been around for centuries. This region has archeological sites that go back to the Lower and Upper Paleolithic period. The Cave of Altamira is one of the most significant finds, with cave paintings that date back to about 37,000 B.C. Cantabria is part of Green Spain and enjoys luscious forests, breathtaking scenery, and marvelous architecture.

During the Roman conquest of Hispania, Rome fought against Cantabria and Asturias from 29 to 19 B.C., eventually conquering the regions. The Cantabrians saw death in every battle as a victory and preferred committing suicide rather than becoming slaves. Cantabria remained part of the Roman Empire until it fell in 476 A.D. when it regained independence. It was later invaded by Muslim Moors in 714. Cantabria attempted to unify during the 18th century but struggled due to a lack of resources.

The Day of Cantabria was first celebrated in 1967 as The Day of the Mountains. Its name was later changed to “The Day of Cantabria” in 1981 when Cantabria gained independence. In 1981, the Statute of Autonomy of Cantabria allowed it to become a self-governed, autonomous community, giving it its own flag, coat of arms, and anthem. Cantabrians proudly celebrate this day through sporting events, parades, festivals, and traditional dance and music. Cantabrians all overexpress their appreciation for their history and culture, sharing it with others.

The Day of Cantabria timeline

37,000 B.C.
First Cantabrians

The first recorded human evidence in this region.

195 B.C.
Cantabria

The first references to Cantabria were documented by historians.

29 to 19 B.C.
Cantabria Wars

Rome fights against Cantabria and Asturias.

19 B.C.
Occupation

The Romans take over Cantabria.

476 A.D.
Fall of the Roman Empire

The Roman Empire collapses.

1967
The Day of the Mountains

Cantabria begins celebrating this holiday to appreciate the history and culture of Cantabria

1981
Independence

Cantabria became an independent, autonomous community. The name of the holiday was changed to Day of Cantabria.

The Day of Cantabria FAQs

What is the capital of Cantabria?

The capital of Cantabria is Santander.

What is Cantabria known for?

Cantabria is known for its stunning nature, beautiful architecture, and rich history, such as ancient castles and caves with prehistoric paintings.

What language do they speak in Cantabria?

The official language in Cantabria is Spanish.

The Day of Cantabria Activities

  1. Visit Cantabria

    Make Cantabria your next tourist destination and visit its many historical sites. If you happen to be around during the Day of Cantabria, join in on the many cultural festivities and performances.

  2. Host your own Cantabrian fiesta!

    You don’t have to go to Spain to celebrate this holiday. Host your own party with traditional food and music.

  3. Read up on its history

    Spain has a long and rich history and Cantabria alone has so much to offer. Read up on the history and research some of its beautiful historical sites.

5 Interesting Facts About Spain

  1. Spain has the world’s oldest restaurant

    The first restaurant ever, Sobrino de Bostín, in Madrid first opens.

  2. Spain had the first national anthem

    Spain was the first country to officially declare a national anthem.

  3. Nudity is legal in most cities

    Most cities in Spain have no laws against nudity.

  4. It’s named after rabbits

    At around 300 B.C. Spain was called ‘Ispania’ meaning ‘land of rabbits’ due to the abundance of the woodland animal at the time.

  5. It has a well-preserved heritage

    Spain has 47 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with only Italy and China exceeding it.

Why We Love The Day of Cantabria

  1. It has a unique culture

    Cantabria is a very special place for those who enjoy the beautiful scenery and historical sites. By visiting Cantabria, you’ll enjoy its astonishing architecture and the many museums that replicate the awe-inspiring cave paintings that date back centuries.

  2. It has a rich cuisine

    Whether you want to visit the region or experience it from home, Cantabrians have many interesting foods, including many delicious deserts, like Quesada, or seafood dishes like bonito del Norte.

  3. It reminds us to preserve its culture

    This holiday reminds us of all the beauty Cantabria has to offer and all the history that goes back to the stone age. It’s crucial to preserve all that history.

The Day of Cantabria dates

YearDateDay
2022August 14Sunday
2023August 13Sunday
2024August 11Sunday
2025August 10Sunday
2026August 9Sunday

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