During the month of May, the people of Spain create thousands of crosses, decorated with flowers. These floral works of art are displayed in gardens, churches, patios and in the streets. These are made to celebrate the Festival de la Cruz de Mayo (The May Cross Festival).
This festival takes place all over Spain and each province has its own styles and characteristics. They are usually richly ornamented and often consist of more than 300 carnations. In the Malaga province they are also adorned with manila shawls and pots and pans,
The crosses are made by the whole family and parties are held to make them. This is done to herald the arrival of Spring.
The worship of the cross dates back to the 4th century AD when according to tradition, St.Helen found the cross of Christ and honoured it by building temples in Jerusalem. |