Based on a 13th-century Rivesaltes legend, the Fête du Babau brings to life the highlights of this medieval tale, bringing to life the Babau, the half-iguana, half-dragon monster who, it is said, breached the town's ramparts and devoured several children.
A little history...
On February 2, 1290, during a peaceful night in Rivesaltes, a commotion broke out: six babies had just disappeared, devoured by a huge beast that had entered through the forat del forn. Another night, the village watchman spotted an iguana in the Agly, with a fearsome jaw and impressive claws. When the mayor asked for a description of the animal, the man, now stammering with fear, could only articulate “va... vau...”, i.e. “il a.... il a....”. This is how “va vau” became “Ba bau”.
Galdric Trencaven, lord and crossbowman, hung pigs from the ramparts to bait the beast. After several nights, the monster appeared again. At the end of the fourth night, the lord was finally able to shoot two fatal arrows into the animal's throat to bring it down! The population celebrated the end of this terrible drama with a memorable banquet.
The Babau today...
Today, a rib can be seen at the Rivesaltes Tourist Office. If you pass by, you'll be able to catch a glimpse of it.
The first trace of the Babau festival, in the form of a carnival, was recorded in 1892, then lay dormant for decades before reviving in 1992! It brings together many local players, including residents, craftsmen, associations, shops, etc.
The festival starts at 11 a.m. in the middle of August.
The Babau makes its first appearance in the streets of Rivesaltes, escorted by the giant Galdric Trencavent and his wife Radegonda, followed by young horsemen and floats representing a catapult and a forge.
As the hours go by, stilt-walkers, jugglers, fire-eaters and brass bands march past.
In the early evening, the music becomes more deafening, as if to muffle the cries of the monster, whose end is near and who will be sacrificed in a pyrotechnic blaze as soon as night falls.
Translated with DeepL.com
(free version)
