Giant Human Towers in the Town of Algemesí, Spain

In the town of Algemesí, near Valencia, Spain, there’s an incredible tradition that will leave you amazed: people climb on top of each other to form giant human towers! These towers, called the muixeranga, are built during the Festival of Our Lady of Health every September, a celebration so special it’s recognized by UNESCO as world heritage. Imagine walking into a festival where instead of floats or fireworks, you see real people balancing high above the ground, creating shapes and towers with their bodies—it’s breathtaking!

The muixeranga is really old, with records going back to at least the 1600s. It started as part of religious processions to honor the Virgin Mary, but it has grown into a symbol of the town’s pride and culture. What makes it different from the human towers (castells) you might see in Catalonia is that the muixeranga isn’t only about being tall—it’s also about forming beautiful shapes and figures that look like living sculptures.

Giant Human Tower

The way it works is both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. Strong adults form the base, called the pinya, while others climb higher and higher to build the tower. Finally, the smallest and lightest—often children—climb all the way to the top, waving their hands or striking a pose. Everyone has to work together with perfect timing, balance, and trust. It’s like watching teamwork, courage, and art all rolled into one amazing show.

Today, the muixeranga is one of the highlights of Algemesí’s September festival. It’s done to the beat of traditional instruments like the dolçaina (a flute) and tabalet (a drum), which add excitement to the atmosphere. For the people of Algemesí, it’s more than just a performance—it’s a way to celebrate their history and community spirit. For visitors, it’s a jaw-dropping sight that makes you cheer, hold your breath, and remember forever.