Welcome Tio!

Caga Tió, literally shit log, is another of those enduring Catalan Christmas traditions that sometimes baffle the innocent observer.

On Christmas Day, in our case after lunch, so about 6pm, the Tio is placed in the centre of the room, covered with a blanket to keep him warm and in song commanded to defecate a gift under threat of a good beating from a basto or stick if he doesn't obey. The gifts are usually of a novelty or ironic nature, occasionally ribald and have little value. Since the main presents for children and indeed adults are brought by the Kings on 6th January, the Tio often provides the opportunity to brighten up what in Catalonia is still a mainly religious celebration of the birth of Christ. Needless to say our boys insisted on inviting Santa in on Christmas morn as well, so from many sources gifts flow.

This photo shows the large Tio placed in the main square of Serinya, outside the 13th century church of St Andreu. Notice the fine barretina, jauntily tilted over one eye.