In the heart of Catalonia, just an hour from Barcelona, the small town of Mura once again becomes a magnet for those who appreciate unique Christmas traditions. As December arrives, its narrow streets and ancient squares become imbued with a special atmosphere: here, a one-of-a-kind gymkhana begins, with traditional Catalan Christmas logs—tió—transformed into charming characters as the main attraction.
Mura: A Medieval Town Where Christmas Magic Comes Alive
Recognized by international organizations for its careful preservation of historical heritage and nature, Mura transforms for a month into a true labyrinth for family treasure hunts. More than sixty tió logs, each with their own personality and style, are cleverly hidden in the most unexpected places: on trees, by windows, on benches, and even on rooftops. Some are reading books, others are riding bicycles or relaxing on deck chairs, and the most creative ones are dressed in festive winter costumes. Visitors eagerly search for them, turning a stroll through Mura into a real adventure.
The Gymkhana and Craft Fairs: A Celebration for All Ages
The main attraction of the celebration is a themed gymkhana that welcomes both children and adults. The rules are simple: tioncs must not be touched, so everyone can enjoy searching for them. On weekends and holidays until December 21, craft shops and creative workshops open in Mura, where visitors can buy souvenirs and try their hand at arts and crafts. It’s a great chance not only to join the game, but also to bring home a piece of Catalan Christmas.
How to Get There and Visitor Tips
Organizers recommend planning your visit in advance to avoid crowds. You can reach Mura by bus from Terrassa on weekends and holidays, or from Manresa on weekdays. For those driving, several parking lots are available on the outskirts of town—parking costs between 4 and 5 euros—and there’s a shuttle train from one of the lots. Walking from the parking areas to the town center takes no more than 15 minutes.
Respecting Nature and the Festive Spirit
City authorities ask guests to treat the environment with care and follow the rules of conduct. Public toilets, including eco-friendly dry cabins, are installed along the entire route for visitors’ convenience. Organizers emphasize that the festive atmosphere is built on respect for tradition and nature, so it’s important to keep the area clean and orderly.
Family Fun, Catalan Style
The Christmas gymkhana in Mura is more than just entertainment—it’s part of the region’s cultural identity. Every year, families from across Catalonia and other parts of Spain come here to experience the holiday spirit in the authentic atmosphere of a medieval town. For many, it has become a cherished tradition, bringing generations together and creating special memories of the winter holidays.
