Thousands of spectators packed the Tarraco Arena in Tarragona, Spain, this past weekend for the 30th Concurs de Castells, Catalonia’s biggest human tower competition.
The biennial event, held every two years, brought together the region’s top teams in a thrilling display of strength, balance and teamwork.
Record-breaking victory
Castellers de Vilafranca claimed first place with 14,635 points. The group made history by completing the first-ever successful “9 de 9 amb folre” – a nine story tower with nine people on each of the lower levels. This marked their 13th win in the last 15 editions of the contest.
Colla Vella dels Xiquets de Valls finished a close second with 13,365 points, while Colla Jove Xiquets de Tarragona took third.
How the towers are built
Teams known as colles form the base called the pinya with dozens of people locked together for support. Lighter climbers then scale the structure level by level.
Children often reach the very top to crown the tower by raising one arm. Points are awarded for height, difficulty and successful completion without collapse.
A living tradition
Castells or human towers, date back to the late 18th century in Catalonia. UNESCO listed them as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010. Around 42 groups competed across the weekend, with the final day featuring the top 12 teams. Tickets sold out completely.
Spectators watched colorful teams in matching shirts push the limits of human cooperation. Some towers stood firm; others tumbled amid gasps from the crowd. The event ran late into the evening after weather delays.
The competition remains a powerful symbol of Catalan identity, uniting people of all ages in one of the world’s most spectacular cultural shows
