Castellserà, in the Lleida region, celebrated its 22nd Perot i l'Alera Festival over the weekend, drawing many visitors and strong local participation. A central event on Sunday was the presentation of the Pedrenyal d'Honor award to the Coral Flors d'Urgell, which is marking its centenary in 2026.
The choir, founded in 1926, has a year-long programme of events planned to celebrate this milestone. The Generalitat de Catalunya recently honoured the Coral Flors d'Urgell with the Creu de Sant Jordi, one of Catalonia's highest distinctions.
Marcel Pujol, the Mayor of Castellserà, highlighted the choir's long history, describing it as "an entity that is the result of many years of dedication, work, and collective effort." He also stressed "the importance of publicly recognising the work of local people and associations, which is often altruistic."
Antonieta Fusté, president of the Coral Flors d'Urgell, expressed gratitude for the council's recognition, calling the award an "honour." She also acknowledged the consistent support from the community, which she said was key to achieving accomplishments like the Creu de Sant Jordi. Fusté stated, "It has been 100 years of tenacity to make music, culture, and choral singing a bond."
Festival Celebrates Local History and Community
Following the award ceremony, the second part of the play 'El compromís de l'Alera' ('The Commitment of Alera') was performed. The first part had been staged on Saturday afternoon.
Mayor Pujol gave a "very positive" assessment of the 22nd festival. He noted that "the Festa del Perot i l'Alera is becoming a true village festival, which makes the people of Castellserà come out into the streets and meet in the square."
Sunday's activities also included a craft fair, a circus workshop, and the traditional lacemakers' gathering. This was the 25th edition of the lacemakers' event, with around 200 participants.
Remembering Bandolier Perot d'Argensola
The Perot i l'Alera Festival remembers Castellserà's historical past, which is closely linked to bandoliers. It focuses particularly on the figure of Perot d'Argensola, whose stories date from the late 15th and early 16th centuries.
During the festival weekend, the municipality transforms into a medieval village. Streets are decorated for the occasion, residents dress in period costumes, and various activities are organised to immerse visitors in the historical theme.
