Watery Monday in Salamanca

Salamanca’s Watery Monday is a holiday that dates back to the 16th century, a time in which King Philip II prohibited the presence of prostitutes in the city of Salamanca, from Ash Wednesday through a week after Easter Monday, in order to prevent local students from sinning during those days.

Back then there was a priest, also known as “Padre Putas” (Father of Bitches), who was in charge of easing the tension that the existence of prostitutes had caused around the neighborhood, and who was also in charge of these women’s medical care.

However, he was not famous because of the above mentioned reasons. The reason Padre Putas was famous is because, as stated by religious mandates, he would help prostitutes cross the river during the Abstinence Season and then, after this Season was over, he would sail them back to the city.

The real celebration however, was that of the Salamanca students, who would help prostitutes return in boats that had been previously decorated with “ramas” (branches), which is why in Spanish the term “prostitute” can be replaced by “Ramera” (Branch Woman). These women would be welcomed in a party by the riverside, in which lots of alcohol was drunk and “Hornazo” – a traditional dish from Salamanca, made out of sausage and other types of meat, was eaten.

Many different stories from Salamanca were born centuries ago. What is actually remarkable from this city is that traditions are still maintained within its culture. Due to the fact that Salamanca is mainly a city of universities, students have given birth to most of its traditions. Because of its important legacy of celebrations and festivities, all born within the souls of the youth, Salamanca is known as “the city of pleasures and of a happy life”.

Nowadays, Salamanca’s citizens gather every Watery Monday by Río Tormes’ riverbanks. Although over the time this celebration ceased to be a pagan festival and has become a family tradition, the story of prostitutes crossing back the river is always recalled.

The traditional “Hornazo” has recently obtained a brand name, and is no longer a dish intended only for Watery Mondays, it is now part of Salamanca’s traditional gastronomy, which is why it is easy to find anywhere, at time of the year.