Bell ringer ringing the bells, Albaida

Ring the bells by hand

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This centuries-old practice has been acknowledged as being Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO for being an example of memory, history, tradition and communication. This original means of expressing sound is common across Spain, used in the different regions. Hearing this very special sound reverberating from bell towers is a recommendable experience.

A wide variety of sounds can be made depending on the technique used: peal, tipping and half tipping. Bell ringing serves and has served very different purposes over the course of history: from marking the different times of the day to residents of natural events such as fires, funeral processions or other news. The tradition of ringing the bells by hand has been passed down from generation to generation through bell ringing and neighbour groups and organisations.One of the most impressive times to “see the bell ringers in action” is during the festivities and shows held in the different towns. One Spanish town that has most perpetuated this tradition is Albaida (Valencia), where, since the 13th century, the bells have been rung by hand on a daily basis. You can also take a guided tour of the 17th century bell tower and visit the International Museum of Bell Ringing by Hand, MitMac.

Bell ringers ringing the bells inside the bell tower, Albaida
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