The Museo de Hogueras (Hogueras Museum) in Alicante, Spain, is a unique cultural space dedicated to one of the most important festivals of the region, the Festival of Lights (Las Hogueras de San Juan). This event is celebrated every year in June and symbolises the transition to the summer solstice. The festival, full of fire, fun and folk traditions, attracts thousands of tourists, while the museum offers a glimpse into the essence of this celebration all year round.
History of the festival and museum
The Las Hogueras de San Juan festival dates back to 1928, when the mayor of Alicante, inspired by the famous Valencian Fallas, decided to create a similar event for his city. Initially, residents burned old objects and rubbish to symbolise purification and the beginning of a new phase of life. Over time, this modest ritual turned into a large-scale cultural event with huge figures, colourful fireworks and noisy folk festivities.
TheHogueras Museum was opened in 1932 and has since become one of the main repositories of the history and traditions of this celebration. It is located in the centre of Alicante, making it accessible to anyone who wants to immerse themselves in a world of vibrant colours and breathtaking art.
Museum exhibits
The main treasure of the Hogueras Museum is the Ninots, the puppets that are the main elements of the festive compositions. Ninots are large figures, often several metres high, made of wood, cardboard and plastic. They are created as part of a competition, and after the festival they are burned on bonfires. However, one chosen ninot is saved from the fire each year by popular vote, and it is these figures that are on display at the museum.
The museum’s collection consists of many Ninots from the early years of the festival. Here you can see how the art of creating these giant figures has evolved: from simple images to complex, brightly coloured caricatures depicting famous politicians, actors or current social topics.
In addition, the museum displays archive photographs, posters, historical documents and costumes, which allow you to plunge into the atmosphere of the festival of the past years. A separate room is dedicated to the festival queens (Bellezas del Fuego), the girls who are elected each year to represent the festival and take part in official events.
Features of the festival and the role of the museum
The Las Hogueras de San Juan festival isn’t just about burning giant figures. It is days filled with music, dancing, fireworks and parades. Temporary installations are set up in the streets of Alicante, and entire themed venues are created, with local artists and musicians performing. In the last days of the festival, on 24 June, there is a grand burning of figures (la Cremà), when the city is lit up with fire and smoke.
The Hogueras Museum plays an important role in preserving these traditions. It not only preserves unique exhibits, but also organises educational events, workshops and guided tours, educating visitors about the history and significance of this celebration for Alicante. Thanks to the museum, residents and tourists can feel the spirit of the festival all year round, not just in June.
Modern significance
Today, the Hogueras Museum is an important part of Alicante’s cultural life. It attracts both locals and foreign tourists who want to get a closer look at Spanish culture. The Hogueras Festival and Museum is a prime example of how tradition can live and grow by combining art, history and modern trends.
By visiting the Hogueras Museum, everyone can discover the world of Spanish folklore, which is preserved and passed on from generation to generation. The colourful exhibits, unique figures and atmospheric installations leave an unforgettable impression and remind us that tradition is not only the past, but also an important part of the present that continues to live and inspire.
Conclusion
The Hogueras Museum in Alicante is a cultural treasure trove where history and art are intertwined. It allows visitors to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere and realise how important the Las Hogueras de San Juan festival is to the city and its people. A visit to this museum is a journey into a world of fire, art and tradition that continues to amaze and inspire people from all over the world.