Olentzero and Mari Dominigi are a deeply rooted tradition in the Basque Country. At Turrones la Colmena, we wanted to pay a small tribute to these beloved characters who herald Christmas and bring gifts to the youngest.
Originally, Olentzero was the log that burned in the fireplace on Christmas Eve. On Christmas morning, its ashes were scattered by the front door to protect the house during the following year. According to legend, the gentiles came down from the mountains announcing the arrival of Kixmi (Christ). Combining this mythological element with the tradition of the log and fire, the figure of this character was born, personified as a Basque charcoal burner, described as a good-natured and somewhat mischievous fellow.
Mari Domingi, on the other hand, represents femininity and the winter solstice. She is a shepherdess and farmer with knowledge of astrology and medicinal plants.
In the 20th century, both Olentzero and Mari Domingi took shape and became as prominent as other famous Christmas figures such as Father Christmas or Santa Claus. This custom can be seen in cities such as Bilbao, Donostia or Vitoria-Gasteiz. If you would like to learn more about this Basque Christmas tradition, you can visit the following page: https://turismo.euskadi.eus/es/agenda/olentzero/aa30-12375/es/
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