Corpus Christi and the legend of Saint Martha

Corpus Christi and the legend of Saint Martha

A story that unites the divine and the legendary

In Granada, the Corpus Christi festival is much more than a religious celebration. It is a living manifestation of traditions, popular emotions and legends that are intertwined with the history of the city. Among these legends, one particularly curious and fascinating story stands out: the story of Saint Martha and her connection to Corpus Christi.

For centuries, a story has been passed down linking Saint Martha to a miraculous event during this festival. But what does a saint known for her hospitality in Bethany have to do with the Corpus Christi procession in Granada? We invite you to find out.

Corpus Christi: meaning and celebration in Granada

A festival with deep roots

Corpus Christi is one of the most important festivals in the Catholic liturgical calendar. It is celebrated in honour of the body and blood of Christ present in the Eucharist. In Granada, this festival has taken on a unique dimension: religious solemnity is mixed with popular joy.

The streets are filled with altars, flowers, awnings and decorated balconies. The atmosphere is one of devotion, but also of celebration. The procession of the Blessed Sacrament is the centre of everything, and as it passes by, there is a moment of silence and absolute respect.

Saint Martha: hospitality and courage

Who was Saint Martha?

Saint Martha is a much-loved figure in the Christian calendar of saints. Sister of Mary and Lazarus, she is known for her hospitality and her active role in the life of Jesus Christ. In many traditions, she is depicted as the woman who prepared the home to receive the Messiah.

But beyond her domestic role, medieval legend attributes to Saint Martha an act of extraordinary courage: confronting a terrifying beast.

The origin of the legend: Saint Martha and the dragon

The dragon of Tarascon

The story takes us to Tarascon, a town in the south of France, where, according to legend, a monstrous creature called the Tarasca lived. It was half beast and half dragon, spreading terror among the inhabitants, and no one could stop it... until Saint Martha arrived.

With the sole force of her faith and a cross, Martha tamed the beast. She did not kill it, but tamed it. She brought it back to the village, where it was finally destroyed by the citizens. This story became a symbol of the victory of good over evil, of faith over fear.

‘Corpus Christi and Saint Martha connection’: the Tarasca in 

From France to Spain: a travelling tradition

The legend crossed the Pyrenees and reached Spain, where it took on new forms. In Granada, a figure also known as the Tarasca was incorporated into Corpus Christi: a female mannequin mounted on a beast that parades through the streets the day before the main procession.

Este desfile representa una versión satírica y popular de la leyenda. El maniquí, a veces criticado por su apariencia, genera debates y risas, pero también recuerda el trasfondo espiritual del relato de Santa Marta.

This parade represents a satirical and popular version of the legend. The mannequin, sometimes criticised for its appearance, generates debate and laughter, but also recalls the spiritual background of the story of Saint Martha

‘Origin of the legend of Saint Martha Corpus Christi’: between myth and faith

A living tradition

The origin of this legend is a combination of devotion, folklore and the need to transmit values through symbolism. In this case, Granada's Corpus Christi is enriched by this narrative that blends the medieval and the Christian, the feminine and the monstrous, faith and celebration.

‘Meaning of Corpus Christi Santa Marta

The presence of Santa Marta in the imagery of Corpus Christi is no coincidence: she represents protection, active faith and the power of good in the face of chaos. Her figure inspires spiritual strength and a sense of community.

Discover Granada with Tickets Granada 

If this story has piqued your curiosity, we invite you to discover the places where spirituality and history come to life. At ticketsgranadacristiana.com you can purchase tickets for the main Christian monuments in Granada, such as the Cathedral, the Sacromonte Abbey and the Cartuja Monastery.

Book your combined tickets and experience Granada's heritage first-hand. Granada is waiting for you

Corpus Christi in Granada: a union between religious and pagan

Corpus Christi in Granada: a union between religious and pagan