Pauliteiros Stick Dance
About this Place
The Pauliteiros Stick Dance is one of the most vigorous and original expressions of Iberian folklore, practised on the Miranda do Douro plateau and in the neighbouring municipalities of Vimioso and Mogadouro. In 2015, UNESCO inscribed this dance on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognising its universal value and the need to safeguard this centuries-old tradition.
Origins of the Dance
The origins of the pauliteiros are lost in the mists of time. The most widely held hypothesis points to Celtic roots, with parallels in British Morris dancing and Catalan stick dances. The pauliteiros dance in groups of eight men, dressed in white skirts (enagua), floral scarves, striped stockings and decorated hats, rhythmically striking their decorated sticks against each other to the sound of bagpipes and tambourine.
The Pauliteiros Groups
Today there are dozens of active pauliteiros groups in the municipalities of Miranda do Douro, Vimioso and Mogadouro. The oldest and most respected groups maintain repertoires with multiple choreographies, each with its own name. Transmission is oral and practical, strengthening community bonds.
The Costumes and the Sticks
The pauliteiros costume is a fundamental identity element. The white lace skirts, embroidered waistcoats, scarves and floral hats contrast with the male appearance of the dancers, creating an original aesthetic. The sticks — decorated with coloured ribbons and paper flowers — are the central instrument of the dance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When and where can I watch the pauliteiros perform?
- The pauliteiros perform mainly at the patron saint festivals of the Miranda plateau municipalities (Miranda do Douro, Sendim, Duas Igrejas, Vimioso), generally between June and September.
- Why do the male dancers wear skirts?
- The white skirts of the pauliteiros are a traditional element of festive male dress in Trás-os-Montes. They represent regional festive male elegance with deep historical roots.
- Are the pauliteiros still teaching the dance to new generations?
- Yes, since UNESCO recognition in 2015, teaching the pauliteiros dance has been formalised in many primary schools on the Miranda plateau.
