May Crosses (Cruces de Mayo)

The May Crosses ('Cruces de Mayo' in Spanish) form a Spanish tradition which dates back to Roman times. Apparently, as far back as Emperor Constantine the Great, who is best known for being the first Christian Roman Emperor.

Legend says that Constantine, while involved in a battle in which victory seemed impossible, was confronted with a vision of Christ on the cross.

Above the cross were these words: In hoc signo vincis (With this signal victory will be yours). Constantine constructed a cross of his own, placed it ahead of his army, and went on to secure victory.

The tradition of May Crosses is celebrated in many parts of Spain, most notably in Andalucía.

Anyone can take part in making the crosses, usually achieved by fitting together sections of plastic tubing, each punctured with lots of little holes. Then the crosses are decorated with flowers which fit into the holes. Often, the immediate surrounds of the cross are also 'dressed' - with herbs, flowers and the like.

The results are beautiful, and prizes are given to the most attractive crosses.

This selection of crosses is from a recent display in Arcos de la Frontera, Southern Spain. Arcos is where much of Speekee was filmed.

Activity idea: Make May Crosses as wall displays.