The Ocultura International Gathering will return to Zaragoza on November 4, 5 and 6 with an edition devoted to the Holy Grail. Led by writer and journalist Javier Sierra, the program will bring together experts to examine the history and traditions associated with the relic, with particular attention to its ties to San Juan de la Peña.
Under the title «Where Is the Grail? A Millennia-Long Search,» the ninth edition of Ocultura will be held at the Caja Rural de Aragón Auditorium. The event will feature three days of lectures and discussions on this object of cultural and historical interest.
This year’s program has a distinctly Aragonese focus, centering on San Juan de la Peña and its tradition connected to the chalice.
From Medieval Literature to the Aragonese Pyrenees
The history of the Grail comprises multiple layers, from the Christian relic associated with the Last Supper to the literary object of medieval European culture. The opening day, on November 4, will begin with the lecture «The Search for the Holy Grail in Medieval Literature» by Victoria Cirlot, a specialist in medieval culture.
José Luis Corral will present «The Aragonese Case: The Grail of San Juan de la Peña,» examining historical references to the Grail in Aragon, including a 1399 document that mentions the chalice at the monastery in Huesca.
Javier Sierra highlights the Aragonese context in the development of the Grail myth, linking the term grazal to the subsequent literary development of the Grail legend.
From the Historical Grail to Pilgrimage
The second day, on November 5, will examine the Holy Grail Route as a pilgrimage itinerary through the historic territories associated with the chalice housed in Valencia Cathedral.
Belén Luque and Cristina Monzó will discuss the route. Antonio Piñero will deliver a lecture on «The Last Supper and the Holy Grail,» exploring the historical possibility that the Grail survived.
Aragon and León, Two Traditions Face to Face
The edition will conclude on November 6 with a debate between Margarita Torres and José Luis Corral on interpretations of medieval chalices in Spain. The gathering has served as a forum for interdisciplinary dialogue since 2017 and continues to explore complex cultural and historical issues.
