Everyone Hates The Bombas: A Noisy Tradition in Antigua Guatemala
I was born and raised in the La Merced neighbourhood. Waking up to firecrackers and bombas (mortars) has always been a reason for celebration and joy. Perhaps I made this connection when my grandparents came to wake us up with firecrackers early in the morning on our birthdays, a tradition that my cousins continue to do to this day. The bombas are a fundamental part of Chapin and religious traditions.
The tronadero (loud noise) is always present for holidays starting in the early morning hours, announcing a community’s joy and devotion. This custom divides the residents of Antigua: for some, it is an expression of faith and celebration, while for others it is an unavoidable nuisance.
Lighting bombas and cuetes (firecrackers generality for any pyrotechnic) during festivities is a strong component of popular religiosity. There is a belief that the noise is a way of honouring patron saints and warding off evil spirits. In addition, it is believed that the noise announces the presence of divinity and its protection towards the faithful.
For others, it is interpreted as a distant announcement of the celebration of a party, so that the sound and colours indicate to those who want to participate, where the meeting point is.
The origin of this tradition:
The tradition of firecrackers and fireworks isn’t new. Since colonial times, religious festivities in Guatemala have been accompanied by music, processions and firecrackers. This custom has its roots in European celebrations that were brought by the Spanish and adapted to local traditions. The use of firecrackers was consolidated as an indispensable practice for any religious celebration in Latin America and Guatemala was no exception.
The noise that identifies us:
Bombas and cuetes not only mark religious celebrations but also accompany national holidays and important events such as setting off firecrackers for the Antigua football team when they win a match. For many, this sound is a symbol of national identity and traditions that have passed down from generation to generation. However, noise can be a point of tension in Antigua, where residents and tourists seek tranquillity. That is why some suggest quieter alternatives as a cultural expression and celebration; and don’t disrupt sleep.
What is certain is that noise is something that identifies Guatemalan culture and is and has always been part of our folklore. But, if you are one of those who feel that fireworks ruin your moments of tranquillity, here are three recommendations to help cope with this tradition:
- Life-saving headphones: Invest in noise-cancelling headphones and turn on a playlist of “Nature Sounds.” Who knows, maybe you’ll end up hearing birds instead of fireworks.
- Wake up before the fireworks: If you can’t beat them, join them. Make yourself a nice cup of coffee (we recommend this page) and listen to the fireworks with a festive attitude. Maybe you’ll even end up enjoying the sunrise.
- Move: When the sound makes your daily life impossible, you can always choose to move from Antigua, but bear in mind, that the bombas will find you wherever you live in Guatemala!
Whatever your position is regarding the bombas and cuetes, they are part of our history and continue to resonate like an echo to the celebrations that unite us Guatemalans.
Everyone Hates The Bombas
By Julissa Carrillo
Photos by Luis Noriega
