Soft Launch of Christmas Book: Pan Dulces & Mince Pies

We are pleased to announce the launch of a new Christmas publication written by Manolo Galliano with Photographs by Victor Hermida titled ‘Pan Dulces & Mince Pies: A Llanito Celebration of Christmas Traditions & Memories’.  The book was launched on Wednesday 30th October at 11am in the Main Guard Bookshop and its the 7th collaboration between Manolo and Victor.



Our Chairman, Ian Balestrino, launched the book, adding “For many the book will serve as a nostalgic recollection of the traditions and customs of how we celebrated Christmas. For others it will be a documented account of what the festive season meant to their grandparents and parents”. On a personal note, he noted that the book brought back memories of his younger days and Christmases with his family. 

This Christmas treat endeavours to bring Gibraltarian traditions and customs to the fore and recognise them as intrinsic parts of our heritage. The reader is invited to pause and reflect on what makes the Gibraltarian whilst documenting the manner in which Christmas has been celebrated in times past and also passing that knowledge on the current generation. The book, which is illustrated with Christmas imagery and photographs by Victor Hermida, includes anecdotes of Christmases over the years. The reader will in many ways be transported back to their own Christmas memories and wonder that the season brings. The author encourages us to reconnect with the traditions that define our identity and how they form part of our intangible heritage. 

The book includes an appendix of llanito villancicos, songs, carols and Christmas recipes which characterize our special way of celebrating Christmas. 

A Book Signing by the authors was also held at the launch but you can leave a dedication with your purchase for them to sign.



Books are on sale on The Main Guard Bookshop and website for £15.99. Discount for Heritage Trust members applies. You must show a valid memberhsip card or apply the discount code at checkout (ask in our shop).

Previous collborative publications:

Churches of Gibraltar Set
A Rocky Labyrinth
Beyond the Ramparts