National Festival of the Trova

The National Festival of the Trova is a unique cultural event held during Medellín’s Feria de las Flores, celebrating the traditional art of “trova”—a form of improvised, poetic singing that is an integral part of Colombian folklore. This festival brings together the best trovadores, or trova singers, from across Colombia to compete in a lively and engaging contest.

The trovadores are known for their quick wit, creativity, and lyrical skill, often addressing humorous, satirical, or socially relevant topics in their verses. The competition is structured in rounds, where participants face off in a battle of words, creating verses on the spot based on given themes or prompts with the audience playing a crucial role, reacting to the performances and often participating in the judging process.

📚 History & Interesting Facts:

The “trova” tradition in Antioquia dates back to the early 20th century, originating from rural communities where farmers and laborers would entertain themselves with improvised songs and rhymes. It became a popular form of oral storytelling and social commentary. The National Festival of the Trova was officially integrated into the Feria de las Flores to highlight and preserve this unique cultural expression, making it a central attraction. It serves as a platform to showcase the talent of both seasoned and emerging trovadores, ensuring the continuation of this beloved art form. The festival is a testament to the rich oral traditions of the Paisa region and its enduring legacy.