In Spain, a Festival to Ward Off Sea Monsters

In the Middle Ages, the Spanish town of Redondela was a fishing town with a tradition of tall tales. Troubadours roamed the streets, singing of sea monsters who devoured young girls. Today, the Festa da Coca celebrates the defeat of the monster at the hands of two dancing maidens. Five-year-old girls dance on their mother's shoulders. There are also sword dancers and eating.

Here are some photos from the festival:

All photos by: Miguel Vidal/Reuters