A centuries-old echo that announces Lent and connects Martos with its history.
An instrument that speaks to the people
In Martos, the arrival of Lent is not only marked by saetas or the passing of brotherhoods: it is also heard through the deep, resonant call of the Juanillón Trumpet, a local emblem kept alive for centuries.
This long trumpet—over 2 meters in brass—is kept by the Brotherhood of Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno and sounded from the Virgen de la Villa viewpoint or the Torre del Homenaje, filling the city with its powerful echo. It can be heard several times a day, recalling a past when it served practical and devotional purposes.
Origins between faith and agriculture
The tradition roots back to the 17th century, possibly older. In the past, the trumpet alerted tenant farmers to pay their dues to Christ the Nazarene. A symbolic bridge linking rural life, community, and the church that remains alive today.
Now symbolic, the trumpet sounds every Lent in Martos, announcing Holy Week with its solemn tone, maintaining centuries of heritage and community memory.
A character for history
The name “Juanillón” came from the blind trumpeter Juan Rodríguez Ramírez in the 19th century. The current trumpet was made in 1986, preserving its craftsmanship.
During European Heritage Days, guided tours end with live trumpet performance by Antonio Izquierdo.
For Martos, the trumpet is identity, generational memory, and a symbol of a hardworking and faithful community.
What the local experts say
Interview's main points
Tradition spans nearly 300 years, originally to alert farmers to pay dues.
Holy Week integration turned it into cultural heritage.
Name “Juanillón” linked to singer Juanillo.
Antonio continues father’s legacy, hopes his children keep it alive.
Played every day through Lent. Embouchure practice essential.
Trumpet in family for 52+ years. Two instruments exist (one ~300y old).
