Game of the Marbles in the Field
The game of birllas is one of the most unique and vibrant traditions of Campo , a town in Ribagorza that has proudly preserved this cultural heritage. Its preservation and promotion are largely due to the tireless work of the El Rampeu Sports Association , founded in 1990 and currently comprised of around 200 members. From its inception, this association has worked with two clear objectives: to maintain the historical value of the game and to encourage new generations of women to take up this sport.
During the summer, the streets of Campo often come alive with games of birllas, becoming a spectacle for both locals and visitors. The playing field must be flat, and on it are placed the nine birllas —pieces turned from beech wood—in three rows of three . These birllas, although cylindrical in shape, have a characteristic irregular form: thicker in the middle, creating a kind of "belly," and tapering at their ends.
The key element for knocking them down is the pin , a wooden piece that weighs almost four kilos and has two grooves : one for the thumb and another for the rest of the fingers, allowing for a firm and controlled throw. The game is played between two teams of two to five women each. The objective is simple but requires precision and strength: to knock down as many pins as possible. The game continues until one of the teams manages to score six points, or six rounds won.
The game of birllas is not only a sport, but also a tool for social cohesion. It brings together women of different ages, fosters intergenerational interaction, and strengthens ties to local traditions. Furthermore, playing it in the street, in front of neighbors and visitors, transforms each game into a festive event that forms part of Ribagorza's cultural tourism.
Anyone visiting Campo during the summer months shouldn't miss the opportunity to witness this traditional game, which is one of the unique experiences that define the town's identity and its commitment to preserving its customs. More than just a game, birllas is a living legacy that continues to defy the passage of time.
