The Three Kings Cake: a sweet tradition to start the year in Barcelona

Every 6th of January, Barcelona wakes up to the aroma of sugar, citrus and shared memories. It’s Three Kings’ Day, celebrated with the Three Kings Cake, one of the most cherished Christmas traditions — the one that marks the end of the festive season and invites us to linger a little longer around the table.

More than just a dessert, the cake is an excuse to gather, raise a glass and enjoy the moment.

A sweet with centuries of history

Although today it is associated with Three Kings’ Day, the origins of the cake date back to Ancient Rome, during the Saturnalia — winter celebrations where round cakes with a hidden dried bean were shared as a symbol of good fortune.

Over time, the tradition was adapted to the Christian calendar and became part of the Epiphany, the day the Three Wise Men visited the baby Jesus. The cake took on its crown shape, decorated with candied fruit symbolising precious jewels.

The bean and the figurine: a small ritual

Cutting the cake always comes with a sense of anticipation.

- The figurine crowns the king or queen of the day, while the bean decides who will buy the cake the following year. A simple tradition that continues to spark laughter around the table.

The taste of tradition

The classic Three Kings Cake is made with a soft, aromatic brioche-style dough, delicately flavoured with orange blossom water and orange and lemon zest. Today, it coexists with filled versions, but the essence remains the same: sharing it with family.

Where to buy the Three Kings Cake near Hotel Regina Barcelona

If you’re staying at Hotel Regina, two must-visit addresses are just a short walk away:

- Escribà Gran Via, located on Gran Via, just a few minutes from the hotel, Escriba

- La Pastisseria Barcelona, in the Eixample district, also within an easy stroll from the Regina.Inici – Nadal 2025 - La Pastisseria Barcelona

A sweet ending to the festive season

The Three Kings Cake is a way to extend Christmas just a little longer, celebrate time spent together and start the year on a delicious note.