..."The excavations carried out during these last two weeks by archaeologists, volunteers and members of the Amics del Museu de Xàbia (AMUX) association have confirmed the existence of what was probably a Bronze Age metal smelting furnace. According to Bolufer and Boronat, this finding is of great relevance since settlements with metallurgy activity are really scarce in the Valencian community. It is believed that this old workshop, whose main function was the casting of discarded metal objects for conversion into small items such as punches or needles, was linked to the shipping trade that came from the south of the Peninsula, where the metal industry had a very important role..."

For full story (in Castellano and Valenciano) see La Marina Plaza

Who was Father Christmas? Was he a real person? Why does he wear a red suit and ride a carriage pulled by reindeer? This short video describes the origins of the Christmas festivities and the origins and evolution  of the character of Father Christmas.

https://youtu.be/RMpEzJdvrtk

(Note:This has English subtitles.)

Thus, Santa Claus is symbolic of the seasonal ritual of giving gifts and togetherness. The gift of music is something we can all enjoy, and during this time of polarisation and disunity in the world it is good to use music to bring us together. This from Sabadell in Catalonia.

https://youtu.be/GBaHPND2QJg

Every year the John Lewis Partnership - a British employee-owned department store, founded in the 1860s, produces a special Christmas advertisement. This year they worked with the pop star Elton John to show how a well-chosen gift can inspire a child.

https://youtu.be/mNbSgMEZ_Tw

We all give presents to family and friends. But it is also important to remember those who we may not know. This from Germany.

https://youtu.be/wEK2Jwzqpg8