Spanish culture and tradition

Spain, has a very rich culture due to its complex history. Although the inhabitants of the Iberian Peninsula are under one flag, there are many differences between them. Many regions, such as the Basque Country, Catalonia and Galicia demand autonomy. However, it is these differences that determine the popularity of Spain.

Language

Spain is a very diverse country in terms of language. Castilian, popularly known as Spanish, is the superior and official one. In addition, there are Galician (very similar to Portuguese), Catalan ( resembling both Spanish and French) and Basque. Therefore, when visiting one of these regions, we have to prepare ourselves for possible communication problems.

Corrida - bullfighting and eccierro

Spanish culture is automatically associated with bullfighting. Corrida, i.e. the battle between a bull and a torreador has been banned in many places due to the bloody dimension of this sport. The supporters refer to the cultivation of tradition and artistic form of this show. However, regardless of ones attitude to this form of entertainment, it is undoubtedly an export commodity for Spain. The struggle consists of several stages that are sacred by tradition. The yellow-pink sheet (capa) is provoking the bull to attack. Apart from the torreador, there is also a picador in the arena, whose task is to stick a lance into the bull's neck along with pedestrians (banderilleros) trying to pierce short spears (banderille) into the same place.

Speaking of bulls... eccierro, i.e. the roundup of bulls to the city streets, is directly connected with the corrida. The most famous one is organised in Pamplona, during the sanfermines festival. The daredevils wear traditional Basque costumes - white trousers and shirts, red belts, caps and scarves.

Flamenco

The second very popular tradition is flamenco, a dance that originated in the south of Spain. The gypsies are considered to be its founders. To perform a traditional show you need Guitarra, Cante i.e. song and dance, Baile. Flamenco still inspires artists from all over the world. Andalusia is also famous for its pilgrimages to a place called El Rocio and the miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary. In May, people come here in crowds, either on foot or in traditional flowery carriages. The town itself looks like it was taken out of the western plan - white buildings, sandy roads and horses.

La Tomatina

La Tomatina, a holiday celebrated in Bunol is also a very popular festival. The battle takes place here every year on the last Wednesday of August and is the main point of the fiesta week. The history of Tomatina dates back to 1945. Local youth participated in the traditional parade of gigantes y cabezudos (parades of great figures representing human beings connected with religion, history or mythology). There was a struggle that led to a fight between the participants of the feast. Unfortunately, or fortunately for the tradition now being cultivated, the parade ran next to a vegetable shop with crates full of tomatoes, which served as bullets for the enthusiastic youth.

Fiesta and food

The Spaniards have mastered feasting together. They appreciate strong family ties and local tradition. Therefore, the regions have the opportunity to establish their own (bank) holidays. Each of these festivities has to be celebrated lavishly, both in terms of parades and gastronomic specialties -croquettes with iamon (ham) or bacalao (fish), Spanish tortillas - omelettes with caramelized onions and potatoes in oil, paella - rice with seafood and delicious vegetable soup or gaspacio - served cold. In addition, it is worth trying cava - sparkling wine, or sangria, which is served with fruit.