The correfoc, or fire run, takes place at festivals throughout the Spanish summer. Fire-throwing devils fuse with eager crowds in apocalyptic processions. It is particularly popular in Catalonia, where hundreds gather in the narrow streets to play with fire. Unlike in the US and UK, Spanish crowds don’t stand behind red tape at “a safe […]
The fame of tapas is now worldwide; you can eat tapas from Alaska to Oz. Yet their origins are surprisingly mysterious; men with claims to the invention range from royalty to peasantry. What we do know is the tapas were invented by one of three men. The question is: was it the wise king, the […]
Girona shakes off its winter blues with blossom, romance and … onions. Check out the selection of weird and wonderful Catalan customs and events which are not to be missed in the spring time. Celebrate Easter In Catalonia, Easter is filled with performances of palm leaves, romans and crucifixes, telling the story of Jesus’ last […]
Learning a language can be boring as hell, but it can also be simply hilarious. The difference between one letter can lead to some fantastic sentences. (Think “ship” vs. “shit” in English; the beautiful “shit” sailed across the sea). But funny as it may be, if you genuinely manage to order deeply fried penis by […]
Living in Spain, many friends suppose that I spend my days asleep and my nights drinking sangria and dancing the flamenco. Sadly, my response would be a definite ‘No way’ rather than ‘Olay!’ In fact, many Spanish stereotypes are about as true as the idea that all Scots wear kilts and drink whisky – i.e. […]
Girona is a city which sunbathes in summer and snuggles in winter – it is beautiful all year round. But if you’re heading here for winter sunshine, don’t forget your gloves and hats. It may be sunny but it won’t be as warm as you expect so sunbathing isn’t on the cards. But don’t fear, […]
All over the world, Christmas is a time to eat, drink and be merry – and Spain is no exception. Throughout the various regions of the country, including Catalonia, the bakeries overflow with the following traditional treats. Torron / Torró / Turrón This is without a doubt the most popular Christmas sweet. Originating in Arabic […]
When you stop and think about it, Father Christmas seems a little odd, but that is nothing – literally nothing, compared to the Catalan Christmas poopers. In Catalonia, rather than rosy-cheeked Santa, the Catalans celebrate Caga Tio. Caga Tio means Poo Log or Uncle Poo – and that’s quite literally what he is: a pooing […]
Clearly, wandering through the picturesque streets decorated with Christmas lights is a must. Beyond this, if you’re looking for something a bit different, try a guided walk, exhibition or market. Markets Whether you are looking for Christmas gifts or simply want to soak up the festivity, there are lots of markets to try. As normal, […]
Catalans frequently pitch themselves against Spain, saying that “Catalonia is not Spain”. But if it’s not Spain, you may be wondering, well…, what is Catalonia? And if Catalonia is against Spain then how does Catalonia size up versus its rival? Power: Region vs Country Catalonia is 1 of 17 regions in Spain, each of which […]
