# data[].attributes.body
This is a typical celebration in Spain and Latin America. It's said that everybody who has been a good person deserves a present. The roots of this celebration are very ancient: Three kings offered baby Jesus gold, incense and myrrh. Generally speaking the main idea is sharing our wealth on Christmas time. Undoubtedly, an excessive consumerism can spoil  the genuine Christmas spirit. However, our economy develops an incredibly growth and many people can enjoy prosperity in peace. By the way, we strengthen our links thinking that Three Wise Men used to be generous.

# data[].attributes.body
Hi everybody

# data[].attributes.body
I think this article gives a good overview of the basics of Spanish etiquette. I find etiquette to be a fascinating facet of any culture. What struck me most about this article is the section on tipping. What we view here in the US as nearly compulsory, many other countries view as odd or even rude. We know that minimum wage for waiters necessitates tipping, but that is not always the case abroad. The fact that the Spanish tip at all is surprising, as I assumed most European countries didn't. It is even more surprising that they do it with change, which most waiters in the US would find even more insulting than not being tipped at all.

https://www.roughguides.com/destinations/europe/spain/culture-and-etiquette/

# data[].attributes.body
One thing I thought was interesting about Spain is that nudity is legal in the country. The weather in Spain plays a big role in this rule in the country. In Spain they have very hot summers and humidity is hot so t
hey allow people to walk around in the nude if they would like. I thought it was interesting because that isn’t the case in America and this is the land of the free. Although people are allowed to walk around without clothes that isn’t exactly the case. They have many nude beaches so that is where many people like to show off all their curves.
https://www.languagetrainers.co.uk/blog/2017/06/21/6-interesting-facts-about-spanish-culture/

# data[].attributes.body
One of the traditions that popped out to me this week was regarding New Year. While here in the US we might eat black-eyed peas and cabbage for good luck in the new year, in Spain at the stroke of midnight you eat one grape with each clock strike. The goal is to eat, and most importantly finish, the twelve grapes as the clock strikes are finished. These grapes are a local Spanish variety that are large and have seeds and thicker skin than what we are used to seeing, so to keep pace eating 12 as a clock is striking out the hours at midnight is difficult! Succeed and you’ll have good luck all year!

https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2012/12/26/168092673/green-grapes-and-red-underwear-a-spanish-new-years-eve

# data[].attributes.body
I know very little of Spain and its traditions. I imagine that since its divided into various regions that some parts of Spain have certain traditions and celebrations that perhaps are not practice in another region of Spain. For Example, my parents are from Mexico  and in some states they celebrate the day of the dead in my state its not as common and I would also like to know whats celebrated all over Spain. Celebrations and traditions can demonstrate what a culture values and it brings people together that is why I'm interested in learning what Spain celebrates.

http://traveltips.usatoday.com/holidays-festivals-celebrations-traditions-spain-3445.html

# data[].attributes.body
I always very interested in Spain Siesta Tradition. I have been heard by many people about this.  Siesta is very famous in Spain. It is one of the strongest Spanish traditions. The siesta is a short nap, usually from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m., in which most businesses and schools close their doors so that everyone can go home for taking a siesta and then prepare for the busy afternoon. However, to many tourists, it is merely a cause of frustration and confusion. Most of the tourist will choose this time to stroll the streets for shopping or sightseeing, but only to find the shops closed and the streets empty.

The modern Siesta is not necessarily take a nap. Most people will choose to use this time to go home and spend time with their family or friends. Most families will use it as a time to have a long family lunch. Many Spaniards think siesta is healthy, and  will be more productive in the busy afternoon. Also, Spain is a very hot country, especially mid-afternoon. The reason for the siesta is for the workers to avoid the mid-day heat. They would feel refreshed after siesta and able to work in the late evening.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The siesta is one of the most famous aspects of Spanish life -- that dead period in the late afternoon when everything shuts down in Spain, in theory, so people can rest and take a nap.

The Spanish take the siesta very seriously, even going so far as to have a sleeping competition in its honor. But, on a normal day, do the Spanish really go to sleep at this time?

When Is the Siesta?

There are two periods of siesta in Spain -- siesta for shops and businesses, during which time many people go to a bar or restaurant, and then siesta for the restaurants, who obviously can't rest when everyone wants to come and eat.

The siesta for shops and businesses is from approximately 2 pm until 5 pm while bars and restaurants close from about 4 pm until about 8 or 9 pm. However, recent laws in Spain might change the length of the siesta.

Why Do the Spanish Stop for Siesta?

Much of Spanish culture is connected to the siesta. In some ways, there is a chicken-and-the-egg situation: some aspects of modern life in Spain are because of the siesta, but they may also contribute to why the idea of the siesta has not completely died.

Avoiding the Mid-Day Heat

Spain is a hot country, especially mid-afternoon, and the traditional reason for the siesta is for the workers in the fields to shelter from the heat. They would then feel refreshed after their sleep and would work until quite late in the evening, longer than they would have been able to without the siesta.

While people do still work in the fields in Spain, this reason doesn't account for why shops and businesses in big cities close down today.

Indeed, offices can get hot too, but the invention of air conditioning has helped in this department. So why do they still do it?

One reason for the siesta is that there was a law that limited shop trading times to 72 hours per week and eight Sundays a year. With these limits, it made sense for businesses to close when many people are hiding from the heat and stay open later.

This would, in turn, reinforce itself, as people would stay off the streets as all the shops were closed anyway.

Several years back, the law on Spanish business hours was relaxed -- currently, they are allowed to stay open for 90 hours a week and ten Sundays a year. Then, in 2016, the Prime Minister announced that official working hours were to end at 6 pm rather than 7 pm, spelling the end of the two-hour lunch break. And, as more and more people work in offices, most of which are now air-conditioned, this reason for the siesta doesn't hold as much weight.

Lunchtime, the Most Important Time of the Day

One big reason for the siesta is that the Spanish like to have a long lunch. At home, a mother will cook a huge lunch for the whole family (and yes, that does include for her grown son -- it is still customary to enjoy a home-cooked meal as an adult out of the nest). This meal could last up to two hours (longer if time allows), and alcohol is often included. A rest before going back to work is essential after that.

The Spanish Don't Sleep Enough

According to a Washington Post article, the Spanish sleep an hour less per night than the World Health Organization recommends, while another source claims the Spanish go to sleep later than any country in the world, after Japan).

So why is that?

The (quite interesting) reason is that Spain is in the wrong timezone. Spain shares the Iberian peninsula with Portugal, and, geographically speaking, is almost perfectly aligned with Britain, both of which operate on GMT, while Spain is on Central European Time, which extends as far east as Poland's border with Belarus and Ukraine.

The explanation supposedly is due to claims that Spain changed its timezone in World War II to follow Nazi Germany, but this is not strictly true. In fact, most of Europe went to Central European Time during World War II, to avoid confusion about when exactly attacks were going to take place. After the war, most countries reverted to their old timezone, but Spain did not. No one knows why, but it wasn't to align with Nazi Germany, as the Germans had been defeated.

In fact, Spain was allied with the UK and the US in the post-war years as the West tried to keep Spain from falling into the Soviet Union's sphere of influence.

Sleeping in the Afternoon Is Fun and Good for You

Another reason why the Spanish stop for siesta is not so much out of need but out of want -- the Spanish truly enjoy that traditional lunchtime break. It allows them to stay up later in the evening without fading (you'll rarely hear a Spaniard saying 'I think I'll have an early night tonight'). The late nightlife of Spain may have (partially) caused (or maintained) Spain's siesta culture, but it is the chance for a siesta which allows the late night partying lifestyle to continue -- and many Spaniards don't want that to change.

The sun stays out much later in Spain than in most other European countries, thus encouraging later eating and partying. Spanish nightlife is an all-night affair -- visitors to Spain are surprised to see the streets just starting to fill up at midnight and are even more surprised to see people in their 60s and 70s still out at 3 am. They wouldn't be able to do this without a siesta.

Also, a nap in the afternoon is good for you. The Spanish Society of Primary Care Physicians says that a siesta reduces stress and improves memory, alertness, and cardiovascular performance. It's said that siestas should last around 25 minutes to have the optimal benefit.

The End of the Siesta?

In truth, the siesta has been dying for a while now. A higher pressure modern job market means that many people are unwilling or unable to take long breaks and air conditioning has helped them to work through the hottest part of the day.

The gradual disappearance of the siesta has not changed the late-night lifestyle, which means the Spanish sleep an average of one hour less per day than other European countries.

Even before the recent law changes and economic pressures of the past few years, the siesta would hit Madrid and Barcelona much less than in Granada or Salamanca. Big supermarkets and department stores in much of the country stay open during the siesta. In winter, when the heat isn't stifling, this can be a good time to go shopping as many Spaniards will stay away during this time. Overall, many stores will be closed and you may struggle to get everything done.

So, Do the Spanish Actually Sleep During the Siesta?

Today's hectic lifestyle will often not allow people the time to sleep, but many still do their best to fit a little nap in when they can. However, the typical Spanish office is not equipped with a bed for an executive to catch forty winks -- though it certainly would be welcomed!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
When In Spain, Should You Siesta as the Spanish Do?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The siesta is one of the most famous aspects of Spanish life -- that dead period in the late afternoon when everything shuts down in Spain, in theory, so people can rest and take a nap. The Spanish take the siesta very seriously, even going so far as to have a sleeping competition in its honor.

# data[].attributes.body
The game of futbol is extraordinarily popular in the country of Spain, like everyone plays it. Everyone is involved with this game in some sort of way. "Spanish football fans are among the most dedicated and fervent in Europe and are matched in their fanaticism only by the Italians." Spanish children learn to play football almost as soon as they can walk, with the most promising players being snagged by the major clubs and coached from an early age in football schools. The Spanish league is one of the most competitive in Europe and Spanish teams enjoy considerable success in European competitions.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The national sport: Football ( fútbol), or soccer, is Spain's national sport and easily the country's most important participant and spectator sport. Spanish football fans are among the most

# data[].attributes.body
Business is an integral part of every economy, although business is conducted differently in different parts of the world. In spain it is assumed that people are very relaxed about punctuality but if one would like to make a good impression they must be punctual. In Spain it is also a common practice to get to know one's business partner throroughly before conducting business. During a first business meeting one can be expected to answer questions related to personal information, such as about one's family, etc. Spaniards want to know if one is reliable and honest before conducting business with them. Mealtimes are also considered time for relaxation so business meetings are usually not conducted over lunch, or dinner.
http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/guides/guide-to-spain-etiquette-customs-culture-business/

# data[].attributes.body
Reading about Spain this week, I was happy to read how the laws are very much in favor of people who are gay in Spain. There are employment protections in place all throughout Spain, same-sex marriage has been legal for quite some time, and gay couples are able to adopt rather easily. A 2013 pew research poll showed that 88 percent of people in Spain are accepting of people who are gay. When it comes to celebrations, Madrid boasts one of the largest, if not the largest, gay pride parade in the world, with other Spanish cities also hosting very large gay pride parades. -Madison Archer

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Europride parade in Madrid. Photo: Bru Garcia / AFP.

The Local takes a look some of the major advantages for the LGBT community in Spain.

1. Legalizing gay marriage was so last decade

A group of celebrates in June 2005 the Spanish parliament's approval of same-sex marriage. Photo: Pedro Armestre / AFP.

While the US grapples with its own countrywide stance on gay marriage, Spain made gay marriage legal in 2005. At that time, some states in the US had only just struck down bans against homosexual intercourse and conduct.

2. Spain loves gay people

Spain was ranked the most gay-friendly country in the entire world in the last Pew Research Center poll in 2013, with 88 percent of those surveyed responding "yes" to the question: Should society accept homosexuality?

In comparison, 60 percent of American respondents said yes to the same statement.

In a recent study, Spain was hailed as a 'model' nation for gay rights in Europe. The report from IGLA-Europe recognised Spain for laws pertaining to same-sex marriage, adoption, rights for transgender people, and more.

Additionally, capital Madrid and Barcelona are often rated in lists of the best travel destinations for LGBT people.

4. Discrimination is never OK

5. The gay pride parades are world-renowned
A gay pride parade in Madrid. Photo: Pierre-Philippe Marcou / AFP.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Five reasons why Spain is a great place to be gay

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Europride parade in Madrid. Photo: Bru Garcia / AFP. The Local takes a look some of the major advantages for the LGBT community in Spain. 1. Legalizing gay marriage was so last decade A group of celebrates in June 2005 the Spanish parliament's approval of same-sex marriage.

# data[].attributes.body
A wedding is an event that takes place in every country and each has their own cultural based traditions. Therefore I chose this topic to research as it would provide me with cultural insight to an important event for Spanish citizens, both past and present. The articles I read focused primarily on unique Spanish wedding practices and some of the more interesting ones I found, in contrast with western weddings, were the lack of speeches / groomsmen or bridesmaids, the best man picks out the bouquet, and the grooms tie is cut up and auctioned off. It is also worth noting that each site I visited held slightly different information and if anyone is interested in the topic I would encourage them to view more than just the link I posted.

Since each site I visited

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
There are many things which make Spanish weddings different from weddings in other parts of the world. Firstly the timing of a typical wedding day in Spain tends to be much later than in the US and Northern Europe, due to the local's desire to avoid the hot summer sunshine. Typically, the ceremony will be at 6 or 7 pm, and then the partying & fiesta will go on until 4 or 5 in the morning. At Barcelona Wedding we have a key role in advising our clients on the timing of their wedding day to best suit both their desires and the local climate. The ideal time of day for a wedding ceremony depends on many factors such as the planned location, and it is important to take the comfort of others in to consideration. Avoiding the midday sun is another aspect that has to be taken into account, as this will affect the wedding photography. Photographs are more flattering if the ceremony and post wedding photos are timed around the late afternoon or early evening shortly before the sunset, rather than earlier in the day, when everyone will be squinting, wanting to wear sunglasses, and strong shadows will be hard to avoid.

Spanish or Catalan brides & grooms would not normally have groomsmen, ushers, bridesmaids or flower girls. The couple's godparents (padrinos), however, will usually have an important role in the wedding. One of the best man's duties in Spain is to choose and buy the bride's wedding bouquet, and present it to her on the morning of the wedding - usually with a handwritten poem. Modern brides will understandably not want to leave the design and style of their wedding bouquet to the best man. You will however, find that the best man will carry out the task of delivering the bouquet with a heartfelt poem. This is a very lovely Spanish wedding tradition, that can easily be incorporated into our client's wedding day, depending on the best man's poetic talents, of course.

Even though bridesmaids & groomsmen are not a normal part of the Spanish wedding party, there is absolutely no problem in including them when you celebrate your wedding here in Barcelona. Similarly, if you would rather not have the extra costs associated with a large wedding party, the fact that they typically don't have bridesmaids in Spain, gives you the perfect excuse not to have any either if you do chose Barcelona as your wedding destination!

A Spanish wedding will also not have any speeches. The bride and groom may give some presents to their parents, but there will not be the traditional Father of the Bride, Groom or Best man speeches that are so instrumental in other parts of the world. Those that do go forward with speeches needn't worry about the timing of this special moment, as Barcelona Wedding take great care to ensure the catering staff, photographers & other providers on the day are in full understanding as to when the speeches are planned, their cultural importance to our clients, and how long they are likely to last, thus ensuring everything runs smoothly for our clients on their important day. Also as speeches are not a typical element in a Spanish wedding, there is the perfect excuse for couples not to have any, if they would prefer to not put people on the spot to give a speech on their special day. Though weddings in Spain traditionally skip the speeches section, they do incorporate fun traditions of giving muñecos , adding a little pressure to any unmarried couples that they feel should follow them next up the aisle!

One of the most popular additions to weddings to add a Spanish touch, is the addition of a Classical Spanish Guitar music whilst the amazingly lavish tapas are served during the aperitifs, we have also organised many amazing flamenco shows to add a bit of Spanish flare to the occasion. Barcelona Wedding has worked with Promusic Bcn who have always provided outstanding musicians for our events, at preferential rates for our clients.

We help advise clients, so that they have the wedding day of their dreams, making the most of the elements that they want to from Spanish culture and hopefully incorporating any wedding traditions that our diverse clientèle want to include from their own cultures.

We love to learn about the wonderful ways love is celebrated over the world, and hope to see more cultural diversity now destination weddings are increasing in popularity. This year we particularly look forward to the cake eating competition that our Bulgarian groom will be incorporating as a Bulgarian wedding tradition into his September wedding.

Helping couples truly individualise & personalise their wedding celebration is something that I have grown to love most about my work as a wedding planner.

Clare

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Barcelona Wedding, your beautiful wedding in Barcelona

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
There are many things which make Spanish weddings different from weddings in other parts of the world. Firstly the timing of a typical wedding day in Spain tends to be much later than in the US and Northern Europe, due to the local's desire to avoid the hot summer sunshine.

# data[].attributes.body
As i didn't really know much about Spain before taking this class I wanted to do a little reseaech about some stereotypes that I have heard. I came accross this article from the Huffington Post that tells us about 12 stereotypes about Spain that turn out to be true. The three stereotypes that I was not surprised about were the fact that Spanish love soccer, they cook very well and that they are very family oriented. I didn't really know much about the rest. Here is the link to the article:
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/24/spanish-stereotypes-true-_n_5837296.html

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
First, we debunked some of the stereotypes about the Spanish that are not true (you know: that we can all dance the flamenco; that we're all fans of bullfighting; that we only eat paella). But now, it's time to own up to the stereotypes that we have to admit ring true.

Unfortunately, languages don't come that easily to us, especially English. One of the reasons for this is that in Spain, films in most theaters are dubbed (as opposed to being in the original languages with subtitles), and that makes it difficult for us to develop a good ear and become familiar with the intonations of the language in question. We should also add that we're terribly afraid of looking ridiculous, which doesn't exactly push us towards trying out our new language skills. According to a study carried out by the OCU, nine out of every 10 Spaniards feels embarrassed when they communicate in English.

...and we'll do it at any time, day or night. But that doesn't mean we're drunks - it's just that alcohol (particularly wine) is a part of our culture. Also, let's be real: We have the best wine in the world.

On the weekends, our lunches can last so long that they become dinner! Nobody leaves without a full stomach. That's just a rule.
4. We're very family-oriented.
Whether it comes to enjoying a feast, going out to a party or even, if it just so happens, attending the Oscars-- family comes first. A shout out to our sister (Penélope Cruz), our mother (Javier Bardem) or any other close family member is a must.

We usually say that there's a bar for every local, and that's not as exaggerated as it seems. A study done by Coca-Cola in 2013 showed that there is one bar for every 132 inhabitants. In other words, there are a total of 350,000 bars for the 47.2 million inhabitants of the country. Pick your poison!

6. We cook well (very well).

In Spain we have a grand, rich and varied cuisine. Gazpacho, pisto, cocido, empanadas, octopus, migas... and, of course, the Spanish potato tortilla. Furthermore, we have 171 Michelin starred restaurants, of which 8 have the highest rating possible (three stars).

We like to give hugs. We kiss upon meeting new people, AND when we say goodbye. Also, we always kiss each other from right to left, exactly the opposite of the French, of course.

Sometimes we could be said to be screaming when talking.

We start the day very late, we eat lunch late, we eat dinner incredibly late, and we go to bed even later. When the rest of Europe has already been asleep for two hours, in Spain we're still watching films or a soccer match (games scheduled on Mondays at 10:00pm are not unusual).

For some reason, we don't know why, we can't help but be tardy all the time. It must be in our genes.

Everyone loves freebies, but we really love them. It doesn't particularly matter whether we even want or need the free item; we'll still wait in line for it cause it's FREE.

Just look at these photos from Madrid during the final game of the Champions League between Real Madrid and Atlético (also from Madrid) in Lisbon. The capital was totally deserted. Sort of how it was when we won the World Cup in South Africa. And a survey done by the IG-Investiga Institute determined that more than half of the country declares themselves avid fans of soccer (or, "the king sport").
This post is a translated and adapted version of El Huffington Post's original.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
12 Stereotypes About The Spanish That Are DEFINITELY True

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
First, we debunked some of the stereotypes about the Spanish that are not true (you know: that we can all dance the flamenco; that we're all fans of bullfighting; that we only eat paella). But now, it's time to own up to the stereotypes that we have to admit ring true.

# data[].attributes.body
I know that Spain has great Arab influence in a lot of it's architecture and even food because of the Muslim rule that lasted for centuries and is a crucial aspect of its development as a nation. I am also interested in the history of the Catalonian independence movement, and upon further research found out that Barcelona and other counties were founded by Charlemagne in an effort to establish a barrier between Muslim-ruled Spain and the Frankish empire. I had no idea! Catalonia as a region has a very interesting history and culture.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A chronology of key events:

9th cent ury - County of Barcelona formed along with several other counties as a result of efforts by Charlemagne to establish a buffer zone between his Frankish Empire and Muslim-ruled Spain.

1023-76 - Under Ramon Berenguer I, the county of Barcelona acquires a dominant position in the area.

12th cent - First mention of the term Catalonia.

1131-1162 - Reign of Ramon Berenguer IV, whose marriage to Queen Petronilla of Aragon results in the county's dynastic union with the Kingdom of Aragon. Although part of the Crown of Aragon, Catalonia keeps its own traditional rights and parliament, the Corts catalanes.

14th-15th cents - Aragon acquires the kingdoms of Sardinia, Sicily and Naples, becoming a major Mediterranean maritime empire as a result.

Integration into Spain

1469 - Ferdinand I of Aragon and Queen Isabella of Castile marry, creating a dynastic union of their kingdoms and laying the foundations of the Kingdom of Spain.

1492 - Discovery of the Americas by Christopher Columbus starts the creation of Spain's overseas empire, the shift of commercial activity from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic and the decline of Catalonia's economic and political importance.

1640-52 - The Reapers' War - Catalonia revolts against the taxation policies of Philip IV of Spain, is briefly declared a republic under French protection before being reoccupied by Spanish troops.

1705-14 - War of the Spanish Succession. Catalonia's support for rival claimant to the Spanish throne, Archduke Charles of Austria, of the House of Habsburg, against King Philip V, from the House of Bourbon, results in the suppression of its parliament and traditional liberties upon the latter's victory.

1716 - The Nueva Planta decree dismantles the separate Catalan legal system, brings Catalonia under direct rule from Madrid and abolishes the administrative use of the Catalan language.

1812-13 - Napoleon briefly annexes Catalonia to France, before French troops withdraw from Barcelona under an armistice signed with the Duke of Wellington.

1808-33 - Catalonia becomes the scene of some of the fiercest fighting of the First Carlist War between the liberal supporters of Queen Isabella II and the absolutist supporters of her uncle and rival, the Infante Carlos.

Rise of nationalist sentiment

19th cent - Catalonia is at the forefront of industrialisation in Spain and experiences a cultural renaissance; start of a movement to revive Catalan culture and language, leading to the rise of Catalan nationalism.

1901 - Formation of the Catalan nationalist Regionalist League.

1913 - The four provinces of Catalonia are given limited joint self-government in the Commonwealth of Catalonia under the leadership of Enric Prat de la Riba.

1925 - The Commonwealth is suppressed during the dictatorship of Spanish Prime Minister Miguel Primo de Rivera.

1931 - Spain becomes a republic; an autonomous Catalan regional government, the Generalitat, is created under the leadership of the Revolutionary Left of Catalonia.

1936 - Insurrection of Spanish nationalist troops led by Gen Francisco Franco sparks the Spanish Civil War. Catalonia remains loyal to the Republic, with both the Generalitat's regular forces and popular militias fighting on its side.

1938 - English author George Orwell publishes Homage to Catalonia, a memoir of his time fighting with left-wing Republican forces in the region.

1938-9 - Franco's forces overrun Catalonia, paving the way for the collapse of Republican resistance elsewhere in Spain.

1939-75 - Franco dictatorship; suppression of political opposition as well as Catalan autonomy, language and culture. Thousands of Catalan activists are executed or go into exile.

1960s - Catalonia benefits from the start of mass tourism in coastal Spain and increasing industrialisation. Barcelona attracts large numbers of migrants from other Spanish regions.

Autonomy restored

1975 - Death of Franco sets in train a process of democratisation under the new king, Juan Carlos.

1977 - Restoration of a provisional regional government, again named the Generalitat, under the leadership of Josep Tarradellas.

1978 - New democratic Spanish Constitution recognises existence of distinct national communities within Spain, start of the process of regionalisation.

1979 - Catalonia given a statute of autonomy and recognised as a "nationality". Catalan become the joint official language of Catalonia with Spanish.

1980 - Centre-right moderate nationalist Convergence and Union wins first elections to the new regional parliament. Its leader, Jordi Pujol, becomes the first president of the new regional government.

1992 July-August - Summer Olympic Games in Barcelona.

2003 - Jordi Pujol retires as president of the regional government, after 23 years in the post.

2003 November - Despite winning the largest number of seats in regional elections, Convergence and Union is ousted for the first time in 23 years by a coalition of Socialists, the Revolutionary Left and Greens. Socialist Pasqual Maragall becomes regional president.

2006 June - Pasqual Maragall stands down, is replaced by fellow Socialist Jose Montilla.

2006 August - Reformed version of Catalonia's autonomy statute comes into force, giving the regional government greater powers and financial autonomy. Its preamble also uses the word "nation" to describe Catalonia.

Economic crisis

2009 December - Between December 2009 and April 2011, Catalan nationalists hold a series of informal, non-binding votes on independence in regional towns and cities, including the capital Barcelona.

2010 July - Constitutional Court in Madrid strikes down part of the 2006 autonomy statute, ruling that there is no legal basis for recognising Catalonia as a nation within Spain and that Catalan should not take precedence over Castilian in the region. The decision is criticised by the regional government.

Regional parliament votes to ban bullfighting, making Catalonia the first region of mainland Spain to do so.

2010 November - The centre-right nationalists Convergence and Union - led by Artur Mas returns to power after regional elections.

2011 September - Ban on bullfighting comes into force in Catalonia.

2012 August - Catalonia asks the Spanish government for a 5bn-euro bailout.

2012 September - Some 1.5m people take part in Catalonia's annual independence rally in Barcelona, amid growing Catalan anger at financial transfer from the region to the rest of Spain.

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy rebuffs a call by regional leader Artur Mas for greater fiscal independence.

2012 November - Snap elections held to provide support for a referendum on independence see the governing Convergence and Union losing ground to the left-wing Republican Left (ERC) party. Both support independence but the ERC opposes the Catalan government's spending cuts.
Pro-independence moves
2012 December - Regional head Artur Mas is re-elected after his Convergence and Union signs a governing pact with the left-wing ERC. Both parties support holding a referendum on secession from Spain in 2014.

2013 January - Catalonia's regional parliament approves a "declaration of sovereignty" aimed at paving the way for a referendum on independence from Spain in 2014.

2014 March - Spain's constitutional court rules that a planned referendum in November on Catalonia's independence is unconstitutional.

2014 April - Spanish parliament rejects proposal by Catalonia's regional assembly to hold a referendum on independence in November.

2014 September - Regional President Artur Mas signs a decree calling for a non-binding referendum on independence to take place in November. Spain's constitutional court suspends the plans, saying it needs time to consider the vote's constitutionality.

2014 October - Regional President Artur Mas insists a non-binding referendum on independence for the region in November will go ahead, but under a different legal framework, after the original plan was ruled unconstitutional.

2014 November - More than 80% of those taking part in a non-binding informal vote on separation from Spain opt for independence. About two million out of 5.4 million eligible voters cast ballots.

2015 January - Regional President Artur Mas calls new regional elections for 27 September to gauge support for a possible declaration of independence.

Collision course

2015 September - Separatist parties win the regional election, which they say gives them a mandate to push for independence.

2015 November - Catalonia's parliament adopts a resolution which supports independence.

2015 December - Spain's constitutional court revokes Catalonia's bid to begin the process of separating from the rest of Spain.

2016 January - Regional assembly chooses staunch separatist Carles Puigdemont to head government.

2017 March - A court bars the former leader of Catalonia, Artur Mas, from public office for two years for staging the 2014 referendum.

2017 October - Spanish police disrupt a planned independence referendum, injuring hundreds of people. The vote backs separation from Spain, and the government declares independence. Spain imposes direct rule.

2017 December - Pro-independence parties win a majority in Catalan elections called by the Spanish government, although a pro-Madrid party emerges as the single largest group in the regional parliament.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A chronology of key events: 9th cent ury - County of Barcelona formed along with several other counties as a result of efforts by Charlemagne to establish a buffer zone between his Frankish Empire and Muslim-ruled Spain. 1023-76 - Under Ramon Berenguer I, the county of Barcelona acquires a dominant position in the area.

# data[].attributes.headline
Spanish population and their growing distrust in the Spanish government

# data[].attributes.subject
Spanish population and their growing distrust in the Spanish government

# data[].attributes.body
I researched the topic, as I was surprised by the high numbers of corruption found in the article by thelocal.es. I found some interesting facts on a PEW research done that found that not only were the people of Catalonia dissatisfied, but a large population of Spain was found dissatisfied with how Democracy was being played out in their country. The Catalans are in dispute with the Spanish government and have voted for independence.  With widespread high unemployment rates in Spain, Catalonia has some of the lowest unemployment rates, and produces the highest GDP yet pays soring taxes.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Catalonia's recent secession attempts come at a difficult time for Spain. Across the country, people distrust the national government and feel dissatisfied with the way democracy is working in their nation. And Catalans are even more negative on these issues than those living in other regions of Spain, according to a new analysis of data from a Pew Research Center survey conducted in March and April.

An overwhelming majority of the Spanish public (81%) does not trust the national government to do the right thing for their country. In Catalonia, this figure reaches 91%, including 53% who say they do not trust Madrid at all. In other regions of Spain, 79% lack trust in their government and only about four-in-ten express absolutely no trust.

Spanish people are also unhappy about their democracy. Overall, 74% say they are dissatisfied with the way democracy is working in their nation. Among Catalans, this figure is 81%, with 41% saying they are not at all satisfied. While 73% of people living in other regions of Spain are dissatisfied with democracy, only 28% feel this way strongly.

Catalonia's independence referendum has been controversial, but the Spanish public is quite positive on direct democracy in general. Three-quarters believe that a system where citizens, not elected officials, vote directly on major national issues to decide what becomes law would be a good way to govern their country. People living outside of Catalonia are in agreement with their Catalan counterparts on this issue (74% versus 79%, respectively).

Catalonia is a major driver of Spanish economy

Catalans and other Spanish people also agree that the nation's economy is doing badly. Across Spain, 71% hold this view, including two-thirds in Catalonia.

One aspect of the debate over the recent referendum is whether Catalonia would benefit economically by breaking away from Spain. Catalonia's economy consistently outperforms the Spanish economy as a whole. The region accounts for roughly one-fifth of Spain's gross domestic product (approximately 212 billion euros in 2016) and 16% of the population. Its only rival is the region that is home to Madrid, which accounts for about as much of Spain's GDP as Catalonia (approximately 211 billion euros in 2016) and 14% of the population.

Catalans also enjoy an unemployment rate well below the national average - just 13.2%, compared with 17.2% for Spain as a whole. However, Catalans pay for their relative prosperity in spending imbalances. They pay about 10 billion euros more in taxes than they get back in government spending, a long-term point of contention in Catalonia's relationship with Spain's national government.

Topics: Europe, International Governments and Institutions, World Economies

Dorothy Manevich is a research analyst focusing on global attitudes at Pew Research Center.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Dissatisfaction was widespread in Spain even before Catalan secession vote

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Catalonia's recent secession attempts come at a difficult time for Spain. Across the country, people distrust the national government and feel dissatisfied with the way democracy is working in their nation. And Catalans are even more negative on these issues than those living in other regions of Spain, according to a new analysis of data from a Pew Research Center survey conducted in March and April.

# data[].attributes.body
The Feria season by far has to be my favorite season of the year. It is similar to what county/state fairs are in the US. There are many Ferias throughout the county of Spain, however, if I had to choose one Feria to recommend to go to, I have to say the Feria de Jerez. This Feria is probably the most traditional Ferias in Spain. One could see the many horses and carriages parading around the Feria grounds as well as a plethora of people dressed in traditional Feria dresses in various different forms and fashions as well as the traditional male horse riding attire. There are rides, casetas (party tents that often times serve food, drinks, and play music), various fair games, and just an overall great experience for both families and young adults alike! I hope you enjoy the read!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Introducing the Feria de Jerez, also known by the locals as the Feria del Caballo (Horse Fair) which happens each year around May, and is one of the most important regional celebrations in the famous Sherry producing town of Jerez de la Frontera.

The sights and sounds of the feria are a joy to the senses and once you enter the feria grounds at the Gonzalo Hontoria Fairgrounds, it only begs the question, which bit of the 52,000 square metre show ground do you start with?

500 years of history and culture go into each modern Feria and for aficionados of all things Spain and Spanish, you simply can't beat a good Spanish feria, in fact whereas the Seville feria, one month earlier is often reserved for private groups in their little casetas, home from home, the casetas (or large decorated party tents a little bit like a marquee tent) at the Jerez feria are open to the public and it makes for a more inclusive feel for visitors too!

In these casetas, and at all times of the day and night, revellers drink fino sherry, although more recently there is trend is to mix the sherry with lemonade and ice cubes which creates a refreshing cocktail known as Rebujito.

But enough about drinking, and on with the show!

The Jerez Feria 2013

The feria has something for everyone, yes even people who never drink sherry or in fact don't care much for horses! Although saying that, there is plenty to tempt you to try a nice cool sherry, and as we are slap bang in the heart of Sherry production, you can be assured of the highest quality and the widest range to choose from.

The feria runs from the 6th to the 12th of May this year although the day before, on the 5th of May, when the final preparations are being made, there is a competition of the sorts that until now I had never even heard of!

The Concurso Nacional de Acoso y Derribo, is actually a display of cow herding, Andalusian style, and the horses and riders gallop around herding cows in various ways and using very different methods, to show off their cowboy skills, in fact although the feria has not yet started, it is certainly worth watching, in fact how these men keep on their horses with such sharp manoeuvres, twists and turns, I first thought they had glued their boots to the stirrups but alas no!

The start of the feria.

The first day you enter the feria, through the bustling and heaving crowds, you will notice that most of the locals are bedecked in splendour, in traditional flamenco dresses, with the important accoutrements that belong with the style, so even the most distracted visitor will you know they are in for a treat as soon as they arrive.

There is simply LOADS to do, from eating the finest tapas, drinking the best sherry (or a beer!), watching authentic Flamenco, seeing amazing horsemanship, and above all, mingling with people who are passionate about who they are, where they live and what they do!

What's on at the feria this year?

From the 7th to 12th May, there are fantastic and colourful processions of Horses and Carriages around the Fairground and they are available to see at around 1pm, and then later on at 7pm, and with the hot sun, the latter one is usually the preferred one, especially if you have children with you.

At the location of the stud farm, in Spanish, the rather disgustingly titled Depósito de Sementales (Please don't ask me to translate that!) we find the National Competition of Doma vaquera, which is the Spanish version of dressage.

This begins on the 8th of May at 11 am and the next day at 1pm.

The 9th -12th May we see what is known as the Morphologic Awards take place, which is best described as a "Best of breed" type show and various experts pour their eyes over the best breeds that the area has to offer, and a hark back in time to the origins of the show 500 years ago where horse traders met at Jerez, and a competition was born.

The 11th of the May at the aforementioned stud farm nearby, we see another competition but this time it's the carriages and not the animals who are on show. A prize is awarded for the best.

The horsey type shows and activities more or less end around now, with the 12th of May seeing a huge prize giving ceremony, again, located at the stud farm area.

What else can you do if you don't care much for horses?

LOTS!

The feria is a showcase of all the best bits of the area and there are certainly more than enough "bits" to go around to suit anyone, with lots of other things to do if horses and sherry aren't your thing. For example, and especially as we are in Andalusia, dancing is the order of the day, and expect to see a lot of dancing shows and competitions, plus some amazing flamenco music too.

Of course the commercial aspects of the feria do not go unnoticed and there are lots of stalls and shops selling all manner of stuff, from professional horse tack and wear, livery items, grooming and veterinary outlets, to of course Sherry sales, from the local bodegas, some famous brands, and some smaller, family run ones too.

If flamenco is your thing that there are many places where you can buy your very own flamenco dress, either off-the-peg, or to have one professionally made and fitted for you. Dance classes are also sometimes available and if you fancy swinging your hips, Spanish style, this could be the gig you have been waiting for!

Like most other ferias or show-grounds of it's type, there is of course the usual fun of the fair stuff such as rides, candy floss, toffee apples, all the real traditional stuff you would expect, and of course during a feria week, not much sleeping gets done, so expect huge and flamboyant firework displays most evenings too.

Feel like you are there already!

Last year the Jerez tourism board put together this great video, so have a break from reading, and watch this before you carry on!
(official tourist video, (C) Jerez tourism)
As you can see from the video, it is vibrant, colourful, interesting, fun, fascinating, breathtaking and a real celebration of all things Andalusian.

Discover the finest Sherry in the world

Something that surprises many first time visitors to Jerez is the fact that the town has a long standing connection with the United Kingdom. British merchants have been involved in the wine trade here for centuries, producing and shipping a fortified wine known as sherry.

Famous names of these dynasties can be seen here over the doors of the enticing bodegas; Sandeman, John Harvey, Domecq, Gonzalez Byass and so on.

Walk anywhere in the town and your nose immediately catches a whiff of Sherry, it's all around here and you can't avoid it, but why would you want to?

The town of Jerez itself is a must-see if you are planning to visit the feria this year and there is of course plenty to do and see when you get here.

The magnet for most British tourists when they arrive is to head for the La Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre, the horse school, located in Avda. Duque de Abrantes, (Tel: 956 319 635) where you can see the finest Andalusian horses and a fantastic display of "Doma" which is Spanish for Dressage, and the fantastic things these horses and their riders can do, you really don't need to be an equestrian type to enjoy it!

After the show, you can take a stroll around the grounds of a fantastic palace (above), a testimony to the wealth that sherry brought to the area, and of course the grounds contain an extensive botanical garden, plus a museum too, various places for refreshments and of course for the horsey types, there does exist opportunities to get up close to them too.

All in all, a trip to Jerez for the horse fair is one of those things that you really "have" to do. The sights, the sounds, the smells, the atmosphere, the passion.

How to get to Jerez

Jerez has, rather conveniently, a small airport serving the town although flights during off peak seasons are limited but Ryanair has a service from London Stanstead, and there are also flights form German and Spanish airports too.

To arrive by road, you can take the E-5 motorway from Seville, or from the south, the AP-4 from Gibraltar. There are also high speed trains available from Madrid, getting you there in style and great for connecting flights to elsewhere in Europe and the rest of the world.

More information on any aspect of visiting Jerez can be found at the Jerez Tourist Information Office, which is situated at the Plaza del Arenal, Edificio Los Arcos in the centre of the town. They can be called on (0034) 956338874, or 956341711, and their Fax number is 956341711

Where to stay in Jerez

Jerez has some wonderful places to stay, like for example this townhouse right in the centre of the wonderful old town, or maybe if you are on a budget, what about this lovely little place, again right in the heart of town and available from only £259 a week!

If money is no option then try this lovely accommodation right in the centre, namely off of Calle Porvera, one of the main streets in the historical centre,making it conveniently placed to explore the area on foot. The apartment is very modern and luxurious and offers a very comfortable stay in Jerez. It is on the first floor of an 18th century town-house that has retained its original stone arches and high ceilings

Or if none of these suggestions are any good, expand your accommodation search in Jerez by browsing this list.

Encanto: Buy the book!

This year a group of authors and self confessed Spain addicts have put together a sumptuous book celebrating the sights and sounds of the Feria and it is being launched on May 7th at the Sandeman caseta.

Whereas the Feria de Sevilla is a party where beautiful people come and present their horses, the Feria de Jerez is a festival where the most beautiful horses almost represent themselves. Lovers of the Equestrian art come together to admire the tradition and culture of breeding Andalusian horses, animals that are favourite for their elegance, sensitivity and passion.

Where so much beauty is celebrated, artistic souls feel drawn to it. An inspired group of writers, journalists and painters created a colourful book about the Horse Fair of Jerez. This 72 page book called Encanto consists of passionate paintings by French artist Gerard Mignot, Helen Mignot, Belgian travel photographer Cedric Garcia, German journalist and horse lover Gabriele Hefele and the American journalist Derrick Jenkins.
The book launch venue will be the caseta in the feria of the 200 years old Sherry trading company George Sandeman.
The company is world famous and their Sherry bodega is just opposite the Horse Riding School in the beautiful building Recreo de las Cadenas, so the perfect place to celebrate and invite for an official representation.

Spain-Holiday.com supports the artists with spreading the word. Sandemans motto"Famous for Pleasure" is perfect for what you can expect in Jerez.

Join the meeting of happy hedonists who are thankful for the wonders and beauty of life.

And in a Spain-Holiday.com exclusive, you can now CLICK HERE AND BUY THE BOOK!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Horses and Sherry! The sights, sounds and smells of the Jerez Feria

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Introducing the Feria de Jerez, also known by the locals as the Feria del Caballo (Horse Fair) which happens each year around May, and is one of the most important regional celebrations in the famous Sherry producing town of Jerez de la Frontera.

# data[].attributes.body
The gypsies that have been living for centuries in southern Spain have had a big cultural influence. One of the best known things is flamenco. I didn’t know that there were different types of flamenco dancing. Sevillanas are better known and are considered to be more of a neutral dance.  I mostly interested in Bulerías. It’s the fastest type of flamenco and has a cycle of 12 beats. I didn’t know that it’s also associated with Jerez de la Frontera. When I think of Jerez, usually think that they are well known for their wine. I picked it because I think that flamenco is a very beautiful dance.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Differences Between the 5 Most Popular Flamenco Dances

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
No one flamenco dance is the same. Take a look at the main differences between the 5 most popular flamenco dances out there.