10 Surprising Facts About the Culture of Spain You Never Knew
Have you ever been intrigued by the beauty and diversity of Spanish culture? Spain is a land of rich history, vibrant art, delicious food, and passionate people. Whether you are planning a trip to Spain or simply interested in its culture, you will be amazed to discover these ten surprising facts about the land of the bullfight.
1. Flamenco is not the only music genre in Spain
When we think of Spanish music, we often imagine Flamenco, the famous dance style that originated in Andalusia. Although Flamenco is an important part of the Spanish culture, it is not the only music genre in the country. Spain is also home to other fascinating styles such as classical music, pop, rock, and hip hop.
2. Spain is home to three of the world’s greatest museums
Spain is a hub of art, and it is home to three of the world’s most renowned museums: The Prado Museum in Madrid, The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, and The Picasso Museum in Barcelona. These museums house some of the most magnificent art collections in the world, including works by Velásquez, Goya, Picasso, and Dalí.
3. Siesta is not always a part of Spanish culture
Many of us have heard of the Spanish siesta, the afternoon nap known to be an essential part of the Spanish lifestyle. However, this habit is not necessarily practiced across the country and is more common in the south than in the north.
4. Spain has the highest number of bars per capita in the world
Do you know that Spain has the highest number of bars per capita in the world? In Spain, bars are called “bares” or “tabernas,” and they are the social hubs of the community. You can enjoy delicious tapas, local wine, and beer while making friends with the locals.
5. Spain has 44 UNESCO World Heritage sites
Spain boasts a rich cultural heritage and has 44 UNESCO World Heritage sites, the second-highest in the world. These sites include breathtaking landmarks such as the Alhambra in Granada, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, and the historic city of Toledo.
6. Spanish is the second-most spoken language in the world
Spanish is the second-most spoken language in the world after Mandarin. It is the official language of over 20 countries, including Spain, Mexico, and Argentina, and is spoken by over 580 million people globally.
7. Spanish people invented the mop and the stapler
Did you know that the mop and the stapler were invented by Spanish people? The mop, known as the “fregona,” was invented by a man named Manuel Jalón in 1956, while the stapler was invented by an architect named Juan Jorge Rico in 1918.
8. Spanish cuisine varies by region
Spanish cuisine is as diverse as the regions from which it comes. Each region of Spain has its own unique dishes and ingredients. For example, Catalonia is famous for its seafood paella, while Valencia is known for its paella Valenciana, made with rabbit and snails.
9. Spain is the third-largest producer of wine in the world
Spain is the third-largest producer of wine in the world, after Italy and France. Wine has been produced in Spain since ancient times, and the country has over 70 wine regions. Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Priorat are some of the most famous wine regions in Spain.
10. Spanish festivals are a riot of color and joy
Spain is famous for its vibrant and colorful festivals that take place throughout the year. From the running of the bulls in Pamplona to the La Tomatina festival in Buñol, these festivals are a riot of color, music, and joy, and attract visitors from all over the world.
In conclusion, Spain is a treasure trove of history, culture, art, food, and music. This land of passionate people has much to offer, and these ten surprising facts about its culture are just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a curious onlooker, Spain is a country that will leave a lasting impression on you.
