Distinctive Tradition & Culture Practices

History

The Iberian Peninsula, where Spain is located, once was a part of the Roman Empire before it
came under the control of the Visigoths. The region was later conquered by the Moors of North
Africa around the 8th century. Moorish and Visigoth cultures merged for several hundred years
until a united group of Catholic monarchs waged a successful campaign against the Moors and
reconquered its lands. Spain progressed and prospered during colonial times as it reaped the
riches of its exploits in the Americas, only to see its power recede as many of the colonies
achieved independence. Spain has been through its fair share of ups and downs since then, but
these periods in history have left permanent marks on the social and cultural identity of the
country.

Bullfighting

Bullfighting is one of the more prominent customs in Spain. This bloody sport developed as an
evolution of ancient Roman gladiator games, pitting human matadors against bulls. Embraced by
older generations as a quintessential element of Spanish culture, bullfighting has been protested
by younger generations and animal-rights activists who decry it as brutal and immoral. Either
way, it remains an iconic part of the country. Bullfights take place in many Spanish towns and
cities, although the most famous bullrings can be found in Madrid, Seville, Ronda, Valencia,
Barcelona and Pamplona.

La Siesta

La siesta is another well-known aspect of Spanish culture. Seeking to balance work with pleasure,
Spaniards long have practiced the tradition of siesta, when students and professionals return to
their homes around midday for a few hours of rest and family time, along with a big lunch. Many
businesses shut down for a short spell. However, 21st-century Spain gradually has moved away
from this tradition. Big cities move at the faster pace akin to other western countries--but many
people in smaller towns and villages still take a siesta each day.
Dining Traditions

Spanish dining traditions focus on lunch as the primary meal of the day. Breakfast and dinner
often are small affairs, giving way to a big family lunch. This is especially true on Sundays,
when families tend to convene for an afternoon of food and socializing. Dinner may take place as
late as 9 or 10 p.m., although many Spaniards opt to go out for tapas. Tapas essentially are little
pieces of bread topped with ingredients such as meats, cheese and olives. They make a nice
snack when combined with a glass of wine or sherry.

Nightlife

Spanish nightlife has a reputation for flair. Bars and clubs often stay open until the wee hours of
the morning, allowing energetic youths to drink and dance the night away. Most Spaniards don't
even go out until 11 p.m. or midnight, and they often stay out until dawn. Of course, this only
holds true in big cities and party locales such as Ibiza and Malaga. Smaller towns are more
reserved and low-key. Tourists in southern Spain also may enjoy the region's flamenco bars.
Spawned by gypsies, this traditional dance music has grown into one of the nation's most
recognizable art forms.

Spain's culture and customs play a major role in attracting the throngs of tourists that flock to this
Iberian nation. Moorish palaces and Gothic cathedrals stand in stark contrast to the modern
buildings of metropolises such as Barcelona and Madrid. Remote Spanish towns ooze history
and pastoral charm, while bigger cities bustle with action and entertainment. Each region of
Spain has its own unique traditions, but several widely practiced customs stand out as iconic
symbols for the country as a whole.