Aspectos de La Cultura

Qué tal chic@s

Thank you so much for your comments and questions this week! I loved getting to know all of you a little better. I enjoyed discovering some of your personal values and seeing how that reflects your culture. As you all know, I was lucky enough to travel to one of the most culturally rich cities in Spain this weekend: Sevilla. I really couldn't believe how beautiful it was there! I definitely was able to observe and immerse myself in the authentic Spanish culture that is living and breathing in this beautiful city. 

The first night we went to a Flamenco show. Wow. I was amazed at the talent, practice, and skill involved in this performance. There was a guitar and two people clapping with the dancers. The two dancers, one male and one female, filled the room with complex rhythms using their stomping steps. Along with the technical skill of the dance, the dancers incorporated so much emotion into their performance. Flamenco is a dance full of of passion, pain, and energy. It was as if the dancers where telling a story with their moves and expressions. The theater was full of nearly 100 Spanish locals of all ages. This seemed to be a customary outing for the people of Sevilla. I could see myself getting accustomed to something like that! 

The next few days of my trip were filled with sight seeing. I loved hearing the historical explanations behing the architecture and art. Here are a few highlights of the places I saw!

Catedral de Sevilla 

La Catedral de Sevilla is the third largest cathedral in the world. It was absolutely amazing. There were many toursits there but I found countless practicing Catholics in the various chambers of the cathedral seemingly practicing their weekly Sunday routine. The Cathedral was originally built as an Islamic house of worship but with the expulsion of the Arabic community in the 1400's the building was restored and expanded into the cathedral that exists today. Inside the cathedral there are countless statues of past Kings, religious figures, and even the burial site of Christopher Columbus! The detail and sentiment behind every structure and wall was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. 

Alcázar

This is where Royalty live when they travel to Sevilla. I definitely wouldn't mind staying here a few nights (or years). The entire place was a giant labyrinth of gardens, ponds, lavish rooms, and gorgeous decorations. The influence of Arabic architecture and style was greatly represented here. It was marvelous!  

Last but not least: La Plaza de España

This ancient piece of architecture quite literally left me speachless. I was in awe by the enormity and beautfy of this beautiful palace. 

 Both in Sevilla and Alicante, it has become apparent to me that history and tradition play a very large role in their culture. A few of you have asked me questions about daily routines and customes here. Even these are influenced in a historical way. The meals in Spain are scheduled very differently than in most places. 

Desayuno: 9:00 am. This usually consists of a small coffee with milk and a cookie or muffin

Almuerzo: 12:00 pm. Most people skip this meal, but it usually includes a light snack of fruit and cookies.

Comida: 2:00-3:00 pm. This is the largest meal of the day and sometimes includes 5 to 6 different plates. From 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm you will find most stores closed because everyone is at home eating la comida. This is a highly valued time for families during the day here.

Merienda: 6:00-7:00 pm. A small sandwhich and a coffee is customary during this time of the day. Like Almuerzo, many people skip this meal as well.

Cena: 9:00- 10:00 pm Unlike the US dinner here is very late and very small. A few small tapas are usually served with wine. 

The most interesting thing about this abnormal schedule is its origin. During the Franco dictatorship working long hours was vital to the survival of families. Heat is a large factor in physical labor and led to unproductivity. Franco decided to change the Spanish clock and create a long break followed by a long night of work. While many people don't still work these long hours they still adhere to the strict siesta policy in Spain. I must say, I don't mind at all! 

Now that I've shared a few aspects of Spanish culture I'd love for you to think about a few things. Can you think of an activity, like the flamenco, that is culturally relevant in the US? The Arabic presence in Spain until the 1400's was very influential; can you think of another country that has influenced the American culture? What is the general daily schedule of an American citizen? What does it revolve around and what is it influenced by? Think about these things and I would love to hear a few of your thoughts! 

Hasta luego

Jordan