In the latest episode of Spanish Loops, Jorge and Fran unravel the golden threads of one of Spain's most treasured gems, saffron!  Let them immerse you into the captivating history of this spice, from its ancient origins to its revered status as "red gold."  Learn the art of saffron cultivation, the precise timing of its autumn harvest, and the meticulous handpicking that defines its exceptional quality. The duo explores its essential role in Spanish gastronomy, from infusing iconic dishes...

Welcome back to Spanish Loops! Fran and Jorge are thrilled to announce today’s episode, taking you on a hilarious ride through the world of language quirks. This time, they’re tackling those wonderfully weird expressions that sound perfectly normal in one language but become absolutely bizarre when translated word-for-word into the other. Ever tried explaining 'Monkey see, monkey do' in Spanish? Or how about 'Eres la leche' in English? Yep, these idioms will leave you laughing and...

Welcome back to Spanish Loops! In this week’s episode, Jorge and Fran talk about the fascinating world of Spain's historic monasteries. From the breath taking architecture to their pivotal roles in history, monasteries across Spain hold centuries of secrets and stories waiting to be explored. Our hosts will take you on a tour of the most significant ones, from the famous Monastery of El Escorial to the serene Monastery of Montserrat, sharing their insights on why these sites are so...

Hello, Spanish Loops listeners!  Get ready for a heartfelt journey into Spain's cherished tradition, Día de Todos los Santos, or All Saints’ Day.  In this episode, we’ll explore the rich history and customs behind this revered holiday. Join us as we uncover the origins of this national holiday and how Spaniards honor and remember loved ones who have passed.  From vibrant cemetery visits adorned with flowers to touching family gatherings, discover why this day holds such a special place in...

In this unique episode, Jorge and Francisco take you on a fascinating journey back in time to the final years of Franco’s dictatorship in Spain, spanning from 1970 to 1982. Ever wondered what everyday life was like for kids and teenagers during that era? They’ll go deep into the education system, social norms, and share incredible anecdotes that paint a vivid picture of growing up under such unique circumstances. Get ready to learn the cultural and political shifts of a country on the...

New Spanish Loops episode is LIVE! This week, over the celebration of this Saint, Jorge and Fran run deep into the incredible life of Santa Teresa de Jesús—one of the most fascinating figures in history!  From her childhood dreams, to becoming a true icon of the Church, this episode explores not only her spiritual journey but also her human side. Discover how she shaped the world, her resilience, and what made her so much more than just a religious figure. If you're curious about her...

New program on Spanish Loops!! We talk and explore the captivating life of Antonio Gaudí.  An architect in World's history books.  Antonio Gaudí was born in 1852 in Reus and faced health challenges during his childhood days. However these struggles nurtured his appreciation for nature that significantly impacted his organic architectural approach later on.  His architectural career took off after he completed his studies in Barcelona where his innovative designs grabbed the interest of...

How fascinating is the history of the Spanish missions established by the Crown of Castile in the Americas.  From the very first mission in Florida to the northern reaches of San Francisco, these church and military outposts played a pivotal role in Spain’s colonization efforts.  The primary goal was twofold: to spread Christianity among indigenous populations and to solidify Spanish control over vast territories. While the missions were instrumental in reshaping the cultural and religious...

In this episode of Spanish Loops, the focus shifts to the origins and expansion of the Inquisition across Europe, beginning with the French Inquisition.  This system of religious persecution was initially established in the 12th century to combat heresy, primarily targeting the Cathars.  The episode then delves into how the Spanish Inquisition emerged in the late 15th century, notably under the reign of Ferdinand and Isabella. Spain's iteration became notorious for its intensity, driven by...

In our latest Spanish Loops program, we talk about the rich history of Mérida, the former capital of the Roman province of Lusitania. Established by Emperor Augustus, this strategic city played a key role for Roman troops traveling north and south through the Iberian Peninsula, thanks to its position on the Guadiana River. Today, Mérida stands as a testament to Roman engineering, housing one of the largest ancient complexes outside Rome and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Join us as we...

In the next chapter of Spanish Loops, we explore the Spanish Popes and the powerful influence of the infamous Borgia family. Among the most notorious, Rodrigo Borgia, who became Pope Alexander VI, played a pivotal role in shaping both papal and Spanish history. His reign aligned with the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, during a time of monumental change, including the Reconquista and the discovery of the New World. The Borgia family’s power, ambition, and corruption left a...

Today, Spanish Loops gets into the timeless classic “Don Quijote de la Mancha”.  We explore how this monumental work has influenced literature worldwide, from shaping the modern novel to inspiring countless adaptations. Learn about the life of its creator, Miguel de Cervantes, whose experiences and unique perspective gave birth to one of the most enduring characters in literary history. Don’t miss this journey through the pages of a masterpiece that continues to resonate across cultures...

In this episode of Spanish Loops, we explore the fascinating story of the Sagrada Familia Church in Barcelona, a masterpiece by the visionary architect Antoni Gaudí. We trace the humble beginnings of this iconic temple and how Gaudí devoted his life to transforming it into one of the most unique and awe-inspiring structures in the world. From his deep religious faith to his groundbreaking designs, Gaudí's passion for the Sagrada Familia was unmatched, making it the heart of his life's work....

In our next episode of Spanish Loops, we talk about the rich history of Santander, a city that’s seen it all, from the Neolithic era to the rise and fall of empires. We'll explore its ancient roots, from the Visigoths to the trading  influence, and how the marriage of Spanish and British royalty forged strong ties with the UK. This connection helped Santander become home to one of the world’s wealthiest families, founders of Banco de Santander. Join us as we unravel the fascinating...

In the 1830s, Spain and Mexico signed a treaty to recognize Mexico's independence. Spain had been weakened by wars and Mexico needed to be seen as a legitimate country. Important people in making the treaty were Lucas Alamán and the local priest Miguel Hidalgo from Mexico, and Francisco Pizarro Martinez from Spain sent by Queen Isabel II. The treaty encouraged improvements over diplomatic relations and trading. For Mexico, it confirmed their independence and helped them build...

In this latest chapter of Spanish Loops, we talk about the hot topic of illegal immigration in Spain. We look at how Spain's situation compares to other countries and see how Spanish authorities are handling it. This episode highlights the heartbreaking reality for those seeking a better life. Join us for a deep dive into the struggles and hopes of immigrants and what it means for society. Don't miss out!

Exciting New Episode Alert! Join us on this latest episode as we dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of the Mediterranean Sea. From the ancient Phoenicians to modern-day influences, we explore how this iconic body of water has shaped civilizations and lifestyles across its shores. Discover the diverse flora, fauna, gastronomy,  the historical significance of the Mediterranean in the Bible, and the development of numbering systems and alphabets that originated here. We also delve...

On this journey we go to the charming city of Saint Jean de Luz! Nestled on the Basque coast, this picturesque town is rich in history and culture. Discover the story of the grand Royal Wedding of Louis XIV, the Sun King, who chose this enchanting locale for his marriage to Maria Theresa of Spain. We'll delve into the city's strategic importance, trading history, its stunning coastal beauty, and its deep-rooted Basque traditions that continue to thrive today. Whether you like history,...

Let's learn about the incredible journey of blood and organ transplants in Spain on this new episode! Discover how these life-saving procedures have shaped our national healthcare system and the lives they touch every day. From the first successful kidney transplant in 1965 to the pioneering liver transplants in the 1980s, Spain has made remarkable strides.  How many personal accounts from transplant recipients and how these procedures transformed their lives! Understand the role of the...

New episode of Spanish Loops! Today, we get into the life of Saint John of the Cross, born Juan de Yepes y Álvarez in 1542 in Fontiveros, Spain. From a humble beginning, John faced hardship early on, losing his father at a young age. Despite these challenges, he pursued a religious life, joining the Carmelite Order in 1563. John met Saint Teresa of Ávila in 1567, and together they sought to reform the Carmelite Order, which led to severe opposition. He suffered imprisonment and harsh...

New program!! Today, we talk about the thrilling world of professional cycling with a detailed comparison of the Tour de France and La Vuelta a España! We explore the rich history of these two iconic races, tracing their origins and evolution over the decades. From the grueling mountain stages of the Pyrenees and the Alps to the sun-drenched roads of Spain, discover what makes each race unique. We also highlight the best riders who have left their mark, including legends like Miguel...

In this new program of Spanish Loops, we plummet into the magical Night of Saint John, a beloved tradition in Spain marking the start of summer. This ancient celebration, with roots in pagan rituals, is held on June 23rd. Originating from the worship of the sun and fire, it's a night filled with vibrant festivities. Across Spain, from coastal cities like bustling metropolises like Barcelona to Alicante and Málaga, people gather around bonfires on the beach, symbolizing purification and...

New and exciting episode of Spanish Loos! This time, we're sinking into a true Spanish treasure: the Iberian Ham. Known for its unparalleled flavour and texture, Iberian ham is a delicacy crafted through centuries-old traditions. We’ll discuss different varieties of Spanish ham, from the popular Serrano to the luxurious Jamón Ibérico, highlighting what makes each one unique. Learn about the special breed of black Iberian pigs, their acorn-rich diet, and the meticulous curing process that...

New program on Spanish Loops! In our latest chapter, we talk about the Treaty of Tordesillas, a pivotal moment in world history. Signed in 1494, this treaty divided the newly discovered lands outside Europe between Spain and Portugal along a meridian 370 leagues west of the Green Cape Islands, Portuguese territory at the time. This bold move by the two seafaring giants of the time reshaped global politics, economy, religion and exploration. Discover how this division influenced the fate...