Spanish Loops

Hola! This are Jorge Román and Fran Glaría, your passport to the hidden stories behind Spain’s stone and stained glass. Today on Spanish Loops we are talking to a subject that is as old as civilization and twice as dramatic: what makes a churchdifferent from a cathedral, a basilica, or an ermita? From humble chapels tucked into cliff faces to awe striking cathedrals that declared a city’s power, we will trace the architecture, the titles, the rituals, and the politics that turned simple worship spaces into symbols of pilgrimage, prestige, and yes, the occasional palace sized ego!We’ll stroll through time, Roman foundations, medieval firestorms of reform, Renaissance showmanship, Baroque theatricality and pull apart the real reasons, a place gets called a basilica versus when a bishop sits in a cathedral’schair. You’ll meet the hermits who birthed ermitas on lonely crags, the popes who handed out basilica status like royal favours, and the clever civic leaders who built cathedrals to put their town on the map. Expect human stories: miracles, rivalries, secret chapels, and the odd scandal that reshaped whole neighbourhoods.Are you a curious traveler planning your next Spanish loop?Do you love a good origin story? Do you want to sound brilliant at church tours? This episode is for you. We’ll give you the quick ID points how to spot a cathedral from a basilica in under thirty seconds plus the cultural context that makes every stone matter.Tune in, subscribe, and share because these buildings don’t just hold prayers, they hold the history of us. Now let’s walk inside and listen to the stones.See you next week!

Hey Chicos,It’s Jorge and Fran from Spanish Loops, and today we are rolling out a blockbuster: The life, grit, and legacy of Bernardo de Gálvez. The Spanish powerhouse who helped to shape the early United States. If you’ve heard the Revolution told only through Boston and Philadelphia, buckle up. We’re headingsouth to New Orleans, the Mississippi, and Pensacola, where Gálvez played chess while others played checkers.This episode gets into bold raids on British forts, secret supply lines down the Mississippi, and a swagger filled amphibious assault that flipped the Gulf Coast map. Gálvez wasn’t background noise, he was a headline. Governor of Louisiana, field commander, strategist, and the guy whose “Yo Solo” spirit turned the tide when cannons and courage had to speak louder than politics.We will connect dots the textbooks gloss over: Spain’s money, muskets, and ships; diverse regiments of free Black soldiers, Indigenous allies, Canary Islanders, and criollos; and a victory at Pensacola that slammed the southern door onBritish plans.We’ll also track Gálvez’s fingerprints on American trade, thebirth of the Gulf Port network, and why his portrait hangs in the U.S. Capitol today.So hit follow, drop a review, and share this with the history buff who swears they have “heard it all.” You haven’t, not like this. Ready? Press play and let’s loop the past into your present with the story of Bernardo de Gálvez,  the underrated architect of American Independence. And hey, if you’re watching on YouTube, tap subscribe and bell. On Instagram, save this episode, share, and tag a friend who loves surprising history.See you soon!

Hola Amigos and welcome back to the show. We are Fran and Jorge and today we are opening a chapter that Spain still feels in its bones: ETA. How a clandestine group turned terror into a political gambit, shaking streets from San Sebastián to Madrid and beyond.We will rewind to the last breath of Franco’s dictatorship, when the country was brittle, fearful, and ripe for sparks. ETA stepped in with bombs and bullets, targeting civilians, cops, judges, politicians or/and anyone they thoughtsymbolized the State.And the Basque Country wasn’t the only stage. The pain traveled. Families across Spain learned what it means to glance under the car, change routines, and live with apermanent “side eye” on the world.But here’s the twist: decades later, the gunfire started to fade and speeches got louder.A pivot from underground violence to ballot boxes, from fear to messaging. Did politics tame the beast, or just shift the battlefield?We are not here to sensationalize. We’re here to humanize survivors, negotiators, journalists, and everyday people who carried keys, memories, and grief. We’ll unpack ceasefires, crackdowns, and the slow grind of reconciliation.Expect sharp context, clear timelines, and no romantic myths. Just facts, voices, and the uncomfortable questions: What makes a movement abandon terror? What helps ademocracy heal without forgetting?Stick around. By the end, you will have a cleaner map of how Spain moved from sirens to debates and why old echoes still are bouncing around today.This is Spanish Loops, hit follow, rate the show, and let’s begin.

Hello friends, and welcome back to Spanish Loops, your go to podcast for cultural lessons into Spain’s rich history and how it shapes our modern life.In today’s episode, we rewind to the early days of Spanish television. A time when TV meant black and white screens, rabbit ear antennas, and a strong dose of hope.Under Franco’s dictatorship, television broadcasting wasn’t just limited. It was a bold act of state control, with RTVE (Radio Televisión Española) holding the reins of what could and could not be aired.But from these restricted beginnings, something magical grew. We will walk you through the pioneering moments of TVE, the country’s first state run channel, and trace its evolution into the colourful, diverse Spanish media landscape we know today.We will also talk about the game changing arrival of private Spanish TV channels in the 1990s, like Antena 3 and Telecinco, and how they changed everything: from programming styles to viewer freedom. Fast forward to the present, where streaming services in Spain offer an a la carte TV experience tailored to every taste.And yes, Fran and I share heartfelt memories of their first TV sets at home remembering those magical moments of gathering around the screen, eyes wide open.Let’s tune in together to this podcast for a small dose of nostalgia and technology.Subscribe and share!

Hola! Welcome back to Spanish Loops, your weekly dose of Spain with a twist and today, we're diving c*j*nes first into the spicy world of Spanish expressions!Yes, you heard right. This week’s episode is all about that one bold, magical, untranslatable word: c*j*nes. It’s not just anatomy, my friends: it’s attitude, emotion, frustration, pride… even surprise! Depending on the context, c*j*nes can either offend your abuela or crack you up laughing.We’ll break down how Spaniards sprinkle this word into daily speech like a seasoning. From ¡me importa un c*j*n! to ¡tiene un par de c*j*nes!, we’re translating these colorful expressions into English, while keeping the flavor intact. Warning: some phrases might make your English teacher blush but hey, culture isn’t always PG, right?So, buckle up for a language ride where words carry…, well, weight. If you are a language curious, a traveler, or just someone who appreciates a darn good expression, this episode will leave you saying, “¡Qué c*j*nes!” New episode out now. Only on Spanish Loops. Subscribe, share… and bring a laugh with you!

Hola! And welcome back to another episode of Spanish Loops where we get deep into the heart of Spanish culture, history, and the untold stories behind the landmarks youthought you knew.This week, we are heading off the beaten path (again), and it’s worth it. Right in the heart of Madrid, just a stone’s throw from the Prado and the Reina Sofía Museums, lies one of the city’s most overlooked treasures: the National Archaeological Museum, also known as The MAN. A true hidden gem in Madrid for history lovers and fans of ancient Spanish art.Now don’t let the name fool you, this isn’t just any museum with dusty old relics. The MAN, (standing for National Archaeological Museum) is home to one of the most stunning pieces of Iberian sculpture ever discovered: the iconic Dama de Elche.With haunting eyes and intricate detail, it’s not just the star of the museum. It’s a window into the prehistoric art of the Iberian Peninsula.But that’s not all. Inside these walls, you’ll discover a treasure bunch of pre-Roman artifacts, along with objects from the Romans, Visigoths, and Moors. If you are into Spanish archaeology, cultural tourism in Spain, or looking for underrated museums in Madrid, this one is for you. So, grab your headphones, hit play, and let’s explore the archaeological treasures of Spain. As usual on Spanish Loops. Subscribe for more!

Hello, hello, and welcome back to Spanish Loops! Your weekly journey into the heart of Spain’s living culture! And this week we’re going high… literally! Today, we are heading to Catalonia to explore one of the most breath taking, gravity defying traditions in all of Spain: Los Castellers. These human towers, real people climbing on top of each other up to ten stories high, have been rising into the skies of Catalonia for over two centuries. And believe us, they are so much more than just a show.We will dig into the history of this daring practice, tracing it all the way back to the 18th century. We'll talk about the colles castelleres, the passionate local teams who train year around, the deep sense of community and trust, and of course what it feels like to be at the top of a human tower with thousandscheering you on.That is why the Castellers have become a UNESCO recognized tradition, and why, even today, these towers symbolize unity, strength, and balance in every sense of the word.So, buckle up, stay grounded, and get ready to look up… way up. This is Spanish Loops, and we are climbing into Catalonia’s cultural heartbeat… one tier at a time.Do not forget to subscribe and share!!

Hola Chicos and welcome back to Spanish Loops! You’re tuning in to a brand new episode that will take you straight into the heart of Spanish culture by exploring four “must read” books that reveal the soul of Spain. From street smarts to epic ideals, and its wounds through history and memory. Stick around as we are unpacking everything. -Lazarillo de Tormes.The original Spanish picaresque: funny, edgy, and sharp. It's about a little hustler surviving by his wits. You will feel the cheeky humour that threads through Spain’s cultural DNA. -Don Quijote de la Mancha.The granddaddy of duels and daydreams. Idealism vs. reality, chivalry vs. windmills. It captures Spain’s passionate spirit, its hope “even when the world says no”, with a very good dose of laughter and heart. -Los Santos Inocentes.Rural Spain laid bare. This one dig deep into social class, injustice, and quiet dignity.You’ll see how struggle and resilience are weaves into community life and how power plays out when nobody is watching. -PatriaModern Spain through the Basque Country’s turbulent and recent past. A powerful, personal, political journey into how history, violence, and family shape identity and how past wounds still echo today. Together, these four novels form a panoramic portrait of Spanish society: sly humour, bold idealism, social tension, and historical memory. They show attitudes, behaviour patterns, and emotional scars that define Spain.Whether you’re learning Spanish, exploring another culture, or building your reading list with deep, meaningful stories, this episode will track you understand Spain’s core.Catch you inside the loop. Let’s read, reflect, and root ourselves in Spain. Subscribe and share wherever you listen and don’t miss an episode. Hit that follow, leave a review, and turn on notifications to stay in the loop.See you next week!

Hola Spanish Loops family! Welcome back to another fresh chapter of your favourite culture packed podcast. This week, we touch something that’s as authentically Madrileño as churros con chocolate. El Rastro!If you’ve ever been to Madrid on a Sunday morning, chances are you have wandered into this colourful, chaotic, and absolutely magical street market. But El Rastro is more than just a flea market; It’s a living, breathing tradition that’s been part of the city since the 15th century! That’s right amigos, we’re talking of  centuries of bartering, bargaining, and treasure hunting.In this episode, we’ll stroll through the winding streets of the La Latina neighbourhood, where El Rastro takes over every Sunday, rain or shine. You’ll hear about its humble origins tied to the leather trade, and how it evolved into one of the most iconic open air markets in Europe. From antique furniture and vintage vinyl disks, to random oddities and hidden gems, this place is a wonderland for collectors and curious souls.But El Rastro isn’t just about what you can buy... It's about the "vibe".  Street musicians, the scent of food taverns in the air, friendly chatter, spontaneous laughter..., it’s all part of the experience.So tune in, and let’s take a virtual walk through Madrid’s most legendary Sunday ritual. And who knows… maybe you’ll be inspired to visit and find your own little jewel in the crowd.Let’s loop it up. It is Spanish Loops time!

Hola Loopers, and welcome back to another exciting chapter of Spanish Loops! Today we bring you a special episode that blends royalty, history, and the future of Spain. All in one powerful loop!Today, we shift our spotlight to none other than Her Royal Highness Princess Leonor of Spain, the next in line to the Spanish throne, and what a journey she is riding! From her early days in the royal spotlight to her collected appearances at official state events, Leonor is not just a princess in name, she is steadily growing into the role of “Queen in waiting”. And in this episode, we go into her life story: where she has been, what she’s learning, and how Spain is preparing her for the great responsibility that lies ahead.We explore her rigorous academic path, her training at the military academy, and how tradition meets modernity in the shaping of a 21st century Monarch.You’ll hear about the symbolism, the subtle protocol schedule, and her increasing presence in national and international affairs.If you like royalty, traveling, or just love a good story about legacy and transformation, this episode is for you.Buckle up amigos, we are peeling back the royal curtain and taking a close, insightful look at the making of Queen Leonor, Spain’s future, shaped today.Don’t forget to subscribe, loop us in, and as always, Hasta luego!

Hello Loopers, welcome back to the Spanish Loops podcast! This week we touch a piece of story that smells like cinnamon, sounds like conquest and feels like the turning of an empire.In this week's episode, we are blending a heady mix of spices, power and destiny. We'll explore how the obsession with exotic spices fired up massive changes across the globe and how this connects into the rise of the Catholic Monarchs, the fall of the last Arab Kingdom in Spain, Granada, and a certain sailor you may have heard of: Christopher Columbus.Want more...?We’re also bringing to light a lesser known but fascinating figure: Toribio de la Vega. Who was Toribio and why his role was so important in the scene of post Reconquista Spain? And how did he end up connected to the sweeping global shifts of the 15th century?You’ll want to hear how all these threads: spices, politics, faith, and fortune, loop together in ways that changed the world forever.Get comfy and join us for a journey into the heart of a history that still shapes us today.Enjoy and subscribe for more!

Hello and welcome back to Spanish Loops! Today, we discover to you one of Madrid’s best kept cultural treasures: The Royal Tapestry Factory (Real Fábrica de Tapices).Founded in 1721 under the reign of King Philip V, this iconic institution has stood the test of time for over 300 years. What began as a royal initiative to enrich Royal Palaces with exquisite tapestries, soon became a cornerstone of Spanishcraftsmanship and artistic excellence. Few people realize just how deeply rooted the factory is in the country's heritage, and how vibrantly alive is still today.One of the most fascinating chapters in its history involves the great Francisco de Goya, who created a series of tapestry cartoons in the late 18th century. These works, filled with everyday scenes of Spanish life at the time, were later transformed into large scale tapestries by master weavers. Goya's time at the factory not only influenced his artistic development but also contributed to the unique blend of art and utility that the factory represents.Today, the Royal Tapestry Factory continues to operate, specializing in the restoration of historical textiles and the creation of new, custom made pieces using traditional techniques. It’s not just a museum, it’s a living and working atelier that preserves centuries of knowledge. Guided tours offer a close look at the looms, artists, and intricate process behind each masterpiece.So, if you're visiting Madrid and looking for something truly authentic and off the beaten path, this hidden gem is a must see!Right here, on Spanish Loops!

Ladies, gentlemen, and podcast lovers across the world, welcome back to your favourite weekly program into Spanish culture! That’s right, it’s time for another episode of Spanish Loops!In today's episode, you’re in for a treat. Francisco and Jorge are tipping their hats, literally and figuratively, as they unravel one of Spain’s most surprising cultural treasures. We’re talking about... headwear! From ancient head coverings carved into prehistoric sculptures to the elegant, dramatic flair of a bullfighter’s montera... from religious processions to vibrant festive traditions... This episode lifts the linen on history, the rules, the rituals, and also the fashion of Spanish headwear.It’s not just about looking good. There are centuries old protocols, surprising stories, and rich symbolism all hidden in the folds of felt and fabric.Whether it’s obligation, tradition, or style, our hosts have you covered, pun totally intended.So join Fran and Jorge as they pull back the curtain on this fascinating world where heritage meets headgear. Trust us..., you’ll never look at a hat the same way again.And hey , don’t forget to subscribe, so you never miss a loop!

Hola Loopers!We’re back with another brand-new episode and this one It’s gonna save your wallet… literally.Travel has become part of our everyday lives. From jaw-dropping monuments to world-class museums, there's a whole planet out there waiting to be explored. But wherever there are crowds and cameras, you’ll also find… pickpockets. Yep, the sneaky side of travel nobody talks about enough.In our years as tour guides, we’ve developed what you might call a sixth sense for spotting those slippery hands. We've seen it all—from almost magical sleight-of-hand tricks to wild, unbelievable distractions that feel straight out of a movie. If we hadn’t witnessed them ourselves, we wouldn’t believe it either.In this episode, we’re sharing easy, practical tips to help you travel the world without worrying about losing your wallet, phone, or passport. No stress, just smart moves, things you can start doing today.And here’s the thing: most of the time, all it takes is being just as alert as you are at home.So, tune in for some stories, a few laughs, and helpful advice straight from the heart.The goal? Enjoy every second of your trip without that shadow of worry.Travel smart. Stay aware. And most importantly, have fun!Because life’s too short to be paranoid… but just long enough to be prepared.Listen now—only on Spanish Loops!

A profound silence has fallen across the world today as Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Catholic Church, has passed away. In his final months, his health visibly declined, bringing an end to a papacy marked by transformation, compassion, andbold leadership.Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, his path to the Vatican was anything but traditional. Entering religious life later than most, he brought a unique worldview forged from years of real world experience. From his first days as pope, he broke with convention, bypassing lavish tradition for humility, dialogue, and reform.Pope Francis’s legacy is undeniable. He spoke openly about climate change, inequality, and the need for inclusivity within the Church. He reached across borders: geographic, ideological, and spiritual, to build bridges and heal wounds. His papacy has left a lasting impact not only on the Church but on global consciousness.In today’s special episode of the Spanish Loops, Fran and I reflect on this monumental figure. With reverence and depth, we explore his life, unexpected path into the Church, and the institutional transformations he inspired. This episode also poses essential questions: Will his reforms hold? Who will lead next?Fran and myself, like millions around the world, hoped this reflection would not come so soon. But death, inevitable and indifferent, reminds us of the finite nature of human legacy, even one as vast as Pope Francis’s.His deep spirituality, love for the marginalized, and vision for a modern Church will continue to be studied, debated, and cherished for generations. As we grieve, we also give thanks to a leader who dared to change, to question, and to love beyond tradition.Rest now, Pope Francis. Your voice may be gone, but your words will always echo.

What’s up, Loopers?? It’s your favorite voices in your earbuds, and we’ve got some spicy news for you this week! We just dropped a brand new episode of Spanish Loops, and let me tell you, this one’s got rhythm, soul, and a whole lot of passion.We're diving much into the History of Flamenco, and who better to guide us than Ana, our amazing guest who lives and breathes this art form. Ana’s a professional flamenco dancer at Las Carboneras, one of the top tablaos in Madrid. Yeah, the real deal! Born in Australia to Spanish immigrant parents, she’s been holding tight to her roots ever since she could walk, and flamenco has been her heartbeat since day one.In this episode, Ana opens up about her journey, how she found her way from Down Under to the heart of Spain, and what flamenco means to her. She breaks down the history, the cultural fusion that shaped the dance over the centuries, and even gives us an exclusive behind-the-scenes peek at how a flamenco night really comes together. From tuning guitars to last-minute choreography tweaks... it's electric.So grab your headphones, hit that play button, and get ready to feel the duende. You don’t wanna miss this one.Catch it now—only on Spanish Loops! Find us in Youtube!!

Spain is a country where coffee isn’t just a drink, it’s a way of life. But if you think ordering a simple “coffee” will get you what you want, think again. Every region has its own way of serving that perfect cup, and today on Spanish Loops, we immerse you into the rich world of Spanish coffee culture.From the classic café solo (a strong espresso) to the creamy café con leche, knowing what to ask for is key. But what happens when you visit Málaga? There, coffee ordering reaches an entirely new level of precision. Want your coffee with just a splash of milk? Ask for a sombra. Prefer more milk than coffee? That’s a nube. And if you want the perfect balance, go for a mitad. The locals have perfected the art of customization, and by the end of this episode, so will you.Join us as we break down the different types of coffee, regional variations, and tips on how to sound like a pro when ordering. Whether you’re visiting Spain for the first time or just want to level up your coffee game, this episode is for you. Grab your cup, hit play, and let’s talk coffee!

Hola amigos!, welcome back to Spanish Loops! Today, we're digging into the life of Miguel Servet, a 16th-century Spanish polymath. Born around 1511 in Villanueva de Sigena, Aragon, Servet was a theologian, physician, and humanist. He had a knack for languages, mastering Latin, Greek, and Hebrew early on. His academic journey took him to Toulouse for law and later to Paris for medicine.​Servet's medical insights were groundbreaking. He was among the first Europeans to describe pulmonary circulation, detailing how blood moves from the heart to the lungs and back—a revelation that challenged existing beliefs.​But it was his theological views that stirred the pot. In works like "De Trinitatis Erroribus" (1531), he questioned the concept of the Trinity, ruffling feathers in both Catholic and Protestant circles. Facing backlash, he adopted the pseudonym Michel de Villeneuve and relocated to France.In 1553, Servet published "Christianismi Restitutio," further challenging mainstream theology and including his findings on blood circulation. This led to his arrest and trial in Geneva, where, under John Calvin's influence, he was condemned for heresy and burned at the stake on October 27, 1553.​Servet's legacy is profound, influencing religious tolerance debates and advancing medical science.That's it for today's episode on Miguel Servet. Stay curious, and keep looping in!

Hola Spanish Loopers! We’ve got a brand new episode dropping, and trust us, you do NOT want to miss this one.March is all about celebrating the power, resilience, and brilliance of women, and we’re taking this opportunity to spotlight some incredible women from Spain who are making waves across the globe.From shaping world economics to commanding royal influence and dominating the entertainment industry, these powerhouse women are rewriting the rules and inspiring generations. Whether they're running major corporations, influencing global policies, or captivating audiences worldwide, their impact is undeniable.In this episode, we look into their journeys, struggles, and successes. We’re talking about the challenges they’ve faced and the legacies they’re building.Get ready for some eye-opening insights, inspiring stories, and a whole lot of admiration.So, if you’re all about celebrating ground breakers, empowerment, and Spanish excellence, hit that play button and join us for this special tribute. Let’s give these extraordinary women the recognition they deserve!Don’t forget to subscribe, share and enjoy!

Hey everyone, and welcome to a brand-new episode! This week, we're diving very deep into the shifting global panorama, analysing the latest moves from the Russian government, the new dynamics in the White House, and how Europe is responding to these ongoing challenges.First up, the concept of a unified European army takes centre stage. With the U.S. adopting a more reserved stance on international engagements, Europe is moving towards strengthening its own defence mechanisms. The challenge lies in whether a coalition of European nations can develop military capabilities comparable to those traditionally supported by the U.S.Next, Europe's efforts to reduce dependency on Chinese communications components continue to gain power.In an era where data is the new gold, securing independent communication channels has become a big priority. The transition is very challenging, requires strategic planning and a lot of investment to ensure stability and security.We'll also discuss the buzz around Norway's potential EU membership. With its substantial oil reserves, Norway's entry could reshape the EU's energy landscape. But what does this mean for other member countries and the wider geopolitical balance? Ukraine remains central in global politics. Despite halted U.S. military aid, its forces resist Russian advances. The impact of this suspension shapes the region's future.The Middle East, always in flux, feels the effects of shifting global dynamics.Join us for this insightful discussion, where we peel back the layers of these pressing issues and offer our humble perspectives.Don't miss out!